AGP Executive Report

Electricity Crisis Watch: NAWEC says Greater Banjul and the West Coast are facing major power disruptions and long outages, blaming reduced regional electricity imports (down by up to 60MW) plus limited domestic backup generation due to maintenance delays and high fuel costs; it says emergency load management is prioritising hospitals and water supply while it works to restore backup power and imports. Accountability Pressure: GALA has set a June 19 deadline for government and NAWEC to stabilise electricity and improve accountability, arguing the crisis is rooted in weak planning and preparedness—not just technical issues—and warning of a nationwide protest if there’s no meaningful change. Cost-of-Living & Health Access: Justice for All calls for a nationwide sit-down strike starting Monday, 8 June, linking fuel and transport hikes to worsening hardship for families, including people trying to reach work, schools, markets and health facilities. Gender & Media Leadership: A Gambian master’s study finds women’s representation drops sharply at leadership levels in Gambia’s newsrooms, pointing to opaque promotion practices, gendered assignments, harassment, and weak protection systems. Health Systems Workforce: HaPSNA opened a high-level meeting in Abidjan to strengthen community health programmes by integrating health workers into national civil service systems, with The Gambia among participating countries.

Power Crisis in Focus: NAWEC says electricity disruptions in the Greater Banjul Area and West Coast Region are driven by reduced imports (up to 60MW) plus limited domestic backup due to maintenance, delays, and high fuel costs—leading to outages that can last over 10 hours daily, with emergency load management prioritising hospitals and water services while a gradual recovery is expected by mid-June. Community Health Impact: GALA warns the recurring outages are already affecting health facilities, students, businesses and households, and threatens a nationwide sit-down protest if electricity supply and accountability don’t improve by 19 June. Health Systems & Workforce: The HaPSNA meeting in Abidjan brings together health and civil service leaders from The Gambia and other countries to strengthen community health programs by integrating health workers into national civil service systems. Malaria Research: Scientists report successfully freezing and reviving Anopheles gambiae larvae, a step that could help store malaria-control mosquito strains more reliably for future use. Nutrition & Wellness Research Funding: The Thanzi Programme’s CHE grant expands health systems research and capacity-building into Namibia and Zambia, supporting work tied to universal health coverage and health financing.

Electricity Crisis Watch: NAWEC says Greater Banjul and the West Coast are facing major power disruptions, with imports cut by up to 60MW due to regional technical issues and fuel shortages, while domestic backup generation is limited by maintenance and high fuel costs—creating a shortfall over 50% and outages that can last more than 10 hours; NAWEC says emergency load management is prioritising hospitals and water services, with gradual recovery expected by mid-June if imports and repairs proceed. Health & Cost-of-Living Pressure: Justice for All has called for a nationwide sit-down strike starting Monday, 8 June, citing soaring fuel prices and transport fares that are hitting families, workers, students, traders, and access to health facilities. Governance & Public Trust: A local commentary warns that public institutions still struggle to deliver reliable services across sectors, including healthcare, while another UDP official alleges widespread corruption and mismanagement affecting health and other services. Water Stress During Holidays: In Bundung, Tobaski celebrations were disrupted by severe water shortages, leaving households without running water and forcing residents—especially women—to spend money and time fetching water. Regional Health Systems Strengthening: The HaPSNA high-level meeting opened in Abidjan, with The Gambia among participating countries, focusing on strengthening community health programs through civil service systems and health workforce integration. Malaria Research Update: Researchers report they have frozen and revived Anopheles gambiae larvae, a step that could help store malaria vector strains for future control efforts.

Electricity & Health Services: NAWEC says Greater Banjul and the West Coast are facing major power disruptions, with imports cut by up to 60MW and domestic backup generation short by more than 50% of demand, leading to scheduled outages that can last over 10 hours; NAWEC says it’s prioritising hospitals and water supply and expects gradual recovery by mid-June. Water Crisis & Tobaski Hardship: In Bundung, severe water shortages left families struggling during Tobaski, with residents walking for drinking water and paying for donkey-cart deliveries as taps stay dry for weeks. Malaria Research Breakthrough: Researchers report they’ve successfully frozen and revived Anopheles gambiae larvae, a step that could help store malaria-control mosquito strains more reliably for future use. Neonatal Care Update: A new review highlights that “immediate” kangaroo mother care for preterm or low-birth-weight babies may be safer and more effective than waiting, but adoption varies widely across hospitals. Health Policy Research Funding: The Thanzi Programme’s Centre for Health Economics (CHE) secured a grant to expand health systems research into Namibia and Zambia, supporting universal health coverage and health financing policy work. Gambia Accountability Spotlight: Commentary questions the choice of a non-Gambian Special Prosecutor for crimes under Yahya Jammeh’s rule, raising concerns about how “Gambian-driven” justice will be felt by victims.

