The Alkamba Times

01/01/2026

Kanifing General Hospital Achieves Historic First Neurosurgical Operation

Kanifing General Hospital (KGH) has marked a landmark achievement in Gambian healthcare by successfully performing its inaugural neurosurgical procedure.

The patient, an adult male who suffered a depressed skull fracture and acute epidural hematoma following a road traffic accident, underwent emergency surgery. The skilled team, led by neurosurgeon Dr. Lamin Janneh, elevated the fractured skull and evacuated the hematoma, effectively relieving dangerous pressure on the brain and restoring normal function.

This milestone extends beyond one life saved—it highlights the critical value of investing in local specialist capacity. By strengthening tertiary facilities like KGH, the healthcare system can ease the burden on the overburdened Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH), broaden access to life-saving interventions, and improve outcomes for patients nationwide.

KGH Management praised Dr. Janneh and the surgical team, wishing the patient a speedy recovery.

01/01/2026

Gambia Navy Launches Urgent Rescue for Migrant Boat in Distress Off Jinnack Island

The Gambia Navy is actively conducting a rescue operation for a migrant boat reported to be in distress near Jinnack Island, following its departure from the coastal village of Jinnack on Tuesday morning.

The vessel, carrying hundreds of passengers including women and children attempting the perilous "backway" route to Europe, sent distress signals shortly after setting off.

According to updates from migrant rights activist Ebrima Drammeh of the Ebrima Migrants Situation Foundation, his team maintains direct contact with naval authorities.

Two high-speed patrol boats have been deployed to the area to locate and assist the overcrowded pirogue. The exact nature of the distress—whether engine failure, overloading, or rough seas—remains unconfirmed, but concerns are mounting for the passengers' safety amid challenging Atlantic conditions.

This incident highlights the ongoing risks of irregular migration from Gambia's North Bank Region, a known departure point. Authorities urge communities to discourage such journeys, emphasizing the dangers involved.

The operation is ongoing, with further details expected as the navy reaches the site. This is a developing story.

01/01/2026

Happy New Year 2026!

12/31/2025

Guinea's Junta Leader Mamadi Doumbouya Wins Landslide Victory in Presidential Election

Guinea's military junta leader, General Mamadi Doumbouya, has secured a resounding first-round victory in the country's presidential election, capturing 86.72% of the vote according to provisional results announced late Tuesday by the General Directorate of Elections.

The election, held on December 28, marked Guinea's first since Doumbouya's 2021 coup that ousted President Alpha Condé. With an absolute majority, Doumbouya avoids a runoff and claims a seven-year mandate, formalizing the transition to civilian rule in the mineral-rich West African nation.

Official turnout was reported at 80.95% among 6.7 million registered voters. Doumbouya faced eight challengers in a fragmented field, with Abdoulaye Yero Baldé of the Democratic Front of Guinea placing second at around 6.6%, followed by Faya Lansana Millimono of the Liberal Bloc with 2%.

The results were widely anticipated after key opposition figures, including former President Condé and longtime rival Cellou Dalein Diallo, remained in exile. Several prominent candidates were disqualified, and major opposition parties were sidelined.

Critics, including civil society groups and exiled leaders, denounced the vote as an "electoral charade," citing restrictions on protests, media freedom, and political activity. Opposition candidates alleged irregularities such as ballot stuffing and observer expulsions. Social media platforms were restricted during the results wait, drawing accusations of stifling dissent.

Doumbouya, 41, initially pledged not to run but became eligible after a September referendum approved a new constitution lifting bans on junta members contesting elections and extending presidential terms.

Supporters credit Doumbouya with advancing resource nationalism, including launching the massive Simandou iron ore project and revoking foreign mining licenses to boost state control. Guinea holds the world's largest bauxite reserves.

The Supreme Court has eight days to validate the provisional results amid potential challenges. Scenes of jubilation erupted in some areas following the announcement, though observers noted tepid participation in the capital, Conakry.

12/31/2025

Fireworks Light Up Bustling Streets of Senegambia Strip as Gambians Gather to Welcome New Year in Grand Style

12/31/2025

Fireworks Light Up Bustling Streets of Senegambia Strip as Gambians Gather to Welcome New Year in Grand Style

Brilliant bursts of fireworks illuminated the night sky over the vibrant Senegambia Strip tonight as thousands of Gambians and visitors alike gathered to bid farewell to 2025 and usher in the new year with unbridled joy and celebration.

The iconic tourism hub in Kololi transformed into a sea of color, music, and laughter as revellers packed the streets, hotels, bars, and beachfront venues for one of the country's most anticipated New Year's Eve festivities. From early evening, families, friends, and tourists began converging on the strip, drawn by live performances, traditional drumming, and the infectious energy that defines Gambian hospitality.

As midnight approached, the atmosphere reached fever pitch. Popular local artists and DJs kept the crowds dancing, while street vendors offered grilled meat, fresh juices, and festive treats. Hotels along the strip, including long-standing favorites like the Senegambia Beach Hotel and Kololi Beach Resort, hosted lavish countdown parties complete with champagne toasts and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

At the stroke of midnight, a spectacular fireworks display erupted over the coastline, painting the sky in dazzling reds, golds, and blues. Cheers erupted from the throng below as families embraced, couples shared kisses, and strangers exchanged warm New Year's greetings in a display of national unity and optimism.

