From uncovering ghost worker fraud to covering high-profile international trials, Askanwi Media’s debut newsletter captures the most critical stories from the first four months of 2025. Dive into exclusive reports, data-driven insights, and courageous journalism that holds power to account. Download our first edition in this article.

In a bold reaffirmation of political alignment, Dr. Ismaila Ceesay has declared Citizens Alliance’s unwavering support for President Barrow’s government—marking a dramatic evolution for a party once seen as a fierce opposition force. More in this publication.

The University of Applied Science, Engineering and Technology (USET) is set to open its doors in June 2025, marking a major milestone in The Gambia’s commitment to skills-based higher education. Designed to equip young Gambians with practical, job-ready skills, USET is expected to play a pivotal role in national development, youth empowerment, and technical self-sufficiency. More in the article.

In a strong call for accountability and redress, human rights advocates, civil society organizations, and policymakers gathered in The Gambia for the NGO Forum on Reparative Justice, spotlighting the urgent need to address the enduring legacy of slavery, colonialism, and systemic racism across Africa and its diaspora. More in the report.

The long-awaited return of the Kanilai Ferry has revived activity on the vital Banjul–Barra crossing, but questions remain over whether the Gambia Ferry Services (GFS) will fulfil its pledge to introduce 24-hour operations this month. More in the publication.

In 2023, The Gambia ranked 5th in Africa and 46th globally, positioned between the United States and South Korea. However, this year, the country has fallen to 11th place, marking a setback for the ambitious goal set by the new Information Minister to make The Gambia the top-ranked country in Africa for press freedom. Achieving this target will require strong political will and critical legal reforms to surpass Sierra Leone, Liberia, and other African nations. More on this in the full report.

Press freedom is experiencing a worrying decline in many African nations. The region records the highest number of countries with declining economic indicators as 80 per cent have seen their economic scores drop. In many cases, media ownership is concentrated in the hands of a few private groups close to those in power and individuals with political interests, which compromises newsrooms’ editorial independence. More in the press release.

The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) officially opened its 83rd Ordinary Session on May 2, 2025, at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo, The Gambia. Centred on the theme of justice and reparations, the session brings together human rights defenders, government officials, and stakeholders from across Africa to tackle pressing issues such as accountability, human rights violations, and pathways toward reparative justice. The three-week event will shape critical decisions aimed at protecting and advancing human and peoples’ rights across the continent. More in the report.

As the 2026 presidential elections approach, the Citizens' Alliance (CA) has reaffirmed its unwavering support for President Adama Barrow. During their congress in Soma on April 26, 2025, Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, the party’s leader, pledged that the CA would vote for Barrow’s re-election. More in the press release.

Ahead of World Press Freedom Day, African movements have issued an urgent call to action as civic space crumbles under the popular leadership of President Captain Ibrahim Traoré in Burkina Faso. A joint statement signed by 18 movements and activists has condemned “kidnappings” under the regime and urged the international community to intervene, as journalists and dissenting voices are being rounded up. More is detailed in this revealing press release, which highlights how opposing voices are being forced to face jihadists in the Sahel.