Power Crisis in Greater Banjul: NAWEC says electricity imports have dropped by up to 60MW due to regional technical issues and fuel shortages, while domestic backup generation is still limited by maintenance and high costs—leading to daily outages in some areas, with hospitals and water services prioritised, and a gradual return expected by mid-June. Water Shortages Disrupt Tobaski in Bundung: Severe lack of running water has turned Tobaski preparations into a daily struggle, with residents walking long distances for drinking water and some paying for donkey-cart deliveries. Governance Pushback: Opposition UDP media secretary Saikou Camara criticises government performance across sectors including health, alleging corruption, mismanagement, and weak accountability. Health Research Funding: The Thanzi Programme’s Centre for Health Economics secured a grant to expand health systems research and capacity-building into Namibia and Zambia, supporting work on universal health coverage and health financing. Malaria Innovation: Researchers report successfully freezing and reviving Anopheles gambiae larvae, a step that could help store genetically engineered mosquito strains more safely and cheaply. Neonatal Care Update: A review highlights that starting kangaroo mother care immediately after birth may improve outcomes for preterm and low-birth-weight babies, though hospital implementation varies. Recognition in Health & Service: The Fatu Network’s 6th Heroes Awards honoured multiple Gambia-based achievers, including an award for health care. Tobacco & Vaping Warning: UAE doctors warn vaping can cause severe, even life-threatening lung inflammation in teens, echoing WHO concerns about nicotine products targeting young people.

Neonatal Care Update: New research highlights that kangaroo mother care (skin-to-skin) may be started immediately after birth for premature and low-birth-weight babies, with the goal of improving survival while noting real-world gaps in how hospitals implement it. Maternal & Child Health: The same review flags barriers to routine use—like staffing, monitoring, privacy, and family support—showing why consistent protocols matter for safer care. Gambia in the News (Health-linked): A U.S. report says a Gambia-flagged cargo vessel was disabled during enforcement around the Strait of Hormuz, underscoring how regional disruptions can affect health through fuel and supply pressures. Community Health & Safety: Reports also describe a major water main break with repairs underway near a local police station—an issue that can quickly affect sanitation and public health. Violence & Care for Survivors: A Rome case details a tourist abducted and gang-raped for 72 hours, with victims receiving specialist care—an example of why strong referral and support systems are vital.

Maritime Safety & Health Security: The U.S. Central Command says it disabled a Gambia-flagged cargo vessel, M/V Lian Star, after the crew ignored more than 20 warnings while trying to breach the Iran blockade—raising regional health and safety risks for shipping routes. Maternal & Newborn Care: A new review highlights that starting kangaroo mother care immediately after birth may improve outcomes for premature and low-birth-weight babies, though real-world hospital adoption still varies. Public Health Innovation: Micron Biomedical announced a new CFO as it pushes needle-free vaccine and therapeutic delivery toward pivotal studies and commercialization. Health Equity in Practice: A global discussion on excessive bail conditions in Ghana underscores how pre-trial restrictions can effectively punish people before trial—an issue that can spill into access to care and wellbeing. Local Health Policy Watch: Reports also note The Gambia’s hospital fees have been increased, a move that could affect affordability of care. Violence & Care for Survivors: Italy’s case of a tourist abducted and gang-raped for 72 hours in Rome—where suspects include Gambians—shows the urgent need for strong survivor support and medical response systems.

Neonatal Care Breakthrough: New research reviews show kangaroo mother care started immediately after birth may improve outcomes for premature and low-birth-weight babies, but hospitals still struggle with timing, staffing, monitoring, and family support. Maternal & Newborn Health: The same evidence base highlights why skin-to-skin care plus breastfeeding and follow-up can reduce neonatal deaths and long-term developmental challenges when implemented well. Gambia Health Policy Watch: A major governance debate is resurfacing around The Gambia’s first Special Prosecutor appointment, raising questions about accountability design and local ownership—an issue that can shape how health and rights-related cases are handled. Public Health Risk Alert: The Gambia is on alert as an Ebola outbreak is reported in Central and East Africa, underscoring the need for preparedness and surveillance. Health Funding & Access: The World Bank-backed PEI cash-grant programme in The Gambia targets vulnerable households with training and mentoring to support livelihoods—an indirect but important driver of nutrition and health stability.

