Africa-Press – Gambia. The Minister of Information, Media, and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, said the phenomenon of irregular migration, locally known as “Backway,” has not intensified, but reporting on the issue has grown more prominent.
Speaking on the talk show Coffee Time with Peter Gomez, Dr. Ceesay traced the origins of the practice, noting that Gambians have long traveled irregularly. “Migration is as old as human existence itself. It is intrinsic in human beings. Even during Jawara’s period, people were taking the back way,” he said. He added that irregular migration persisted during the regime of former President Yahya Jammeh and questioned the notion that the problem is new. “Now, what has changed in the Gambia is the reporting,” he said.
His remarks come amid reports from migration advocates that between November 4 and 25, 2025, approximately 1,960 Gambians undertook the dangerous maritime journey to the Canary Islands, marking one of the largest irregular migration movements in the country’s recent history.
Dr. Ceesay attributed the heightened visibility of the issue to the expansion of media in the country. He noted that during Jammeh’s presidency, the state broadcaster, GRTS, had a monopoly, whereas today, multiple media outlets cover national events, sometimes with numerous microphones on a single podium, as observed during the recent Gambia Press Union National Journalism Awards.
The minister also highlighted improvements in access to basic services, including water, electricity, and support for farmers. “All evidence, all data, both empirical and anecdotal, suggest that the Gambia is better off today than it was 10, 15 years ago,” he said.
Addressing government efforts to curb irregular migration, Dr. Ceesay said authorities are focusing on three strategies: creating opportunities for young people, strengthening surveillance, and establishing safe channels through circular migration agreements. He emphasized, however, that the responsibility ultimately rests with individuals.
“No government can give its citizens money every day. No government can go to your house, hold your hand, and give you a job,” he said. “What government can do is provide the playing field, the environment, the policies, and the programs. It is now for you to go and grab what is yours.”
Dr. Ceesay also noted that during the recently concluded “Meet the People Tour,” issues such as the “Backway” phenomenon and the cost of living were not among the primary concerns raised by residents in the provinces.
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