Sunday, August 31, 2025
Home Blog Page 145

Women empowerment: Touma Njai reveals plans to re-introduce Bill

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Women empowerment: Touma Njai reveals plans to re-introduce Bill

Honourable Fatoumata Njai (Touma Njai), one of the few female parliamentarians in the Gambia’s National Assembly, has revealed that work has started to bring back her private member Constitutional Amendment Bill, which had sought to give women sixteen seats in Parliament. However, the bill was rejected due to a lack of quorum, which observers said was done deliberately to prevent the bill from passing to the next stage.

Hon. Touma Njai was re-elected for a second term in the 2022 Parliamentary election as an Independent candidate. She is currently in Freetown, Sierra Leone, to attend a dialogue forum on women’s proportional representation in politics, organised by the Ecowas female parliamentary association. She celebrates Sierra Leone for passing the gender equality law earlier this year.

“It is quite heart-warming to see them pass a bill that I shared with them because after drafting our bill, I shared it with my colleagues at the Ecowas Parliament,” said Hon. Touma Njai.

She is now urging the Government of The Gambia to emulate Sierra Leone in passing a similar law before the 2027 elections in The Gambia.

Despite the unfortunate rejection of her Bill, the outspoken Banjul South lawmaker reveals her plans to bring back the Bill in Parliament. “The groundwork has started, and we are consulting all stakeholders,” she said.

As a result of a lack of quorum, we need more women in key decision-making positions, such as the National Assembly.

Sidie Mohamed Tunis, Speaker of the Ecowas Parliament, assured the Community Parliament’s commitment to accompany The Gambia to pass a gender-equality law.

“I have already started a conversation with the Majority Leader [Billay Tunkara] of The Gambia’s Parliament, regarding the gender Bill. We want to engage all national assemblies and all stakeholders on this issue,” he concluded.

It is widely believed that women deserved to be voted in most electoral positions and not to be pushed back.

‘Let them admit that they made a mistake:’ GWA hits back at NSC

Hadram Hydara
-
0
‘Let them admit that they made a mistake:’ GWA hits back at NSC

By: Ousman Saidykhan

The Gambia Wrestling Association (GWA) has responded to the National Sports Council (NSC) which described their March 13th press conference as misleading.

The GWA called the press for their unveiling of the five-man wrestling squad that is representing the Gambia at the ECOWAS African Wrestling Championship holding from Match 17th -19th in Niamey, Niger.

During the unveiling on Monday, the GWA revealed to the press some of what they referred to as “the unfortunate circumstances meted out on the travelling wrestling team.”

Amongst the concerns of the body overseeing wrestling in the Gambia is the squad’s lack of camping and the differentness of the tracksuits for the team. However, these utterances did not go down well with the NSC.

In a press conference on the 16th of March, the NSC accused GWA of engaging in a smear campaign against them and the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

In a counter press conference in the evening of the same day, 16th March, the same day meant to “set the record straight,” GWA debunked such allegation, saying they were disappointed with the NSC for misinterpreting their statements that were just meant to inform Gambians about the circumstances the body and its members found themselves in.

“So, I think it is good that sometimes we are sincere to admit when we are at fault. If we are at fault, we will admit that we are at fault. So, the National Sports Council should admit that they faulted that the team did not go to camp; that the dresses they gave them are not in the same colours; that they gave to each wrestler D20,000 directly and not through the association (GWA).

“Let them admit that they made a mistake and not try to belittle the effort we are doing,” says the Secretary General of GWA, Ebrima Suwareh.

GWA has also debunked the NSC Executive Director Marcel Mendy’s statement that the association uses its money on marriage and naming ceremonies, a statement they took to be very disparaging of their efforts.

“It is very good to encourage people when they are trying and not to damage people when they are trying,” the president of GWA, Serign Modou Faye said.

The wrestling association said they inherited a penniless association when they came and struggled to get some funds only for them to be criticised instead of being praised.

In any case, the wrestling team is already in Niamey, Niger. However, the manner in which the NSC and Sports Ministry handled the trip has not been impressive to the GWA.

Gitteh: ‘90% of NPP members are with me’

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Gitteh: ‘90% of NPP members are with me’

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Despite the party selecting another candidate ahead of him for the Brikama Area Council Chairmanship seat, Ahmad Gitteh, who earlier today announced he will run as an independent, said ninety per cent (90%) of the National People’s Party (NPP) members are with him, and less than ten per cent are with the candidate the party chose over him.

Gitteh made this revelation at his press conference earlier this afternoon, where he announced that he will be running solo without the backing of his party.

“I believe, the NPP, ninety per cent, is in agreement with me. Less than ten per cent is going with the decision of those that conducted the primaries. They hand-picked an individual at their own will, but this is not the will of the majority.”

Gitteh, who emphatically stated that he hasn’t resigned from the NPP and will be there until the party expels him, outlined that going as an independent in the election will avail the aggrieved party members to find a place with him and express their dissatisfaction about the party’s decision in choosing Seedy Ceesay over him.

“I believe going as an independent candidate is giving those aggrieved party members that I worked with so hard to build this party to find a place to express their dissatisfaction and disagreement with the leaders of the party. So, we are going independent, and this will create an avenue for NPP to come, and we win the election and move on as a party,” he noted.

It could be recalled that the National People’s Party West Coast Region executive selection committee, in the primaries, announced that Seedy Ceesay won the primaries. However, Gitteh refuted such and said he didn’t participate in the runoff.