Ebola Alert: The Gambia Ministry of Health has activated heightened surveillance after WHO and Africa CDC flagged an Ebola outbreak in parts of Central and East Africa, urging calm but vigilance; no suspected or confirmed cases have been reported in The Gambia so far. Newborn Care Research: A new review highlights that starting kangaroo mother care immediately after birth may improve outcomes for premature and low-birth-weight babies, though real-world hospital adoption varies. Maternal & Child Health Focus: Another report reinforces skin-to-skin care as a lifesaving approach for newborns, especially where incubator access is limited. Health System & Workforce: AIUWA’s 10th convocation graduated 322 students, including pharmacy, nursing, medical laboratory science, and public health and midwifery—plus announced new postgraduate programmes. Public Health Risk Watch: With regional disease threats rising, Gambia’s monitoring and preparedness steps are front and centre this week.

Neonatal Care Breakthrough: New research highlights that starting kangaroo mother care immediately after birth for premature and low-birth-weight babies may improve survival, but real-world hospital use varies by timing, staffing, monitoring, and family support. Ebola Alert: The Gambia Ministry of Health has activated heightened surveillance after WHO and Africa CDC classified an Ebola outbreak in parts of Central and East Africa as major public health emergencies; officials say there are currently no suspected or confirmed cases in The Gambia. Health Workforce Boost: American International University of West Africa (AIUWA) graduated 322 students, including pharmacy, nursing, medical laboratory science, public health and midwifery, and announced new postgraduate programmes. Women’s Health & Education: Merck Foundation launched Ghana’s “Educating Linda” scholarships with the First Lady, aiming to strengthen healthcare capacity and reduce infertility stigma while supporting underprivileged girls’ education. Public Health Systems Link: Climate and urbanisation pressures are worsening flooding and public health risks across Africa, with housing damage linked to lost lives and health impacts.

Ebola Alert: The Gambia Ministry of Health has activated heightened surveillance after WHO and Africa CDC declared an Ebola outbreak emergency in parts of Central and East Africa (DRC and Uganda). Authorities say there are currently no suspected or confirmed Ebola cases in The Gambia, but the public is urged to stay calm and vigilant. Hospital Data Worries: A recent critique of Gambia hospital reporting points to weak health information systems, paper-based records, gaps in facility registers, and limited electronic medical records—issues that can distort what gets published about capacity and staffing. Health Workforce & Access: Another report highlights ongoing hospital strain tied to staff shortages, medicine stockouts, and financial barriers for patients—factors that can push people toward costly private care or seeking treatment abroad. Nutrition & Water Link: AfriCAN’s Africa Day 2026 campaign spotlights “Our Water, Our Environment, Our Responsibility,” linking safe water, sanitation, and nutrition to healthier communities, with youth initiatives already active in The Gambia. Violence & Care: Italy’s case of a drugged tourist held for 72 hours and gang-raped, treated at Casilino hospital, underscores the need for strong emergency and women-victim services—relevant to regional health and protection planning.

Ebola Alert: The Gambia Ministry of Health activated heightened surveillance after WHO and Africa CDC declared an Ebola outbreak emergency in parts of Central and East Africa, stressing there are currently no suspected or confirmed Ebola cases in The Gambia. Hospital Fees Shock: A leaked plan says Gambia’s government intends to raise hospital fees from 25 dalasis to 100 dalasis after the 2026 elections, raising fresh concerns for patients already facing cost barriers. Health Data Worries: A review highlights weak health information systems across Gambian facilities, with many clinics lacking electronic records and facing gaps in registers and delays in reporting. TB-Like Illness Testing: A new LSHTM-linked study in The Gambia found molecular signs of fungal infections (including Aspergillus and Pneumocystis) in some patients with TB-like symptoms who tested negative for TB, pointing to better diagnostic testing needs. Women’s Health & Education: Merck Foundation and Ghana’s First Lady launched “Educating Linda” to support girl education and strengthen healthcare capacity, including work to reduce infertility stigma. Public Health Funding Context: World Bank-backed resilience and nutrition-linked support is expanding cash grants and training for vulnerable households, aiming to reduce extreme poverty and improve wellbeing.

