By Makutu Manneh
The Gambia Press Union (GPU) on Saturday, December 6, 2025, hosted the 10th edition of its National Journalism Awards, marking a decade of recognising and promoting excellence in Gambian journalism.
Held under the theme “A Decade of Excellence: Strengthening Journalism for Democracy, Accountability, and the Safety of Journalists,” the ceremony convened journalists, media advocates, government representatives, and development partners to honour outstanding reporting and reflect on the evolving media landscape.
In her opening address, GPU President Isatou Keita highlighted the significance of the milestone, expressing gratitude to past leaders whose vision led to the establishment of the awards. She noted that the initiative has served as a strong incentive for journalists to pursue impactful, public-interest reporting that fosters transparency, good governance, accountability, and justice.
Keita said this year’s theme underscores journalism’s essential role in safeguarding democracy and promoting political accountability while reminding stakeholders of the ongoing need to ensure the protection and safety of journalists. She emphasized that professional, ethical journalism has played a pivotal role in strengthening democratic governance, civic participation, and transparency in The Gambia.
Despite the progress, she raised an alarm over continuing challenges, particularly restrictive laws that threaten press freedom. She cited the 2025 Criminal Offences Act, which she said mirrors punitive provisions of the former criminal code and imposes imprisonment and heavy fines on journalists—measures she warned are detrimental to democracy and accountability.
“We also note with concern new laws that are being made, like the Cybercrime 2023, which has provisions that go beyond addressing false news online with a direct attempt to punish investigative journalism and to kill transparency and accountability in government,” she said.
Keita further lamented ongoing difficulties in accessing public information, particularly on government contracts and the use of public funds. While acknowledging the enactment of the Access to Information Act in 2021, she noted that its full implementation remains outstanding.
“Another challenge journalists face today is access to information, especially information relating to government contracts and the use of public funds. We note that accurate and publicly accessible government information is fundamental to the accountable democratic governance that we seek to achieve as a country.”
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, Minister of Information, Media, and Broadcasting Services, reaffirmed the central role of journalism in democratic governance. He described the press as an essential check on power and a vital source of credible public information. Dr. Ceesay stressed that the safety of journalists is a fundamental right that must be respected and protected by the state, the media, and the public.
He also emphasised that journalistic freedom must be exercised responsibly.
“We remain committed to fostering an environment where journalists can work without fear, intimidation, or undue interference. We also champion responsible journalism that upholds truth, fairness and accuracy, that resists sensationalism and places public interest above personal or political interest,” he said.
Chair of the Judging Panel, Famara Fofana, commended Gambian media houses for maintaining professional standards at a time when the practice of journalism faces increasing scrutiny amid rapid technological change.
“I will encourage reporters to always strive for excellence, never settle for less. Remember, there is no shortcut to lasting success,” he said.
Investigative journalist Mustapha K. Darboe emerged as the night’s top honoree, winning the prestigious Journalist of the Year award alongside four other category awards. The GPU also presented special recognition awards to partners and long-standing supporters for their sustained contributions to strengthening journalism in The Gambia.