Speaker of ECOWAS Parliament calls for action to increase women’s representation in politics

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Speaker of ECOWAS Parliament calls for action to increase women’s representation in politics

The Speaker of ECOWAS Parliament Honourable Sidie Mohamed Tunis has called for action to increase women’s representation in politics at a two-day symposium of the ECOWAS Female Parliamentarians Association on women and youth representation in politics in Freetown, Sierra Leone.

The symposium, which kickstarted on Friday at the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Academy, is aimed at sensitising the public on proportional representation of women in politics: scaling up a political partnership between men and women.

It also intends to unleash the potential of women and youth in politics and entrepreneurship. Participants, including Honorable Touma Njai of Banjul South, women from different walks of life and students, are expected to engage in more strategic thinking to explore workable solutions that can uplift the status of women and youth in political leadership and inclusiveness.

Honourable Sidie Mohamed Tunis, Speaker of Ecowas Parliament, expressed appreciation to President Maada Bio and the Government of Sierra Leone for their commitment to championing women’s issues.

He said the Ecowas Parliament has strong beliefs in scaling up political partnerships between men and women as the right step, hoping that the symposium will inspire more governments to enact laws that ensure women occupy their rightful place in politics.

Honourable Woraye Sarr, President of ECOFEPA, said her organisation is committed to empowering women and youth by providing opportunities for their diverse participation in politics. Compared to developed countries, she said there is low political representation of youth and women in the sub-region. And it is hoped this symposium would deepen the understanding of the critical role of women and youth in politics.

While many have recognised the important role of women and youth in nation development, these groups however continue to be marginalized in our society, hence the need for practical actions to change the status quo.

Honourable Veronica Sisay, Women’s Caucus Leader of Sierra Leone’s Parliament and a member of ECOFEPA, added that the symposium is part of efforts to resolve the problem women and youth face. She encouraged all political parties to consider nominating women for key electoral positions in the subsequent general elections in Sierra Leone.

“It is even hoped that we [Sierra Leone] will exceed the Rwanda percentage, considering the enthusiasm of the sitting President Julius Maada Bio that he has for gender issues. The accomplishment of a 30 per cent quota reserve for women in Government and all levels of decision-making guarantees that women are going to be represented equally,” said Honorable Sisay.

She believes that women’s involvement is meaningless without proper representation, which is only possible through legislation that promotes this cause.

In common with previous several speakers, including Bindi Hindowa, Sierra Leone’s Acting Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs; Pa Lamin Beyai, UNDP Country Representative; and Manuel Muller, EU Ambassador, believe such an interactive forum will further promote leadership and empowerment of women and youth on the African continent, which ECOFEPA had and continues to advocate.

They all thanked and commended ECOFEPA for organising the event.
In the ECOWAS region, the first, and so far, only elected female head of state has been Liberia’s, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf.

For the Ecowas Female Parliamentarians Association (ECOFEPA) members, there is a need to bridge the gap by initiating the conversation to change the political narrative. The current group of Ecowas female parliamentarians is making sure the issue is not pushed to the back of the collective agenda.

Hands off! Court orders land ministry, AG against touching suit land

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Hands off! Court orders land ministry, AG against touching suit land

By: Ousman Saidykhan

Justice S. B Tabally of the Brikama High Court has ordered the Gambia’s Ministry of Land, Regional Government and Religious Affairs together with the Attorney General to stay away from a suit land in Old Yundum, which is said to belong to the Manjang and Manneh families.

The prohibitory injunction came after the plaintiff, S and J Properties Company Limited filed an ex parte motion on the 9th of March 2023 for the 1st and 2nd defendants; Land Ministry and AG to be restrained from touching the land.

Justice Tabally said he has carefully examined the plaintiff’s submissions and ordered “an interim injunction against the defendants restraining them whether by themselves, their agents, servants, workers or otherwise whosoever from demolition, entering or causing to be entered and/or interfering with the suit land or any part thereof situated at Old Yundum…”

The case has been adjourned to the 10th of May 2023 at 10 a.m. for mention.

The plot measuring 335m x 185m x 304m x 65m Square is located between Swami India Housing Estate and the Army Camp in Old Yundum.

According to our source, the land minister wants to use the name of a building permit to demolish hundreds of structures and later use the land for what our anonymous source calls “their already-known concealed plan”.

A plot allocation letter by the land minister bearing the stamps of the Land Ministry and Department of Land and survey has been seen by this medium.

Our source told us the minister has already given a demolition order to the IGP who has also passed the order without any compensation agreement with the owners.

This alleged demolition order has been made before Justice Tabally’s injunction order, given yesterday, 16th March 2023.

Kerr Fatou has reported that the permanent secretary for the land ministry, Buba Sanyang said he was not aware of the issue being at the court but said demolition will “surely” happen.

Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu: 6-Packs come with a risk of depression

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu: 6-Packs come with a risk of depression

By Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu

6-Packs come with a risk of depression

I chanced on this important study in the men’s health article in the Times of India (2018) and I want to share it with you. We cannot be wiser than God indeed. Well, today, the craving for body enhancement in both males and females has dominated the airwaves. But we don’t also look at the negative aspect of these body enhancements. We look at the interlocutory benefits.

One well Studies from researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Harvard University investigated the link between male body image issues and mental health.

A researcher interviewed 2,460 men aged 18-32 about their gym habits, and about 10% of them have “body-image disorder.”  They found that body-obsessed men have a higher risk of not only depression but also weekend binge drinking, and using illegal supplements, including anabolic steroids.

