The founder and leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Gambia, Prince Ebrahim Sanyang, has declared that poverty must not define the future of Gambians, promising sweeping reforms in food security, employment, healthcare, infrastructure and energy if his party wins power.

Speaking at the official launch of EFF Gambia at Jama Hall on Saturday, August 22, 2026, Mr Sanyang said the party was formed in response to concerns raised by ordinary Gambians over rising living costs, unemployment and economic hardship.

“Poverty is not the destiny of the Gambian people,” he declared.

He said no family should be unable to afford basic necessities because of rising prices.

As part of his proposed response, Mr Sanyang pledged to establish Freedom Stores across the country to provide affordable and subsidised essential commodities, alongside a National Food Buffer Stock Company to help stabilise prices and prevent artificial shortages.

He also proposed a major overhaul of the agricultural sector through a “1 Village, 1 Cooperative” initiative, the revival of produce marketing boards and greater access to machinery, irrigation and financing for farmers.

The EFF leader further promised to establish a National Fishing Company, which he said would make fish more affordable while creating employment opportunities for young people, particularly in coastal communities.

“We have come with credible solutions and to restore politics to its highest purpose: the honest and courageous service of the people,” Mr Sanyang said.

10-point agenda

Mr Sanyang outlined what he described as 10 solemn and non-negotiable commitments to Gambians.

On jobs and the economy, he pledged to make zero unemployment a national mission, introduce “1 Ward, 1 Industry” and a 24-hour economy, while providing enterprise grants for young people and women.

In education and healthcare, he promised progressively free quality education and free primary, maternal and emergency healthcare. He also proposed “1 Village, 1 Clinic” and “1 Community, 1 Ambulance” initiatives.

Under his family relief and dignity agenda, Mr Sanyang promised monthly relief packages for low-income households and a D1,500 monthly stipend for citizens aged 60 and above.

He also proposed a national living wage, improved conditions for civil servants, affordable housing schemes and dedicated support for persons with disabilities.

On infrastructure, the EFF leader said his government would seek to ensure affordable access to water, electricity and internet for every household.

He proposed a “1 Village, 1 Borehole” programme to improve access to clean water.

For public safety, he pledged “1 Community, 1 Police Station” and “1 District, 1 Fire Service”, alongside measures to protect the country’s sovereignty and borders.

He also promised greater investment in youth leadership, sports and skills development, while positioning women and young people as equal partners in national development.

EFF promises major infrastructure projects

Mr Sanyang said an EFF government would pursue major long-term infrastructure projects, including a national railway, new international airport, national airline and shipping line.

He also pledged affordable housing, industrial parks and better-planned communities across urban and rural areas.

On foreign policy, he said The Gambia would maintain its independence in international affairs while strengthening relations with other countries, deepening African cooperation and supporting Gambians in the diaspora.

He also promised stronger institutions and tougher action against corruption, including greater transparency in the management of public funds and stronger courts and oversight bodies.

“No Gambian who works honestly should remain trapped in poverty. This is not charity from political leaders but the rightful return of the people's resources to the people,” he said.

EFF leader vows to ban NAWEC

One of the strongest pledges at the launch concerned the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC).

Mr Sanyang said an EFF government would ban NAWEC in its current form, accusing the state-owned utility of failing Gambians through inefficiency, unreliable electricity supply and high bills.

“When we come to power, NAWEC will be banned,” he stated.

He promised to replace the existing arrangement with what he described as a sustainable and modern electricity system capable of providing stable and affordable power to households and businesses.

Mr Sanyang also said an EFF government would account for its commitments through phased implementation and monitoring.

He added that his government would only borrow to finance productive projects capable of creating wealth and jobs for Gambians.