Minister Joof confirmed that out of 39 Gambians sent to Spain under the Circular Migration Agreement earlier this year, only six returned as stipulated in their contracts. The remaining 33 vanished into thin air.
“The Spanish Consulate has issued a press release giving them until October 6, 2025, to return or face complete exclusion from the programme,” the minister declared, “Their visas have already been cancelled. Their work permits nullified. Unless they return, they have destroyed not only their own chances but also opportunities for others.”
The revelations cast a long shadow over what was initially celebrated as a historic agreement to give Gambians seasonal work opportunities abroad. The workers, Minister Joof stressed, were well-treated in Spain, accommodated in farmhouses, provided with a vehicle and bicycles, and even afforded washing machines. “Their only expense was food €20 contributions to cook for themselves,” he noted, insisting their working conditions were far from exploitative.
“But instead of returning to Banjul as required, most of the group allegedly slipped into Europe illegally.”
According to the minister, the consequences are dire; not only are the absconded workers now irregular migrants, but their actions have jeopardised ongoing negotiations with Spain and other EU states.
“At the moment, we are jittery,” Joof admitted. “A new batch of 50 workers, including 21 women, who were supposed to leave for Spain this September, is now hanging in limbo. Spain is watching. Even Poland, which requested 500 Gambian workers, may withdraw. All these opportunities are being squashed because of the reckless choices of 33 individuals.”
Members of Parliament expressed deep concern. Hon. Alhagie Babou Ceesay, member for Sabach Sanjal, asked whether the Ministry would publish the names of the absconders. Joof confirmed that details including photographs, had already been released in hopes that families could pressure their relatives to return.
“This was their best chance to live in Europe unhindered. Four years of patience would have given them permanent residency,” the minister lamented.
Hon. Lamin Ceesay, Member for Kiang West, hinted at receiving complaints of poor treatment and breaches of contract from the absconded workers. Joof dismissed the claims, insisting the Embassy in Spain and Gambian community leaders who visited them never reported such issues.
