Protests Erupt in Gambia Over Escalating Power Outages
By Editor • September 9, 2026 • 1 min read
In a dramatic display of discontent, citizens of Gambia took to the streets late on September 7 to voice their frustrations over severe power outages affecting the nation. Demonstrations erupted in various locations, including near the official residence of President Adama Barrow, where protestors burned tyres and erected barricades, chanting slogans calling for Barrow's resignation.
Residents have reported experiencing blackouts lasting as long as 48 hours, a situation that has sparked growing anger among the population ahead of the upcoming presidential election in December, where Barrow aims for a third term. The protests intensified in the town of Farato, where demonstrators targeted the residence of Vice President Mohammed B.S. Jallow and vandalized materials belonging to the ruling National People's Party.
In response to the unrest, President Barrow acknowledged the dire electricity situation during a national address, highlighting record demand and failures in major power units, compounded by reduced hydropower generation due to seasonal conditions. Information Minister Ismaila Ceesay described the protests as "deeply disconcerting" and expressed awareness of the hardships faced by Gambians, assuring that the government is working tirelessly to restore power stability. Barrow also promised that new generators would be deployed by the end of October, and measures are in place to enhance the country’s energy capacity.
Source: www.dailymaverick.co.za
