Cruise Tourism Boost: The Regatta Majuro docked in Banjul with about 570 passengers, and the Gambia Tourism Board says the visit is already spreading benefits to tour operators, transport, markets, restaurants and attractions, including trips as far as Jufureh. Tourism Growth Roadmaps: A EU-backed validation exercise at the Senegambia Beach Hotel produced new roadmaps to strengthen The Gambia’s tourism and creative industries, with a focus on MSMEs, women and youth, plus better market access and investment support. Infrastructure for Access: President Adama Barrow laid the foundation stone for 85 km of feeder roads in Upper River Region under the “Connect Gambia” push, aiming to improve access for remote settlements and cut travel friction for goods and people. Digital Identity Pause: The government temporarily suspended National ID card and driver’s licence issuance (9–29 June) to support a new digital system rollout, raising questions about service continuity. Health Alert: The Ministry of Health confirmed no Ebola cases in The Gambia and said screening and rapid response teams remain active at entry points like Banjul International Airport. Immigration Reform: The Gambia Immigration Bill 2026 proposes tougher penalties for migrant smuggling and gives officers final say on entry even with valid visas.