In a major boost for President Adama Barrow’s administration, an international tribunal has fully annulled a $33.2 million arbitration award previously ordered against The Gambia, delivering a significant legal and financial victory for the West African nation.
The International Center for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) Annulment Committee ruled on 17 July 2026 in favor of The Gambia, setting aside the entire award and associated interest. The decision also paves the way for the country to recover approximately $213,000 in arbitration costs, funds that will now support national priorities such as health, education, and infrastructure.
The case stemmed from the takeover of a shrimp farm during the former regime. In March 2024, an ICSID tribunal had ordered The Gambia to pay substantial compensation to foreign investors.
Upon learning of the award, Attorney General and Minister of Justice Dawda A. Jallow briefed Cabinet. President Barrow directed the government to reject what he described as an unjust decision and to challenge it through all lawful means. Cabinet unanimously endorsed the move.
A high-powered legal team was assembled, co-led by senior Gambian counsel Edi M. O. Faal and British barrister Cherie Blair, KC of Omnia Strategy. The team successfully argued before the ICSID Annulment Committee that the original tribunal had failed to properly explain how Gambian law provided consent to ICSID arbitration — a jurisdictional flaw that went to the heart of the earlier decision.
“The outcome demonstrates that with clear political backing and careful legal work, The Gambia can defend its rights on the international stage, even against much larger opponents,” Attorney General Jallow said. He paid special tribute to President Barrow’s leadership, the legal team, state law officers, and expert witness Counsel Kebba Sanyang for their dedication throughout the two-year process.
The Ministry of Justice described the ruling as a testament to the government’s commitment to protecting national interests and upholding the rule of law. The victory frees up vital resources and strengthens The Gambia’s position in future international disputes.
