In a major turning point for The Gambia’s media landscape, His Excellency President Adama Barrow presided over the ceremonial opening of Star TV and Radio’s new office complex on Monday.
This event is a significant step forward in their objective to promote media excellence and broaden their reach throughout the nation, according to Star TV and Radio’s management.
Prominent media figures, representatives from the corporate sector, government officials, and industry executives attended the occasion. It was the beginning of a new era in the broadcasting industry as the channel promised to provide its viewers with varied programs and top-notch content.
With cutting-edge technology, the channel hopes to reinvent how news and entertainment are delivered while providing viewers with a contemporary and captivating media experience.
In his introductory remarks, Alfa Karaga, the CEO of Star TV and Radio, emphasised that the launch of their new facility signifies 13 years of steadfast dedication to broadcasting quality.
More than just the opening of a physical building, he explained, the event represents the expansion, tenacity, and commitment that have characterised Star TV and Radio from its founding in September 2012.
This growth strengthened our position as the Gambia’s most reliable media outlet. Our founder, Hagie Baniko Sissoko, a Gambian entrepreneur and philanthropist, has been a driving force behind our path, which has been one of perseverance. We can proudly rejoice today because of his vision,” he remarked.
He emphasised that the contemporary complex has, among other amenities, audio recording studios, video and audio production workshops, radio and TV broadcasting studios, and contemporary news production rooms.
He went on to say that they are proud to provide factual information, support public discourse, fact-check, inform voters, cover important events, and encourage openness.
He said, “This dedication was demonstrated during the political deadlock in 2026 and the elections that followed. By maintaining impartial and fair reporting, we helped to create a better informed electorate and a more robust democracy.”
“As we celebrate the growth of Start TV and Radio, we are also celebrating the opportunity to open doors wider for young and aspiring journalists,” Matty Touray, speaking on behalf of the Gambia Press Union President, emphasised.
She said that the media sector should support a range of voices, new viewpoints, and creative storytelling rather than being a closed-off area controlled by a few.
“This event is proof of the unwavering dedication and commitment to the media practitioners in the Gambia, who continue to uphold journalistic values by providing citizens with accurate information that empowers them,” she said.
The speaker emphasised that although they acknowledge the noteworthy advancements in advancing neighbourhood freedom in The Gambia since 2017, current law structures nonetheless impede the complete fulfilment of journalistic freedom.
Additionally, Madam Touray asked the government to take decisive action to abolish antiquated laws that restrict journalists’ freedom, criminalise speech, and stifle dissent.
In his opening remarks, President Barrow stressed that his administration has made creating a free and active media environment a top priority since 2017.
He pointed out that their dedication to media freedom, openness, and sound governance is well demonstrated by the passage of the Access to Information Act during his tenure.
By providing a forum for a range of viewpoints, generating jobs, and encouraging national discourse, Star FM and TV, a commercial media organisation, has made a substantial contribution to the Gambian media scene. Their dedication to public service and journalism quality is admirable. He urged everyone to continue their excellent efforts.
In order to broaden their audience and improve their services over time, he advised Star TV and Radio’s management and employees to embrace new technology and adhere to ethical journalism in their pursuit of excellence.
President Barrow reiterated the government’s steadfast dedication to sustainable development, peace, and stability.
According to Barrow, “there is no question that the media are essential in making sure that information is distributed truthfully and responsibly, which helps to create a nation that is enlightened and cohesive.”
President Barrow stressed that one of the most important pillars of democracy is a robust and autonomous media industry. He promised that efforts to enable the press to function freely, equitably, and efficiently will continue to get support from his administration.
Sarahule, Hagie Baniko Sissoko, the founder and owner of Star TV and Radio, thanked President Barrow for hosting the opening of his new office building in his mother tongue.
Sissoko stressed the significance of Barrow’s leadership in fostering an atmosphere that allows the media to function and commended the president for his dedication to advancing media freedom in The Gambia.
One of The Gambia’s private radio stations, Star FM, was created in 2012 by Hagie Baniko Sissoko.
According to the management, Star FM/TV encountered several obstacles between 2019 and 2021, such as budgetary limitations, political pressure, and competition from digital platforms, just like many other media companies. Notwithstanding these challenges, the station remained committed to giving the audience trustworthy and accurate information.
