Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The United States Embassy in Banjul announced on Wednesday that it will suspend regular updates on its social media platforms due to a government shutdown in Washington, though critical services such as visas and passports are expected to continue “as the situation permits.”

“Due to the lapse in appropriations, this Facebook account will not be updated regularly until full operations resume, with the exception of urgent safety and security information,” the Embassy stated. Gambians seeking consular services, including visa processing, were advised to rely on the State Department’s official website for the latest updates.

The shutdown, which began at midnight Wednesday, followed the U.S. Congress’s failure to agree on a stopgap spending bill.

It marks the fourth federal shutdown of the 21st century and the first since 2019. The impasse centers on whether temporary funding should include an extension of subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, a demand pushed by Democrats but opposed by Republicans.

While U.S. lawmakers exchange blame, the immediate concern for Gambians remains the continuity of consular services.

Hundreds of Gambians apply annually for U.S. visas for education, business, and family visits. Disruptions in embassy operations could delay travel plans and increase uncertainty for applicants.

For now, the Embassy has assured that scheduled visa and passport services will continue. However, with no clear timeline on when lawmakers in Washington will reach a deal to reopen full government operations, Gambians relying on U.S. consular services are being urged to monitor official updates closely.

The U.S. government shutdown is expected to cause furloughs across multiple departments and agencies in America, with its ripple effects likely to be felt in embassies and consulates worldwide if it drags on.