With this disorder, they will feel guilty when missing out on one workout even while they are in excellent shape; they will still feel the need to be thinner.

Apart from that, 6 Pack Abs Interfere With Your Breathing. Your breathing consists of your lungs, diaphragm, and accessory respiratory muscles. The “Rectus Abdominis Muscle,” what we know as the 6-pack, is directly connected to the lower part of your ribcage.

When your abs are in a contracted state, it will further pull your ribcage down and restrict the free gliding movement of the lungs and interfere with your breathing.

6-Packs?

The term “six-pack’” typically refers to the rectus abdominis muscle. Flynn and Vickerton, nd) explained that the rectus abdominis muscle runs from the sternum to the pubic bone and is responsible for dynamically flexing the spine forward.  Some Studies have shown, though, that this muscle is not necessarily effective as a stabilizer of the spine(Kim and Lee 2017; Stokes et al. 2011).

Tyler Read (2021) explained in his article that, the moniker “six-pack” comes from its appearance of visible rows of 4–8 distinct muscular segments that you can see on individuals with relatively low body fat.

Although many additional important muscles comprise your core, the rectus abdominis is the most superficial one.

As such, it’s the muscle that gives chiselled abs their distinct appearance. Likewise, because it’s the outermost layer of the ab muscle, it does not do much in terms of stability of the spinal column.

Visibility of 6-Pack

The major issue that has to do with six-pack visibility is the amount of subcutaneous body fat ststoredround the stomach.

We have been advised that the fact that one does not have visible six-pack abdominals doesn’t mean our core is weak, or even that you are carrying excess weight.

Traditionally, visible six-pack abs need a body fat percentage far lower than that required for general health benefits.

One study (Branco et al. 2018) recommended that a normal range for body fat percentage is 17.6–25.3% in males and 28.8–35.7% in females.

There is no universally accepted body fat percentage at which six-packs become visible, typical ballpark ranges are 10–12% body fat for men and 16–20% body fat for women.

Besides, Tyler Read (2021) opined that these figures are too low for those needed for optimal general health and fitness despite the popular association between visible abs and optimal fitness.

This notwithstanding, he pointed to one article by Harvard Health that asserts that the excess visceral fat, which is located deeper in the abdomen and surrounds our organs, is far more dangerous to our health than excess subcutaneous fat, which lies just under our skin and coves our muscles from the outside.

Hence, he believes that more levels of visceral fat may not affect the visibility of the six-pack to the same extent as subcutaneous fat, even though excess visceral fat is a greater health concern.

Also, genetics as well influences where you store body fat, which greatly influences the specific body fat percentage at which your abs will be visible. Tyler Read (2021) notes that if one stores more fat in the hips, the abs will be visible at higher body fat percentages and vice versa.

Lifestyle factors, such as sleep and stress levels, also affect fat gains, which will affect the visibility of your abs.

He justified this with one study by Cooper et al. (2018) that found regularly sleeping less than 7 hours was linked with greater rates of obesity and weight gain. They also found that sleep deprivation has negative effects on ghrelin, leptin, and insulin, which are key hormones for regulating hunger and fat storage in the body.

Another study by Valk et al. (2018) found that higher stress levels, as reflected by greater glucocorticoid activity, were also associated with increased rates of obesity.

Despite the above factors, a surplus calorie intake will typically lead to fat gains over time, which will decrease the visibility of your six-pack — independent of any other factors.

Should 6 Packs be the major goal in exercise?

Read had this to say: “While it’s OK to strive for aesthetic fitness goals like having visible abs, the truth is that your core and abdominals play a much more important role than just being nice to look at. The rectus abdominis is just one of many muscles in the so-called core, which is a series of muscles that span the hips to the thoracic spine and include superficial and deep layers, as well as different muscles along the front, side, and back of your lower torso. Collectively, the core muscles stabilize the spine and allow it to bend and twist as required for functional activities. The biggest benefits of core training have nothing to do with visible abdominals. Furthermore, the abdominals are just one of many core muscles you should target in your routine”.

He further says: Additional core muscles that play a vital role include:

  • transverse abdominis
  • multifidus
  • diaphragm
  • pelvic floor
  • internal and external obliques
  • quadratus lumborum

A large body of evidence supports core training for a variety of improved outcomes across different populations.

For instance, Hsu et al. (2018) study found that 4 weeks of core strength training enhanced performance on sudden perturbation tasks, which correlates to our ability to catch ourselves and stand upright when we’re about to fall over.

Also, another study by Hung et al. (2019) found that for athletic performance, additional research found that an 8-week core training program enhanced static balance, core endurance, and running economy in college running athletes.

Finally, Chang et al. (2015) study on core training and low back pain found that all core routines studied enhanced lower back pain. Frequent ones that targeted the deeper core muscles, such as the transverse abdominis and multifidus, had the greatest positive effects on lower back pain.

Read finally summed it all: “It’s worth noting that training the core may help build more muscle mass in that region, which will add more contour to your six-pack and potentially allow it to be visible at slightly higher body fat levels.

However, you will still need to have relatively low body fat for this effect to occur, and the main reasons to train the core have more to do with performance and health benefits rather than aesthetic appearances”.

In conclusion, getting six packs alone is not enough and researchers believe that those who engaged in them have no confidence in themselves, they drink more as well and have mental health issues leading to depression because they are not happy with their natural bodies.

