The Gambia's President Adama Barrow has defended an alliance between his ruling National People's Party and former ruling Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction APRC, saying it was in the interest of reconciliation and national security.

He says the agreement will promote peace and reconciliation in the country.

It is the first time President Barrow has commented on the alliance with the party of former Gambian President Yahya Jammeh.

Sankulleh Janko has more in this report from Banjul.