Soni FM Radio

07/06/2026

*Barrow Appeals for Patience as Government Battles Deepening Power Crisis*

President Adama Barrow has called on Gambians to remain patient amid the country's worsening electricity crisis, assuring citizens that his government is working tirelessly to restore stable power supply as widespread outages continue to affect homes, businesses, schools, and health facilities.
In his first public remarks on the issue, the President acknowledged the growing frustration among citizens and described electricity as a matter of national security, underscoring the government's commitment to resolving the crisis.
For several weeks, frequent and prolonged power cuts have disrupted daily life across the country. Small businesses have reported significant losses, students preparing for national examinations have struggled to study, and healthcare facilities have faced challenges in maintaining essential services. Many households have also been forced to endure long, uncomfortable nights without electricity.
Addressing the nation, President Barrow said the government fully understands the difficulties being experienced by the public and is treating the matter with urgency.
"We are concerned with electricity. We consider it a national security force," he said. "That is why we are doing everything possible to restore stable electricity in this country."
The President noted that The Gambia had enjoyed nearly two years of relatively reliable electricity supply before the current disruptions emerged.
"Good news is no news," he remarked, suggesting that the stability previously enjoyed had become largely unnoticed until recent technical challenges interrupted the supply.
According to President Barrow, the crisis is largely the result of technical difficulties that require time, expertise, and significant investment to address. He disclosed that the government is working closely with regional partners, including Senegal and Guinea, to stabilize the country's electricity network.

07/06/2026

*Sonko Unanimously Elected PASTEF President at Historic First Congress*

Senegalese Prime Minister and opposition figure Ousmane Sonko was unanimously elected president of PASTEF-Les Patriotes on Saturday during the party's first-ever Congress, a milestone event that underscored its growing political influence and internal unity.
The Congress, held at the Abdou Diouf International Conference Center, brought together more than 2,000 supporters and party members from across Senegal. Of the attendees, 1,200 accredited delegates participated in the vote, with Sonko receiving 100 percent of the ballots cast.
According to a statement issued by the party, delegates and senior officials expressed complete confidence in Sonko's leadership and reaffirmed their commitment to the movement's founding ideals.
"Party leaders and coordinators expressed their full confidence in President Ousmane Sonko, praising his leadership and his unwavering commitment to PASTEF's ideals and principles," the statement said.
The unanimous vote is widely seen as a demonstration of strong internal cohesion within PASTEF as the party prepares for future political contests, including the 2027 local elections. Delegates also used the gathering to discuss strategies aimed at strengthening grassroots structures and expanding the party's presence nationwide.
Party officials said the outcome reflects a shared determination to confront future political challenges while remaining faithful to the movement's vision for Senegal.
"Through this consensus, PASTEF demonstrates its unity and determination to meet the political challenges ahead, while upholding its founding values and ambitions for Senegal," the statement added.
Sonko's election comes at a significant moment in Senegalese politics. The popular political figure, known for his strong support among young voters and calls for institutional reform, is expected to lead efforts to further organize the party and enhance its electoral preparedness.

08/05/2026

Police Investigate Two Separate Serious Bodily Harm Incidents in Brikama and Kwinella, Urge Public to Refrain from Taking the Law into Their Own Hands

The The Gambia Police Force has informed the general public of two separate incidents involving serious bodily harm reported on Friday in Brikama and Kwinella.
According to the police, both matters are currently under active investigation as authorities work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incidents.
In a statement issued to the public, the police expressed serious concern over the increasing tendency of some individuals to resort to violence and take the law into their own hands in the course of resolving disputes and misunderstandings.
The police emphasized that all grievances and conflicts should be addressed through lawful and appropriate channels, warning that acts of violence often lead to severe, life threatening, and irreversible consequences for victims, perpetrators, and entire communities.
The The Gambia Police Force further urged members of the public to exercise maximum restraint, uphold the rule of law, and promptly report all criminal matters and disputes to the nearest police station for proper intervention and legal action.
Authorities also reaffirmed their commitment to protecting lives and property and assured the public that all persons found culpable in connection with the incidents would be dealt with in accordance with the laws of The Gambia.

02/04/2026

*_Over 700 Migrants Depart The Gambia in Single Night Amid Uncertainty_*

A significant wave of irregular migration has been reported in The Gambia, as four boats carrying over seven hundred individuals departed the country on the night of March 29, 2026, bound for the Canary Islands in Spain.
According to information gathered from family members and local sources, two of the boats set off from Tanji, while one departed from Kartong and another from Gunjur. The departures, which reportedly occurred within the same night, highlight the growing desperation among youths seeking better opportunities abroad.
Family members of those onboard have expressed deep concern over the safety of their loved ones, noting that communication has been lost since the boats left Gambian shores. Efforts to establish contact have so far proven unsuccessful, leaving many in a state of anxiety and uncertainty.
Sources familiar with the situation indicate that sea conditions along the route to the Canary Islands are currently unfavorable, raising fears about the safety of the migrants on the overcrowded vessels. The Atlantic crossing, widely regarded as one of the most dangerous migration routes in the world, has claimed numerous lives in recent years.
As of the time of reporting, the exact whereabouts of the four boats remain unknown. Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the departures or any ongoing search and rescue efforts.
The incident underscores the persistent challenge of irregular migration in The Gambia and the wider West African region, where economic hardship and limited opportunities continue to drive many, particularly young people, to embark on perilous journeys in search of a better future.
Families and communities across the affected areas continue to hold onto hope, praying for the safe arrival of their loved ones despite the uncertainty surrounding their journey.