Also, six-packs don’t automatically make you fit, but they also don’t mean you’re underweight or addicted to exercise. Those abs aren’t great correlations for much of anything and these are not markers of health and wellness.

NB:

Prof. Nyarkotey has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations to justify his write-ups.  My articles are for educational purposes and do not serve as Medical advice for Treatment. I aim to educate the public about evidence-based scientific Naturopathic Therapies.

The writer is a Professor of Naturopathic Healthcare, a Medical Journalist, and a science writer. President, Nyarkotey College of Holistic Medicine & Technology (NUCHMT), African Naturopathic Foundation, Ashaiman, Ghana. E. mail: [email protected].

References

Kim BJ, Lee SK. Effects of three spinal stabilization techniques on activation and thickness of abdominal muscle. J Exerthe c Rehabil. 2017 Apr 30;13(2):206-209. doi: 10.12965/jer.1734900.450. PMID: 28503534; PMCID: PMC5412495.

Stokes IA, Gardner-Morse MG, Henry SM. Abdominal muscle activation increases lumbar spinal stability: analysis of contributions of different muscle groups. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon). 2011 Oct;26(8):797-803. doi: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2011.04.006. Epub 2011 May 14. PMID: 21571410; PMCID: PMC3157598

 

Cooper CB, Neufeld EV, Dolezal BA, Martin JL. Sleep deprivation and obesity in adults: a brief narrative review. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med. 2018 Oct 4;4(1):e000392. doi: 10.1136/bmjsem-2018-000392. PMID: 30364557; PMCID: PMC6196958.

Branco BHM, Bernuci MP, Marques DC, Carvalho IZ, Barrero CAL, de Oliveira FM, Ladeia GF, Júnior NN. Proposal of a normative table for body fat percentages of Brazilian young adults through bioimpedanciometry. J Exerc Rehabil. 2018 Dec 27;14(6):974-979. doi: 10.12965/jer.1836400.200. PMID: 30656157; PMCID: PMC6323334.

van der Valk ES, Savas M, van Rossum EFC. Stress and Obesity: Are There More Susceptible Individuals? Curr Obes Rep. 2018 Jun;7(2):193-203. doi: 10.1007/s13679-018-0306-y. PMID: 29663153; PMCID: PMC5958156.

Hsu SL, Oda H, Shirahata S, Watanabe M, Sasaki M. Effects of core strength training on core stability. J Phys Ther Sci. 2018 Aug;30(8):1014-1018. doi: 10.1589/jpts.30.1014. Epub 2018 Jul 24. PMID: 30154592; PMCID: PMC6110226.

Chang WD, Lin HY, Lai PT. Core strength training for patients with chronic low back pain. J Phys Ther Sci. 2015 Mar;27(3):619-22. doi: 10.1589/jpts.27.619. Epub 2015 Mar 31. PMID: 25931693; PMCID: PMC4395677.

Hung KC, Chung HW, Yu CC, Lai HC, Sun FH. Effects of 8-week core training on core endurance and running economy. PLoS One. 2019 Mar 8;14(3):e0213158. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0213158. PMID: 30849105; PMCID: PMC6407754.

From Senegal to Morocco: Why GFF chose Casablanca over Dakar for Gambia’s home game

Hadram Hydara
-
0
From Senegal to Morocco: Why GFF chose Casablanca over Dakar for Gambia’s home game

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

With the country’s only football stadium still deemed unfit to host international matches, the Gambia Football Federation has chosen Morocco over Senegal for the Scorpions’ home game against Mali due to logistical concerns, and financial and technical considerations that favour the federation regardless of the potential huge fan turnout in Senegal.

On June 4, 2022, the Gambia used Stade lati dore in Thies, Senegal for its home game against the Bright Stars of South Sudan, however, they shunned the whole of Senegal this time for Morocco regardless of the proximity of the two countries.

Speaking to The Fatu Network, the Director of Communications at The Gambia Football Federation, Mr. Baboucarr Camara, explained why the federation picked Morocco over Senegal. He revealed that the North African nation will avail them to use the stadium at no cost, and pointed out that they have better facilities compared to neighbours, Senegal.

“Logistics, financial and as well technical considerations; all these in Morocco are the best options. They have better facilities in terms of training and accommodation. They will avail the stadium to us for free, unlike Senegal where Lat Dior is banned and Diamniadou is a Public-private partnership and quite expensive,” Camara explained when quizzed on why the federation chose Morocco for its home game over neighbours Senegal.

The GFF Director of Communications further explained that in terms of travelling and players to and from the camp, Morocco is much more apt than Senegal.

“Also, in terms of travelling, Casablanca is a major hub where all our players coming for the game have direct flights from their destinations to the place, unlike Senegal where most of the players will have to transit. That will delay their arrival and affect our technical preparations and also delay their return to their clubs as well,” he added.

In June 2022, when the Gambia played in Thies against South Sudan, scores of Gambians made the journey to cheer up the team. This was due to its proximity to the Gambia. The crowd in Thies seems not to be too impressed by the federation and thereby not considering the need for Gambians to travel and support the players. Morocco, a country miles away from the Gambia, may see only a few Gambians travel to support the scorpions.

Komma Camara, a Gambian football fan, said the country playing its home game in a faraway country is something difficult for him to understand.

“Playing our home game far from home is something very difficult to understand or accept as a Gambian sports lover. The boys will not get the home fans’ support as host, which is disadvantageous to us despite other advantages,” he claimed.

The scorpions will face Mali at Stade Muhammed V in Casablanca on March 28.

Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu: Chewing Gum improves academic performance

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu: Chewing Gum improves academic performance

By Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu  

Chewing Gum improves academic performance

This article seems funny though, but I am tempted to do this write-up due to the many female students I have seen who are glued to their gum. It appears that some are addicted to their gum and cannot do away with it. But the question is what are the health benefits of chewing gum?

What is chewing Gum?

The Health line writer notes that chewing gum is a soft, rubbery substance that’s designed to be chewed but not swallowed. Helen West (2021) article further held that the chewing gum recipes can differ based on brands, but they all have the following basic ingredients:

  • Gum. This is the nondigestible, rubbery base used to give gum its chewy quality.
  • Resin: This is usually added to strengthen gum and hold it together.
  • Fillers. Fillers, such as calcium carbonate or talc, are used to give gum texture.
  • Preservatives. These are added to extend shelf life. The most popular choice is an organic compound called butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT).
  • Softeners. These are used to retain moisture and prevent the gum from hardening. They can include waxes like paraffin or vegetable oils.
  • Sweeteners. Cane sugar, beet sugar, and corn syrup are popular sweeteners. Sugar-free gums use sugar alcohols such as xylitol or artificial sweeteners such as aspartame.
  • Flavorings. Natural or synthetic flavorings are added to give gum the desired taste.

Most chewing gum manufacturers keep their exact recipes a secret. They often refer to their specific combination of gum, resin, filler, softeners, and antioxidants as their “gum base.” All ingredients used in the processing of chewing gum have to be “food grade” and classified as fit for human consumption.

Chewing Gum, Science

Reduces Stress and boosts memory

Five studies (Hirano and Onozuka, 2015; Allen and Smith, 2015; Chen et al. 2015; Hirano and Onozuka, 2014; Hirano et al. 2013) demonstrate that chewing gum enhances brain function, including alertness, memory, understanding, and decision-making.

Also, a recent randomized controlled trial by Yaman-Sözbir et al. (2019) established that students who chewed gum over 7 or 19 days had reduced scores for depression, anxiety, and stress compared to those who did not. Those who chewed gum also achieved greater academic success.  These studies are beginning to wow me to start chewing as well.  Check this one as well: Tucha and Simpson, (2011) also found that chewing gum could provide a bit of a distraction when performing any task at the start but could help you focus for longer periods.

Another, Onyper et al. (2011) found an impact of chewing gum during the first 15–20 minutes of a task.  It is interesting how just chewing gum improves memory. Some say that memory improvement is due to increased blood flow to the brain caused by chewing gum.

Two more studies (Smith et al. 2012; Smith, A, 2013) also confirmed that chewing gum could decrease stress and increase feelings of attentiveness.

In a small study (Smith and Woods, 2012) on university students, chewing gum for 2 weeks reduced participants’ feelings of stress, especially about academic workload. As to why this is so in academic performances.  Two studies (Kubo et al. 2015; Konno et al. 2016) explained that it has to do with the art of chewing which has been linked to reduced levels of stress hormones such as cortisol.

Though Allen et al. 2015 study found that chewing gum improves memory only at the time of chewing the gum.  Smith, A (2016) on the other hand, found that the impact is more on those who chew throughout the day.

Chewing gum improves weight loss

Studies found that Chewing gum could benefit those trying to lose weight. This is because it’s both sweet and low in calories, giving you a sweet taste without negatively affecting your diet.

Two studies (Xu et al. 2015; Lasschuijt et al. 2020) found that chewing gum could reduce appetite, which may avert overeating.

One small study (Park et al. 2016) also found that chewing gum between meals reduced feelings of hunger and decreased consumption of high-carb snacks in the afternoon.

Another small study (Kanno et al. 2019) found that chewing gum while walking could help burn more calories.

Other studies reported different findings. For instance, two studies (Mattes and Considine, 2013; Shikany et al. 2012) found that chewing gum does not affect appetite or energy intake over a day.

Though, one study (Swoboda and Temple, 2013) also held that those who chewed gum were less likely to snack on fruit.  This could be because the participants were chewing minty gum before eating, which made the fruit taste bad.

Finally, Kresge and Melanson (2015) agreed that chewing gum may enhance metabolic rate.

 Chewing gum improves breath, and protects teeth

Chewing sugar-free gum could help protect your teeth from cavities.

It’s better for your teeth than regular, sugar-sweetened gum. This is because sugar feeds the “bad” bacteria in your mouth, which can damage your teeth.

However, some sugar-free gums are better than others when it comes to dental health.

Xu et al. (2015) found that chewing gum sweetened with the sugar alcohol xylitol is more effective than other sugar-free gums at averting tooth decay.  Two studies (Takeuchi et al. 2018; Chavan et al. 2015) explained that xylitol averts the growth of the bacteria that cause tooth decay and bad breath.

One study (Bahador et al. 2012) found that chewing xylitol-sweetened gum reduced the number of bad bacteria in the mouth by up to 75%.

Finally, Wessel et al. (2016) held that chewing gum after a meal increases saliva flow thus washing away harmful sugars and food debris, both of which feed bacteria in the mouth.

Warnings

Apart from the numerous benefits, chewing too much gum could cause some unwanted side effects. Moderation is always the key to everything.

