RismadarVoice Reporters
September 8, 2026
Protesters in Gambia have taken to the streets to express anger over prolonged electricity shortages, with demonstrations reported in several locations including parts of the capital, Banjul.
Residents said police used tear gas to disperse crowds gathered overnight near President Adama Barrow’s official residence and other areas affected by the protests.
During the demonstrations, protesters burned tyres, erected road barricades and chanted calls including “Barrow must go,” according to a Reuters witness.
The power crisis has increased public frustration ahead of the country’s presidential election expected in December, in which President Adama Barrow is seeking a third term.
In the town of Farato, protesters gathered outside the residence of Vice President Mohammed B.S. Jallow and reportedly destroyed banners at an office belonging to the ruling National People’s Party.
The National Water and Electricity Company Ltd (NAWEC) said the country had experienced an unexpected increase in electricity demand during peak periods, which it linked to high temperatures.
The utility also reported a technical problem affecting one of its major power-generating units, warning that the situation would require electricity load shedding across several areas.
Some residents said they had experienced blackouts lasting up to 48 hours.
“There is no light everywhere. There is no light. People have been crying about electricity,” Ousainu Jammeh, a resident of the Westfield area of Banjul, said.
President Barrow was scheduled to visit NAWEC facilities on Tuesday and address the nation later in the evening as authorities respond to growing concerns over the electricity situation.
Traffic in Banjul had returned to normal by Tuesday morning after protesters cleared barricades and the demonstrations subsided.