02/04/2026

02/04/2026

released of Ousainou Bojang and his sister Amie Bojang

02/04/2026

📰 *NEWS REPORT*

*Headline* : *_GBA Condemns Re Arrest of Bojang Siblings Warns Against Erosion of Rule of Law_*

*Banjul The Gambia April 1 2026*

In a dramatic development captured in a widely circulated social media video armed police officers in full riot gear forcibly escorted Ousainou Bojang and his sister Amie Bojang into custody moments after their release from the Mile II Central Prison.
The siblings were swiftly taken away in a marked white police pickup truck and transported to the headquarters of the Gambia Police Force before being returned to Mile II Prison. According to the Gambia Bar Association GBA this re arrest occurred without any fresh court order raising serious legal and constitutional concerns.
In a strongly worded statement dated April 1 the GBA condemned the police action describing it as a troubling echo of past authoritarian practices
“The conduct of the police is a stark reminder of the Jammeh era practice of re arresting individuals acquitted by competent courts” the association stated. “It reflects a disturbing disregard for human rights and the rule of law”
The association warned that such actions risk reversing the democratic progress achieved since the political transition of 2017. It emphasized that respect for judicial decisions remains a cornerstone of any functioning democracy.
While confirming that Ousainou and Amie Bojang have since been released the GBA issued firm cautions to key state institutions. It called on the Attorney General and Minister of Justice who also serves as the leader of the Bar to ensure that no individual is detained without lawful judicial authorization.
Additionally the association demanded accountability from the Inspector General of Police under whose command the re arrest was executed.
“Security and justice sector reforms must be prioritized” the statement stressed urging immediate steps to prevent future violations of constitutionally guaranteed rights.

20/03/2026

*_Kombo Pirang Celebrates Koriteh Eid Al-Fitr with Elders’ Guidance and IGP Seedy Mucktar Touray in Attendance_*

Kombo Pirang joined communities across The Gambia in observing the Koriteh Eid Al-Fitr prayers, marking the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan with devotion, unity, and festivity. The celebrations were conducted under the guidance of the Gambia Supreme Islamic Council, led by Sheikh Essa Darboe, and drew worshippers from near and far, reflecting the enduring cultural and religious significance of Eid Al-Fitr in Gambian society.
In Kombo Pirang, the morning of Eid began with village elders gathering worshippers at central locations to offer advice and guidance. They encouraged young people and adults alike to uphold the values of honesty, patience, unity, and social responsibility, emphasizing that the spirit of Ramadan generosity, empathy, and communal solidarity should continue throughout the year. Their words were met with deep respect, as congregants listened attentively before proceeding to the main prayer grounds.
The Eid prayer drew a large turnout, with families arriving in colorful traditional attire, greeting one another warmly with “Eid Mubarak,” and carrying prayer mats and baskets of food to share with neighbors. Children’s laughter echoed across the gathering as elders and community leaders organized the crowd to ensure orderly prayers.
Adding to the significance of the event, the Inspector General of The Gambia Police Force, Seedy Mucktar Touray, attended the Eid prayers in his native village of Pirang. His presence was warmly welcomed by the community, highlighting the importance of national leaders participating in local and religious gatherings. He joined the congregants in prayer, offered greetings and blessings, and later commended the villagers for their devotion and commitment to peace and unity.
Sheikh Essa Darboe delivered a heartfelt sermon emphasizing unity, compassion, and social responsibility, urging worshippers to carry the charity, patience, and community spirit cultivated during Ramadan into daily life. He reminded the faithful that Eid Al-Fitr is not only a day of celebration but also a time to strengthen communal bonds and support the less fortunate.
The prayers were accompanied by traditional Islamic recitations and collective supplications, creating a solemn yet uplifting atmosphere. Observers noted the strong sense of togetherness and reverence as the entire community moved as one in devotion. Similar gatherings were reported across towns and villages throughout The Gambia, highlighting the nationwide participation in this significant religious festival.
Essa B. Ceesay, reporting for Soni FM Radio and its online TV platform, described the Eid celebrations in Kombo Pirang as a vibrant display of faith, culture, and communal harmony, capturing the spirit of a day that unites Gambians in worship, reflection, and festivity.

20/03/2026

*_Lamin Fatty Launches CRARPS to Strengthen Child Protection in The Gambia_*

A seasoned child rights advocate, Lamin Fatty, has established a new nonprofit organisation aimed at addressing gaps in child protection and welfare systems across The Gambia.
The organisation, Child Rights Advocacy, Research and Protection Services (CRARPS), is set to operate through a comprehensive framework focusing on advocacy, research, capacity building, and direct protection services for vulnerable children.
Fatty, who previously served as National Coordinator of the Child Protection Alliance (CPA), brings over two decades of experience in child protection and international development. During his tenure, he played a significant role in shaping national policies and leading campaigns against harmful practices such as Female Ge***al Mutilation (FGM) and child marriage.
According to him, CRARPS will adopt an evidence-based approach to strengthen child welfare systems and support the effective implementation of international and regional child rights frameworks, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC).
In a statement, Fatty described the initiative as a major milestone in his lifelong commitment to safeguarding children’s rights.
“This is a pivotal chapter in my lifelong commitment. By combining advocacy with research, capacity building, and direct services, CRARPS will help ensure every Gambian child thrives in safety and dignity,” he said.
The launch of CRARPS comes at a time when child protection challenges persist in the country, particularly in areas such as child labour, street begging, and sexual exploitation.
The organisation is expected to work closely with government institutions, civil society organisations, and international partners to enhance the protection and welfare of children nationwide.

04/03/2026

The Breakfast Show Episode 1 out now

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