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In a move to tighten workplace discipline and boost punctuality across government offices, the Minister of Public Service, Administrative Reforms, Policy Coordination, and Delivery, Honourable Baboucarr Bouy, made an unannounced visit to the Ministry of Youth and Sports on Tuesday afternoon. Joined by top officials—including Lamin F. Jawara (Permanent Secretary, PMO), Sheriff Jallow (PS for Reforms and Delivery), Essa Marong (Director of Performance Management), and Sulayman Ndow (Biometric Systems IT Officer)—the surprise visit aimed to assess staff attendance and time management habits. The team toured offices, engaged with staff, and reviewed biometric records to get a real-time view of staff punctuality and workplace discipline—a key part of the government’s push for stronger accountability across public institutions. “We came without notice to observe the reality on the ground,” said Minister Bouy. “Punctuality is not negotiable in the civil service it’s a core part of professionalism, and we are committed to enforcing it.” he said He called on all ministries to lead by example: “Discipline and dedication must be part of our daily routine.” Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie, Minister of Youth and Sports, welcomed the delegation and praised his team’s commitment. “Unlike other institutions, mobility is not an issue for us—and lateness isn’t a problem here,” he noted. “Our staff consistently show they’re serious about their work.” The visit reinforces government’s resolve to match policy with action and to ensure that discipline and accountability remain the foundation of effective service delivery.

The Seminar on Youth Entrepreneurship and Leadership for The Gambia, hosted in Beijing under the China-Aid initiative and organized by the Academy for International Business Officials (AIBO) under the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China (MOFCOM), officially concluded on Monday, July 21, 2025, with a grand closing ceremony, certificate presentation, and farewell luncheon. The two-week seminar brought together 30 dynamic Gambian youth leaders, selected by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, for an intensive program that combined academic sessions, field visits, and cultural exchange activities aimed at fostering entrepreneurship, leadership, and bilateral cooperation. In her heartfelt closing remarks, Mberry Jobe, Deputy Executive Director of the Gambia National Youth Council, expressed gratitude on behalf of the entire delegation, describing the experience as “unforgettable and transformative.” “This seminar significantly strengthened the friendship between China and The Gambia. The lectures, practical visits, and cultural exchanges have broadened our perspectives and deepened our commitment to national development,” she said. Jobe reflected on key moments from the program, including lectures on China’s political system, cross-border e-commerce, and poverty alleviation, along with visits to cultural landmarks such as the Great Wall, the Temple of Heaven, and the Hongqiao Pearl Market. The team also traveled to Harbin, where they toured the Digital Trade Industrial Park and the headquarters of Longjian Road and Bridge Co., Ltd.—the company behind the iconic bridge spanning the Gambia River. “We were particularly moved to witness Longjian’s role in our country’s infrastructure. It stands as a true symbol of the strong partnership between our two nations,” she added. Speaking at the closing ceremony, Mr. Wu Wei, Director of the Executive Department of China-Aid Training Programs at AIBO, praised the Gambian participants for their active engagement and leadership. “You brought curiosity, passion, and purpose to every moment of this seminar. Your visit to Harbin, your conversations, and your enthusiasm have left a lasting impression. You are the future of The Gambia, and we believe you will carry this experience into the next chapter of your country’s progress,” Mr. Wu stated. The seminar concluded with a farewell luncheon and the awarding of certificates to all 30 participants. Before their departure, the delegation also paid a courtesy visit to the Gambian Embassy in Beijing, where they shared their experiences and expressed appreciation for the embassy’s continued support throughout their stay. The first group of participants arrived safely in The Gambia on Tuesday, July 22, with the remaining members returning on Wednesday, July 23. As the delegation returns home, the message is clear: the knowledge gained and friendships formed in China will serve as a springboard for national development initiatives, youth empowerment programs, and deeper Gambia–China collaboration. The seminar is part of China’s continued efforts under the Belt and Road Initiative and South-South Cooperation to promote global development through knowledge exchange, capacity building, and people-to-people diplomacy.

The Gambia Student Union at the Islamic University of Medina, alongside executive members of its football team, on Monday paid a courtesy call on the Honourable Minister of Youth & Sports , Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie , following their remarkable victory at the Expatriate World Cup—an annual football tournament hosted by the university. The Gambian team, made up of students studying in Saudi Arabia, proudly clinched the championship for the second year running, defeating other international student teams to secure the coveted title once again. Their back-to-back victory has not only raised the Gambian flag high but also etched their names in the tournament’s history books. The meeting, held at the Ministry’s conference hall and chaired by the Deputy Permanent Secretary (Technical), Mr. Musa Mbye, provided a platform for the students to share the story behind their triumph and the challenges they encountered. Coach Muhammed Lamin Njie reflected on the team’s journey to the finals, highlighting their discipline, determination, and talent as key contributors to their success. However, he was quick to express concern over the lack of sporting materials such as jerseys and training kits—an area he believes, if addressed, could further enhance the team’s performance. Ebrima Mareneh, Vice President of the Student Union, gave a brief overview of the Union’s activities, emphasizing their role in promoting academic excellence and sportsmanship among Gambian students in Medina. Mustapha Camara, the Union’s Head of Media and Publicity, also shed light on some of the logistical challenges faced by the team, especially during international tournaments. In response, Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie lauded the students for their outstanding achievement and described sports as a powerful unifier that transcends borders and brings people together through shared passion and national pride. He noted that The Gambia being recognized on international sporting platforms is a clear reflection of the talent and potential within the country’s youth. “Sports has the power to bring people together, uplift nations, and inspire hope. What you have achieved in Medina is not just a victory for yourselves, but a proud moment for the entire Gambia,” Hon. Badjie said. He assured the delegation that the Ministry remains committed to supporting youth and sports development, both locally and in the diaspora. Hon. Badjie also pledged to support the team through his office, assuring them that they would be provided with sporting materials, including Gambian jerseys, and a token of appreciation in recognition of their performance during the tournament. The delegation expressed their gratitude for the warm reception and used the opportunity to formally request support from the Ministry, particularly in the areas of sports gear, training equipment, and other logistical needs to strengthen their preparation for future tournaments. The meeting ended on a high note with mutual pledges of continued collaboration and support, aimed at further uplifting Gambian youth making waves both at home and abroad.

The Government of The Gambia, through the Ministry of Youth & Sports, has approved D7 million to support the Gambia’s participation in the first-ever African School Games in Algeria. The Gambian delegation, made up of 26 student-athletes and officials, will compete in six sporting disciplines, including athletic, basketball, volleyball, wrestling etc, will arrive in Algeria tomorrow to represent The Smiling Coast at the continental stage. This bold move is backed by a strong partnership between the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC)—a team effort to give our young athletes the chance to shine internationally. Wishing our young champions the best of luck in Algeria!

The Hon. Minister of Youth and Sports, Bakary Y. Badjie, has confirmed that President Adama Barrow has instructed the immediate deployment of a private jet to evacuate The Gambia’s U16 basketball team, following their involvement in a road accident in Guinea. Speaking from the airport, where he is overseeing preparations alongside his ministry officials and other stakeholders, Minister Badjie stated that the private jet has already departed and will make two inbound trips to ensure the safe return of both players and officials. A medical team from the Ministry of Health and the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH) is currently on standby at the airport to conduct medical assessments upon the team’s arrival. Those who require further treatment will be taken for specialized care, while others will be received by officials of the Gambia Basketball Association and escorted home. The Ministry assures the public that all necessary steps are being taken to provide care and support for the team. Further updates will follow as the evacuation unfolds.