The Gambia - Media

In 2000 there were 31,900 telephones in use, using an adequate network of microwave radio relays and open wire. There were also about 5,624 cellular phones in use. As of 2001 there were 3 AM and 2 FM radio stations and 1 television station (which was government-owned). In 2000, there were 396 radios and 3 televisions sets for every 1,000 people. Internet access is limited, with two service providers serving 5,000 users in 2001.

There is one daily newspaper, The Daily Observer , with a 2002 circulation of 2,000. Though nominally independent, there have been allegations that editorial content was swayed toward promotion of the Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction (APRC). Other newspapers include The Gambia Daily , which, in spite of its name, is actually published three mornings per week, by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting; The Foroyaa , a weekly with a circulation of 1,500; The Gambia News and Report , another weekly, also with a circulation of 1,500; and The Point , published twice a week, with a 2002 circulation of 4,000.

The old and new constitutions provide for free expression, but the government is presently said to prohibit all dissenting political publication and broadcasting.