Cruise Tourism Boost: The Oceania Cruises ship Regatta Majuro docked in Banjul with about 570 passengers, with Gambia Tourism Board praising stakeholder partnerships and noting visitors explored Banjul markets and as far as Jufureh—spreading income across transport, tours, restaurants, vendors and attractions. Tourism Growth Roadmaps: A national validation exercise at Senegambia Beach Hotel backed EU-supported roadmaps to strengthen The Gambia’s tourism and creative economy, prioritizing micro, small and medium enterprises, women and youth, plus better investment, market access and institutional support. World Bank Economic Update: The World Bank released The Gambia Economic Update and a public finance review, saying growth stayed steady (5.6% in 2024 to 5.9% in 2025), tourism arrivals rose, poverty fell, but the big challenge is turning growth into jobs—especially given high informality and youth unemployment. Public Finance Focus: The review also highlights the need for “fiscal space” to sustain growth and boost job creation, with risks including energy subsidy costs and higher fertilizer prices. Pilgrims’ Travel Complaints: Gambian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia raised concerns about Gambia International Airlines flight delays, hotel return issues and meal problems, with the airline citing scheduling priorities. Local Market Fire: A fire damaged stalls at Serrekunda’s Sandika market, with traders blaming an electrical fault and calling for rebuilding and reorganization to reduce repeat incidents.