"This is how we Gambians celebrate – with open hearts and big smiles," said Awa Touray, a Banjul resident who travelled to the strip with her family.

"No matter the challenges of the past year, tonight we come together to hope for peace, prosperity, and happiness in the year ahead."

Security was tight but discreet, with police and tourism officials ensuring the celebrations remained safe and orderly. Reports indicated a smooth evening with no major incidents, allowing everyone to focus on the joy of the moment.

As the fireworks faded and the first dawn of 2026 approached, many lingered on the beaches, reflecting on the year gone by and looking forward to new beginnings. For The Gambia's smiling coast, the Senegambia Strip once again proved why it remains the heartbeat of the nation's most memorable celebrations.

Happy New Year, Gambia!

12/31/2025

2026 New Year Eve coverage

12/31/2025

GEP Leader Saikou Sawo Ushers in 2026 with Call for Unity and Renewed Action

As The Gambia welcomes the new year, Saikou Sawo, leader of the Golden Era Party (GEP), has delivered an inspiring New Year message emphasizing unity, hard work, and people-centered leadership to drive national progress.

In his statement released earlier today, Sawo reflected on the opportunities that 2026 brings amid ongoing challenges, urging Gambians to seize the moment for collective advancement.

“A new year is here, and with it a fresh chance to do better for our people,” Sawo said. “The challenges are real, but so is our strength. Gambia deserves leadership that listens, acts, and delivers real opportunity at home.”

Highlighting GEP’s core values, the party leader stressed that true progress stems from putting citizens first. “At GEP, we believe progress comes from unity, hard work, and putting people first. The future will not build itself—we must build it together.”

Sawo’s message comes as the Golden Era Party gears up for the 2026 political landscape.

Sawo’s emphasis on homegrown opportunities and inclusive leadership resonates with growing calls for accountable governance in the country.

As fireworks light up the skies tonight, many Gambians are reflecting on the party leader’s words as a blueprint for the year to come.

12/31/2025

2026 New Year's Eve Coverage
We do not own the copyright to the music being played!

12/31/2025

First Lady of Kwara State Celebrates Lady Chile Sarr's Birthday Amid Nigerian Market Expansion

Lady Chile Sarr, the dynamic CEO and Publisher of Elegance Magazine Gambia, received warm birthday wishes from Her Excellency Ambassador Prof. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, the First Lady of Kwara State and Chairperson of the Nigeria Governors' Wives Forum.

The heartfelt message highlighted Sarr's remarkable contributions to media and women's empowerment across West Africa. As Elegance Magazine continues its strategic exploration of the Nigerian market, Sarr has been actively profiling prominent Nigerian politicians, business leaders, and influencers, showcasing their stories to a growing regional audience.

The birthday gesture underscores the strengthening ties between Gambian and Nigerian women in leadership. Sources close to Elegance Magazine say the Nigerian expansion is gaining momentum, with plans for exclusive features on influential figures in politics and commerce.

Lady Chile Sarr expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating it inspires her team's commitment to excellence in journalism and cross-border collaboration.

12/31/2025

Gambia Bans Unauthorized Drone Flights Over Key National Sites

The Ministry of Defence has issued a stern warning to the public, declaring that the operation of drones, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and any other aerial objects over critical national installations is strictly prohibited.

In a public notice released from Banjul, the ministry highlighted restricted areas including State House, Banjul International Airport, defence and security installations, as well as surrounding airspace. The ban is aimed at bolstering national security and complying with existing aviation and public safety laws.

"Any unauthorized aerial activity within or around these restricted areas is regarded as a serious security violation and shall attract serious consequences," the statement read.

The ministry emphasized that no individual, organization, or institution may operate drones or similar UAVs without explicit written authorization from the relevant authorities. Defence and security agencies have been directed to enforce the restriction and take decisive action against violators.

Public and private drone operators are urged to comply fully with the directive. The Ministry of Defence called for the cooperation of all citizens and residents to protect national security and ensure public safety.

12/31/2025

With 2026 designated as the year of the presidential election—scheduled for December 5—Barrow acknowledged the excitement but urged ethical politics, restraint, and zero tolerance for violence, enmity, disunity, or hate speech. He called on media and social content creators to promote shared Gambian values.

Despite achievements, Barrow candidly acknowledged lingering challenges: the pending new Constitution, uneven rainfall during the 2025 farming season, rising global prices driving the cost of living, youth unemployment, irregular migration, crime, and international conflicts in regions such as Palestine, Ukraine, and Sudan.

In his annual New Year’s address, President Adama Barrow expressed profound gratitude to the Almighty for the blessings of peace, stability, and progress as The Gambia transitions into 2026. Highlighting 2025 as a “historic year” marked by the jubilant celebration of 60 years of political inde...