By: Michaella Faith Wright
Ebrima Mbaye, a 22 year old Gambian journalist and fact checker, has emerged as the youngest nominee in this year’s Gambia Press Union National Journalism Awards, marking a major milestone in his rapidly rising career.
Nominated in the Agriculture Reporting category, Mbaye’s selection highlights years of perseverance, academic excellence, and impactful storytelling. Speaking on his nomination, he said the recognition affirms his commitment to public interest journalism. “This nomination is not just about me; it is about rural communities whose stories often go unheard. I am humbled, motivated, and extremely grateful,” he said.
Born on 3 March 2003 in Kerewan Samba Sira in CRR South, Mbaye currently reports for The Alkamba Times as a National Correspondent, covering agriculture, rural development, governance, and human interest stories. He also works as a Fact Checker with InfoChecked, helping combat misinformation and strengthen media literacy.
Alongside his professional work, Mbaye is pursuing a 300 level Journalism degree at the University of The Gambia while completing an Advanced Diploma in Journalism and Communication at MAJaC, where he has earned distinction from Foundation to Diploma levels. His academic record, shaped by newsroom ethics and multimedia reporting skills, complements his growing influence in the media sector.
Mbaye is also an active student leader and currently serves as President of the MAJaC Students’ Union, after previously holding communication roles both at MAJaC and UTG.
His professional growth includes completing specialised training on illicit financial flows and asset recovery, receiving a competitive investigative reporting grant, and undergoing advanced fact checking training with UNESCO, a period he describes as “a moment that strengthened my resolve” following the loss of his father.
He recently represented The Gambia at a two week international media seminar in China, broadening his global perspective and deepening his understanding of global information systems.
With a vision to become a leading disinformation analyst, Mbaye says he remains driven by integrity and service. “Journalism is my contribution to national development,” he noted.
By: Michaella Faith Wright Ebrima Mbaye, a 22 year old Gambian journalist and fact checker, has emerged as the youngest nominee in this year’s Gambia Press Union National Journalism Awards, marking a major milestone in his rapidly rising career. Nominated in the Agriculture Reporting category, Mbaye’s selection highlights years of perseverance, academic excellence, and impactful The Fatu Network