Fellow Gambians,

It is with deep concern and a heavy heart that I deliver this address on the tragic accident recorded off the coast of Jinack Village in the North Bank Region. This happened around midnight on 31st December 2025, when a boat reportedly carrying unspecified number of irregular migrants capsized.

So far, one hundred and two (102) persons have been rescued, with a number of victims still under urgent medical care. Sadly, only seven bodies have been recovered, but search and rescue operations are ongoing to locate those still unaccounted for.

Meanwhile, our National Emergency Response Plan has been activated, and the Government has deployed adequate resources to intensify efforts and provide immediate assistance to the survivors.

On behalf of the Government and the people of The Gambia, I extend my sincere condolences to the bereaved families and to all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.

I reassure every parent, relative, and loved one anxiously waiting for additional news that you are not alone in this dilemma. The nation grieves with you, and we hold you dearly in our hearts at this painful moment.

On behalf of the entire nation, I express profound gratitude to the gallant personnel of The Gambia Navy for their swift, courageous, and determined response. On receiving the distress alert, they acted promptly by putting their lives at risk to save the lives of others.

We equally commend our dedicated emergency response agencies and the personnel of the security services who supported the operations professionally and urgently.

I also extend special appreciation to our health workers, doctors, nurses, paramedics, and staff at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, for working tirelessly to treat the injured, provide comfort, and preserve life. Their compassion and sacrifice remind us of the best of humanity.

We are similarly grateful to the community volunteers, including local fishermen, who came forward selflessly to assist in the rescue operations. The Gambia salutes you all.

Fellow Gambians,

This incident is a painful reminder of the dangerous and life-threatening nature of irregular migration. Surely, no dream, journey, or promise is worth a single loss of life at sea.

My government, therefore, remains firmly committed to strengthening efforts to prevent irregular migration. More importantly, we remain strongly determined to create safer and more dignified opportunities for our young people through development initiatives, jobs, and other livelihood options at home.

I urge all citizens to remain calm, supportive, and compassionate, as our security and humanitarian agencies continue their critical search and rescue operations.

We will provide updates on the identities, nationalities, and other verified details of the victims whenever we receive them.

Furthermore, the Government will launch a comprehensive investigation into this incident, and all individuals found wanting will be dealt with in accordance with the law.

May the Almighty Allah grant mercy to those who have passed, healing to the injured, strength to the grieving families, and protection to all those involved in the rescue efforts.

God bless us all.