Written by: Mohammed Omran
The Government of The Gambia has expressed grave concern over an incident that occurred on Thursday, July 16, 2026, in which the Senegalese Armed Forces allegedly demolished part of the border fence at the Buluk military post in the West Coast region without prior consultation.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Friday by government spokesperson Ebrima J. Sankare, the government described the action as “highly provocative and completely unacceptable.” It asserted that the demolition bypassed established bilateral military and diplomatic channels that have governed relations between the two countries for decades.
Despite this tension, The Gambia reaffirmed its commitment to a peaceful resolution through dialogue, the Joint Military Commission, and other existing mechanisms. Formal diplomatic consultations with Senegal have already begun.
The statement emphasized the longstanding fraternal relations between the two countries, noting the recent commitments made by the two heads of state to strengthen cooperation in the areas of defense, security, trade, and border management. It called on Senegalese forces to exercise maximum restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of both nations.
Important message from the President of The Gambia to his citizens
In a separate context, Gambian President Adama Barrow held a meeting with members of the Gambian community residing in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in the presence of a number of students, professionals and community leaders, as part of the government’s keenness to enhance communication with citizens abroad and listen to the most prominent issues and challenges they face.
An important message from the President of Gambia to the citizens
The meeting witnessed extensive discussions on a number of issues of concern to the community members, foremost among them are the procedures for issuing and renewing passports, in addition to the permits and procedures necessary to facilitate performing the rituals of Hajj and visiting Mecca Al-Mukarramah, which contributes to facilitating the services provided to Gambian citizens residing in the Kingdom.
President Adama Barrow affirmed during the meeting that the government has carefully listened to all the observations and proposals put forth by members of the diaspora. He indicated that the relevant authorities will work to study these issues and take appropriate measures to address them within legal and administrative frameworks.