Sugar-free gums contain laxatives and FODMAPs

The sugar alcohols used to sweeten sugar-free gum have a laxative effect when consumed in large amounts. In one study, Liauw and Saibil (2019) found that chewing lots of sugar-free gum could cause digestive distress and diarrhea.  Furthermore, all sugar alcohols are FODMAPs, which can cause digestive problems for people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Sugar-sweetened gum is bad for dental and metabolic health

Chewing gum sweetened with sugar is bad for the teeth. For instance, Rugg-Gunn, A (2013) explained that sugar is digested by the bad bacteria in the mouth, causing an increase in the amount of plaque on the teeth and tooth decay over time.

Additionally, Bray and Popkin, (2014) also held that eating too much sugar is also linked with several health conditions such as obesity, insulin resistance, and diabetes.

Chewing gum too much causes problems with the jaw

Frequent chewing could lead to a jaw problem called temporomandibular disorder (TMD), which causes pain when you chew. Two studies (Tabrizi et al. 2014; Correia et al. 2014) found a link between excessive chewing and TMD.

Chewing gum, headaches

Lippi et al. (2015) review suggests that frequently chewing gum could cause headaches in those prone to migraine episodes and tension-type headaches, though more research is needed.

Take Home

The recommended is sugar-free gum made with xylitol.  However, for those with IBS. Sugar-free gum contains FODMAPs, which can cause digestive problems. Also, choose a gum sweetened with a low-calorie sweetener such as stevia. Chewing gum is generally safe, always read the label.

NB:

Prof. Nyarkotey has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations to justify his write-ups.  My articles are for educational purposes and do not serve as Medical advice for Treatment. I aim to educate the public about evidence-based scientific Naturopathic Therapies.

The writer is a Professor of Naturopathic Healthcare, a Medical Journalist, and a science writer. President, Nyarkotey College of Holistic Medicine & Technology (NUCHMT), African Naturopathic Foundation, Ashaiman, Ghana. E. mail: [email protected].

References

Hirano Y, Onozuka M. Chewing and attention: a positive effect on sustained attention. Biomed Res Int. 2015;2015:367026. doi: 10.1155/2015/367026. Epub 2015 May 17. PMID: 26075234; PMCID: PMC4449948.

Allen AP, Smith AP. Chewing gum: cognitive performance, mood, well-being, and associated physiology. Biomed Res Int. 2015;2015:654806. doi: 10.1155/2015/654806. Epub 2015 May 17. PMID: 26075253; PMCID: PMC4449949.

Chen H, Iinuma M, Onozuka M, Kubo KY. Chewing Maintains Hippocampus-Dependent Cognitive Function. Int J Med Sci. 2015 Jun 9;12(6):502-9. doi: 10.7150/ijms.11911. PMID: 26078711; PMCID: PMC4466515.

Hirano Y, Onozuka M. [Chewing and cognitive function]. Brain Nerve. 2014 Jan;66(1):25-32. Japanese. PMID: 24371128.

Hirano Y, Obata T, Takahashi H, Tachibana A, Kuroiwa D, Takahashi T, Ikehira H, Onozuka M. Effects of chewing on cognitive processing speed. Brain Cogn. 2013 Apr;81(3):376-81. doi: 10.1016/j.bandc.2012.12.002. Epub 2013 Jan 29. PMID: 23375117.

Yaman-Sözbir Ş, Ayaz-Alkaya S, Bayrak-Kahraman B. Effect of chewing gum on stress, anxiety, depression, self-focused attention, and academic success: A randomized controlled study. Stress Health. 2019 Oct;35(4):441-446. doi: 10.1002/smi.2872. Epub 2019 Jun 14. PMID: 31125164.

Tucha L, Simpson W. The role of time on task performance in modifying the effects of gum chewing on attention. Appetite. 2011 Apr;56(2):299-301. doi: 10.1016/j.appet.2010.12.021. Epub 2010 Dec 28. PMID: 21192998.

Onyper SV, Carr TL, Farrar JS, Floyd BR. Cognitive advantages of chewing gum. Now you see them, now you don’t. Appetite. 2011 Oct;57(2):321-8. doi: 10.1016/j.appet.2011.05.313. Epub 2011 May 27. PMID: 21645566.

 

Smith AP, Chaplin K, Wadsworth E. Chewing gum, occupational stress, work performance and wellbeing. An intervention study. Appetite. 2012 Jun;58(3):1083-6. doi: 10.1016/j.appet.2012.02.052. Epub 2012 Mar 3. PMID: 22390954.

Smith A. Effects of chewing gum on stress and health: a replication and investigation of dose-response. Stress Health. 2013 Apr;29(2):172-4. doi: 10.1002/smi.2430. Epub 2012 Apr 11. PMID: 22496105.

Smith AP, Woods M. Effects of chewing gum on the stress and work of university students. Appetite. 2012 Jun;58(3):1037-40. doi: 10.1016/j.appet.2012.02.054. Epub 2012 Mar 5. PMID: 22402304.

Kubo KY, Iinuma M, Chen H. Mastication as a Stress-Coping Behavior. Biomed Res Int. 2015;2015:876409. doi: 10.1155/2015/876409. Epub 2015 May 18. PMID: 26090453; PMCID: PMC4450283.

Konno M, Takeda T, Kawakami Y, Suzuki Y, Kawano Y, Nakajima K, Ozawa T, Ishigami K, Takemura N, Sakatani K. Relationships Between Gum-Chewing and Stress. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2016;876:343-349. doi: 10.1007/978-1-4939-3023-4_43. PMID: 26782231.