Ebola Alert: The Gambia Ministry of Health has activated heightened surveillance after WHO and Africa CDC classified an Ebola outbreak in parts of the DRC and Uganda as major public health emergencies; authorities say there are currently no suspected or confirmed Ebola cases in The Gambia, but the public is urged to stay calm and vigilant. Hospital Fees Shock: A leaked plan says the government intends to raise hospital fees from 25 dalasis to 100 dalasis after the 2026 elections, raising fresh concerns about access to care. Health Data Accuracy: A new review highlights weak health information systems across Gambian facilities, with many clinics lacking electronic records and facing paper-based data gaps that can distort service and resource reporting. TB-Like Illness, Fungal Twist: A Gambia-linked study using molecular testing found fungal infections (including Aspergillus and Pneumocystis) in some adults with TB-like symptoms who tested negative for TB—pointing to the need for better diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Nutrition & Water: AfriCAN launched an Africa Day 2026 campaign in Cameroon, The Gambia and Ghana linking water, sanitation and nutrition to healthier communities.

Ebola Alert: The Gambia Ministry of Health has activated heightened surveillance after WHO and Africa CDC declared an Ebola outbreak a major public health emergency in parts of the DRC and Uganda, stressing there are currently no suspected or confirmed cases in The Gambia and urging the public to stay calm but vigilant. Hospital Fees & Data Trust: Reports say the government increased hospital fees from 25 dalasis to 100 dalasis, while another piece argues Gambia hospital data is undermined by weak health information systems, paper-based records, and gaps between national and international reporting. TB-Like Fungal Findings: A new Gambia study (PLOS ONE) identified fungal infections in adults with TB-like symptoms who tested negative for TB, pointing to better testing needs to guide correct treatment. World Bank Poverty Push: The World Bank launched a bold initiative aimed at eradicating extreme poverty in The Gambia, including support through programmes that combine cash grants, training, and mentoring. Nutrition & Water Focus: AfriCAN marked Africa Day 2026 with a campaign linking water, sanitation, nutrition, and healthy communities, highlighting youth action in The Gambia. Health Workforce Education: AIUWA’s 10th convocation saw 322 graduates across health-related fields (including pharmacy, nursing, public health and midwifery) and announced new postgraduate expansion.

Ebola Alert in Gambia: The Ministry of Health has activated heightened surveillance after WHO and Africa CDC flagged an Ebola outbreak in parts of Central and East Africa (DRC and Uganda). Authorities say there are currently no suspected or confirmed cases in The Gambia, but the public is urged to stay calm and vigilant. Malaria Hope: New research from Tanzania reports children in specially designed “Star Homes” saw 44% less malaria, adding fresh momentum to prevention efforts across Africa. Health System Pressure: A week of debate continues around Gambia’s hospital data and record-keeping gaps, alongside renewed scrutiny of rising facility fees. Regional Mobility: Congo announced visa-free entry for all Africans from January 2027, joining a growing wave of easier travel rules across the continent. Local Development & Education: President Barrow kept rolling out roads, while AIUWA marked its 10th convocation with 322 graduates and new postgraduate plans. Tax Push: GRA says 2025 revenue hit D25.3bn (+10%), with Africell named largest taxpayer.

Ebola Alert: The Gambia Ministry of Health has activated heightened surveillance after WHO and Africa CDC classified an Ebola outbreak in parts of Central and East Africa as major emergencies, linked to the Bundibugyo strain in the DRC and Uganda—while stressing there are currently no suspected or confirmed cases in The Gambia. Malaria Hope: New research from Tanzania points to “Star Homes” cutting malaria in children by 44%, adding fresh momentum to prevention efforts across Africa. Health Funding & Skills: The World Bank-backed PEI programme will support 3,420 vulnerable households with D20,000 cash grants plus training, while AIUWA’s 10th convocation highlights growing health-related graduate output. Women & Education: Merck Foundation’s “More Than a Mother” push expands girl education and healthcare capacity efforts, with Dr. Rasha Kelej receiving further regional recognition. Data & Fees Pressure: Ongoing debate continues over hospital fee increases and the accuracy of health facility data systems.