GPU Commences Two-Day Engagement for Media Managers on Key Governance Institutions

Juldeh Njie, GPU ATI Programme Officer © Askanwi Media

By Haddy Ceesay

The Gambia Press Union (GPU), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and TANGO, commenced a two-day engagement with media managers and editors on the roles and responsibilities of key governance institutions in The Gambia, today, 8th September 2026.

The engagement, held at Seaview Hotel in Senegambia, brought together media managers and editors to enhance their understanding of the mandates and functions of the Media Council of The Gambia, the Information Commission, and the Post-TRRC Unit at the Ministry of Justice.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Juldeh Njie, Programme Officer at the Gambia Press Union, said the engagement was particularly important as the country approaches a crucial electoral cycle.

“As we approach a crucial electoral cycle, it is important that we engage media managers and editors on key governance institutions, including the Media Council of The Gambia, the Information Commission, and the Post-TRRC Unit,” she said.

She noted that media managers and editors play a critical role in the dissemination of information and serve as gatekeepers within their respective media houses.

According to her, equipping media practitioners with a better understanding of the mandates, roles and importance of these institutions will enable them to make informed editorial decisions and contribute to the dissemination of accurate information.

She further explained that the project is funded by the European Union, UNDP and Creative Initiative, adding that the GPU has already conducted a series of engagements, including town hall meetings across the North Bank, Upper River and Lower River regions, as well as the Greater Banjul Area.

“These engagements are aimed at ensuring that citizens understand their right to access information and are aware of the governance institutions established to promote transparency, accountability and public participation,” she said.

Editors at GPU Engagement © Askanwi Media

Also speaking at the opening ceremony, the Secretary General of the Gambia Press Union, Modou S. Joof, highlighted the importance of civic information and direct engagement with key governance institutions.

Joof said the Media Council of The Gambia plays an important role in ensuring that the media operates according to professional and ethical standards by handling complaints about media conduct and monitoring compliance with the Code of Conduct for Journalists.

He also highlighted the role of the Information Commission in promoting transparency and accountability through its work on access to information, including handling complaints and appeals relating to citizens’ right to access information.

According to Joof, access to information is vital to building a more informed and democratic society.

He further pointed to the importance of the Post-TRRC Unit at the Ministry of Justice, which plays a role in coordinating the implementation of recommendations from the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission.

Joof said the work of the Post-TRRC Unit is significant to the realization of The Gambia’s transitional justice objectives.

He explained that the two-day engagement is intended to increase awareness of the mandates, functions and services of the three institutions while empowering media editors and managers with the knowledge required to engage effectively with them.

He added that the engagement would also help provide media managers and editors with verified and credible information to support informed decision-making and reduce the spread of misinformation and disinformation concerning the work and obligations of the three institutions.

The GPU Secretary General thanked participants for attending and urged media managers and editors to make effective use of the knowledge gained from the engagement.