Smith AP. Chewing gum and stress reduction. J Clin Transl Res. 2016 Apr 24;2(2):52-54. PMID: 30873461; PMCID: PMC6410656

Xu J, Xiao X, Li Y, Zheng J, Li W, Zhang Q, Wang Z. The effect of gum chewing on blood GLP-1 concentration in fasted, healthy, non-obese men. Endocrine. 2015 Sep;50(1):93-8. doi: 10.1007/s12020-015-0566-1. Epub 2015 Mar 11. PMID: 25758865; PMCID: PMC4546692.

Lasschuijt M, Mars M, de Graaf C, Smeets PAM. How oro-sensory exposure and eating rate affect satiation and associated endocrine responses-a randomized trial. Am J Clin Nutr. 2020 Jun 1;111(6):1137-1149. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/nqaa067. PMID: 32320002; PMCID: PMC7266691.

Park E, Edirisinghe I, Inui T, Kergoat S, Kelley M, Burton-Freeman B. Short-term effects of chewing gum on satiety and afternoon snack intake in healthy weight and obese women. Physiol Behav. 2016 May 15;159:64-71. doi: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2016.03.002. Epub 2016 Mar 3. PMID: 26948161.

Kanno S, Shimo K, Ando T, Hamada Y, Miyashita M, Osawa K. Gum chewing while walking increases fat oxidation and energy expenditure. J Phys Ther Sci. 2019 May;31(5):435-439. doi: 10.1589/jpts.31.435. Epub 2019 May 10. PMID: 31164781; PMCID: PMC6511506.

Mattes RD, Considine RV. Oral processing effort, appetite and acute energy intake in lean and obese adults. Physiol Behav. 2013 Aug 15;120:173-81. doi: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2013.08.013. Epub 2013 Aug 15. PMID: 23954409; PMCID: PMC3811075.

Shikany JM, Thomas AS, McCubrey RO, Beasley TM, Allison DB. Randomized controlled trial of chewing gum for weight loss. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2012 Mar;20(3):547-52. doi: 10.1038/oby.2011.336. Epub 2011 Nov 10. PMID: 22076595.

Swoboda C, Temple JL. Acute and chronic effects of gum chewing on food reinforcement and energy intake. Eat Behav. 2013 Apr;14(2):149-56. doi: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2013.01.011. Epub 2013 Feb 13. PMID: 23557811.

Kresge DL, Melanson K. Chewing gum increases energy expenditure before and after controlled breakfasts. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2015 Apr;40(4):401-6. doi: 10.1139/apnm-2014-0232. Epub 2014 Dec 18. PMID: 25794237.

Xu J, Xiao X, Li Y, Zheng J, Li W, Zhang Q, Wang Z. The effect of gum chewing on blood GLP-1 concentration in fasted, healthy, non-obese men. Endocrine. 2015 Sep;50(1):93-8. doi: 10.1007/s12020-015-0566-1. Epub 2015 Mar 11. PMID: 25758865; PMCID: PMC4546692.

Takeuchi K, Asakawa M, Hashiba T, Takeshita T, Saeki Y, Yamashita Y. Effects of xylitol-containing chewing gum on the oral microbiota. J Oral Sci. 2018 Dec 27;60(4):588-594. doi: 10.2334/josnusd.17-0446. Epub 2018 Nov 15. PMID: 30429438.

Chavan S, Lakashminarayan N, Kemparaj U. Effect of Chewing Xylitol Containing and Herbal Chewing Gums on Salivary Mutans Streptococcus Count among School Children. Int J Prev Med. 2015 May 22;6:44. doi: 10.4103/2008-7802.157543. PMID: 26097673; PMCID: PMC4455121.

Bahador A, Lesan S, Kashi N. Effect of xylitol on cariogenic and beneficial oral streptococci: a randomized, double-blind crossover trial. Iran J Microbiol. 2012 Jun;4(2):75-81. PMID: 22973473; PMCID: PMC3434645.

Wessel SW, van der Mei HC, Maitra A, Dodds MW, Busscher HJ. Potential benefits of chewing gum for the delivery of oral therapeutics and its possible role in oral healthcare. Expert Opin Drug Deliv. 2016 Oct;13(10):1421-31. doi: 10.1080/17425247.2016.1193154. Epub 2016 Jun 3. PMID: 27223231.

Liauw S, Saibil F. Sorbitol: Often forgotten cause of osmotic diarrhea. Can Fam Physician. 2019 Aug;65(8):557-558. PMID: 31413027; PMCID: PMC6693595.

Rugg-Gunn A. Dental caries: strategies to control this preventable disease. Acta Med Acad. 2013 Nov;42(2):117-30. doi: 10.5644/ama2006-124.80. PMID: 24308392.

Bray GA, Popkin BM. Dietary sugar and body weight: have we reached a crisis in the epidemic of obesity and diabetes?: health be damned! Pour on the sugar. Diabetes Care. 2014 Apr;37(4):950-6. doi: 10.2337/dc13-2085. PMID: 24652725; PMCID: PMC9514031.

Tabrizi R, Karagah T, Aliabadi E, Hoseini SA. Does gum chewing increase the prevalence of temporomandibular disorders in individuals with gum chewing habits? J Craniofac Surg. 2014 Sep;25(5):1818-21. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000000993. PMID: 25203577.

Correia D, Real Dias MC, Castanho Moacho A, Crispim P, Luis H, Oliveira M, Carames J. An association between temporomandibular disorder and gum chewing. Gen Dent. 2014 Nov-Dec;62(6):e33-6. PMID: 25369399.

