U.S. Embassy Banjul, The Gambia

19/10/2026

Ambassador Larry Socha visited the National Museum in Banjul to learn more about The Gambia’s history and cultural heritage. Senior officials of the National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC) guided him through exhibits on the country’s history, traditions, and cultural identity. The visit also included a stop at the museum’s well that continues to provide water to the area after more than 200 years.

During the visit, Ambassador Socha met Matty Jobe, the NCAC’s Marketing and Visibility Manager and an U.S. exchange program alumna. Her work shows how U.S. exchange programs strengthen people-to-people ties between the United States and The Gambia.

16/10/2026

14/10/2026

Ambassador Laurence Socha today presented his Letter of Credence to His Excellency President Adama Barrow at State House, formally beginning his tenure as United States Ambassador to the Republic of The Gambia. He was accompanied by Foreign Minister Sering Modou Njie.

Ambassador Socha and President Barrow discussed ways to strengthen the enduring partnership between the United States and The Gambia and to create new economic and commercial opportunities.

As a gesture of friendship, Ambassador Socha presented President Barrow with a set of bookends modeled after the iconic bronze lions outside the Art Institute of Chicago, in the Ambassador’s hometown. The gift symbolizes a connection between Chicago and The Gambia, where lions also feature prominently on the national coat of arms.

Ambassador Socha looks forward to working with the people of The Gambia and their government to advance safety, strength, and prosperity for Americans and Gambians alike.

12/10/2026

Happy Columbus Day!
Today, Americans observe Columbus Day, a U.S. federal holiday that commemorates Christopher Columbus's 1492 voyage and its place in American history. The day honors the courage and spirit of exploration that shaped the United States. The Embassy wishes everyone a safe and meaningful holiday.

10/10/2026

✨They're Here!🥳✨

We are excited to welcome Cohort 2026, our newest group of Peace Corps Trainees, to The Gambia!

After months of preparation, this inspiring group has officially arrived and has been welcomed with the warmth and hospitality The Smiling Coast is known for. 🇬🇲

Their journey of learning starts now. They will undergo an intensive 11 weeks of pre-service training, where they will develop the skills needed for a successful service. We can’t wait to share every step with you.

Stay tuned as we follow their training and their journey of learning, service and cultural exchange. 🇺🇸🤝🇬🇲

09/10/2026

The U.S. Embassy in Banjul will be closed on Monday, October 12, in observance of Columbus Day, a U.S. federal holiday. We will resume normal operations on Tuesday, October 13.

08/10/2026

Voting from Overseas?
U.S. citizens voting from abroad should check FVAP.gov for their state’s deadline to submit their ballot. It may be sooner than you think! www.fvap.gov/links

07/10/2026

Ambassador Laurence Socha today presented copies of his credentials to Foreign Minister Sering Modou Njie and discussed opportunities to further strengthen the longstanding partnership between the United States and The Gambia.

Ambassador Socha also brought a piece of home to share: Frango mint chocolates, a Chicago tradition, and a book about the Mississippi River – reflecting the important role great rivers play in both our countries.

06/10/2026

Welcome to The Gambia, Ambassador Socha!

The U.S. Embassy is pleased to welcome Ambassador Laurence Socha, who arrived in Banjul last night to begin his tenure as the new U.S. Ambassador to The Gambia.

Ambassador Socha brings nearly 20 years of diplomatic experience, including assignments across Africa, the Americas, and Europe. He looks forward to getting to know The Gambia and its people and to building on the strong and longstanding partnership between our two countries.

We’re delighted to welcome Ambassador Socha to The Gambia.

02/10/2026

We continue to celebrate Freedom 250 – the milestone 250th anniversary of the United States. Last week, we hosted dozens of alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs spanning 2010 to the present.

Chargé d’Affaires Robert Anderson hosted the event, reflecting on the enduring impact of U.S. exchange programs. "Each of you represents a living bridge between our two nations,” CDA Anderson said. “The relationships you have built with Americans and the leadership you continue to demonstrate in your communities strengthen the ties between our countries and create opportunities that benefit both Americans and Gambians.”

Many alumni in attendance began their journeys as emerging voices in The Gambia and have since grown into leaders across sectors.