Lippi G, Cervellin G, Mattiuzzi C. Gum-Chewing and Headache: An Underestimated Trigger of Headache Pain in Migraineurs? CNS Neurol Disord Drug Targets. 2015;14(6):786-90. doi: 10.2174/1871527314666150225143105. PMID: 25714969.

 

Will Gitteh contest as an independent candidate despite signing a pledge to support any chosen NPP candidate?

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Will Gitteh contest as an independent candidate despite signing a pledge to support any chosen NPP candidate?

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

“Whoever is selected here, I will be your Khalid Ibn Wali, I will do the fight for you”, Ahmad Gitteh promised when he was given a minute opportunity to talk to the delegates shortly before the National People’s Party’s March 8 primaries. This happened a few minutes after he signed the pledged document read by Demba Sabally, the First Vice President of the party.

Now that NPP’s ticket is beyond his reach, will Ahmad Gitteh contest as an independent candidate despite signing a pledge to support whoever is selected by the NPP?

On March 8, 2023, at the Regional Education Directorate region 2 hall, Ahmad Gitteh, just like all the six applicants signed a pledge to support whoever is selected by the delegates as the candidate for the party.

After signing the pledge, Gitteh could not win the 8 March primary as announced by Abba Sanyang, and eventually boycotted the runoff claiming foul play and that he had in fact won the first primaries.

When he was given the opportunity to talk to delegates, Gitteh, regarding the pledge for support, said: “If I were a woman, I would have carried the pregnancy of this party in giving birth to it. Whoever is selected here, I will be your Khalid Ibn Wali, I will do all the fight for you,” he uttered, which was greeted with applause.

Gitteh, who claimed to be a founding member of the party, is now expected to go solo against Seedy Ceesay and others for the top seat in the Brikama Area Council.

Even before the NPP’s primary, Gitteh, on many occasions, said he would contest regardless of whether NPP backed him or not. But with the signing of the support pledge and no public resignation from the party yet, will Gitteh go against his party?

Team Gitteh, a group of people backing Gitteh, announced that they will be organizing a press conference tomorrow. It is not clear if Ahmad Gitteh will resign and go against his pledge, but the writing is on the wall for all to read. Let’s see what the May election has in store for us.

Borom Buzz: Gitteh’s political career doomed by five cardinal mistakes in NPP

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Borom Buzz: Gitteh’s political career doomed by five cardinal mistakes in NPP

In a fiery Facebook live broadcast from the confines of his car, Ebou Bah, widely known as Serigne Chapa Cholly Borom Buzz, has raised five key reasons why Ahmed Gitteh, Brikama Area Council Chairmanship hopeful, would not be selected by the National People’s Party (NPP). Borom Buzz, a staunch NPP supporter, claimed that Gitteh’s missteps, including attacking the President and his family, and disloyalty to the party, should lead to his dismissal from the party. 

In a high-pitched voice, Serign Chapa began by citing Gitteh’s controversial comments about the president’s marriage. He recalled how Gitteh had questioned why Mandinka elders prefer to marry outside of their ethnicity, and had accused the president of doing the same. This, according to Borom Buzz, was Gitteh’s first mistake.

Borom Buzz then moved on to Gitteh’s opposition to the NPP’s chosen candidate for the Brikama South parliamentary seat, which many pundits and political observers believe could have cost the party the seat citing the good chunk of the votes that went to the independent. This comes after people pleaded with him to not side with or campaign for the independent as a member of the NPP. “Where is the loyalty in this?” Borom Buzz asked.

Mistake number three, according to Borom Buzz, was Gitteh’s social media outbursts against the president and his family, particularly the First Lady. He accused Gitteh of making name-calling and threatening to destroy the First Family even after being warned against doing so.

Borom Buzz went on to highlight Gitteh’s perceived arrogance, referencing his claim that he is more educated than the president, except for Lawyer Darboe. “No one is more educated than him,” Borom Buzz emphasized, “but Gitteh had the audacity to claim that he is.”

Finally, Borom Buzz criticized Gitteh for attacking West Coast Region elders during his campaign to be the nominee for the NPP. In a Facebook live, Gitteh had questioned whether the elders were “crazy enough” to elect his rival, Seedy Ceesay, who went on to be nominated by the NPP.

Serigne Chapa Cholly Borom Buzz concluded his live broadcast by arguing that anyone who goes against the NPP top brass should be excluded from the party, regardless of their past contributions. “These are all red flags,” he warned, “and they should have disqualified Gitteh and dismissed him from the NPP even before we reached this stage.

While Serigne Chapa Cholly Borom Buzz has listed these reasons as to why the NPP will not select Ahmed Gitteh as its candidate for the Brikama Area Council Chairmanship, it is up to the party’s leadership to make the final decision.

In spite of the reasons stated by Borom Buzz against selecting Gitteh as the candidate for the Brikama Area Council Chairmanship, he still holds out hope that the president will take heed of his message. Borom Buzz believes that the president’s veto power should be utilized to ensure Gitteh’s candidacy in order to promote peace within the NPP party.

However, it is important to note that loyalty, humility, and respect are essential traits that every politician should possess.

Regardless of where one stands, it is evident that political loyalties run deep and often dictate the course of action. As the election approaches, only time will tell if the NPP’s decision will help or hinder their chances of success in the Brikama Area Council chairmanship.

Njie Manneh Calls Out NPP’s ‘Naffikol Sampur San’, Defends Gitteh!

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Njie Manneh Calls Out NPP’s ‘Naffikol Sampur San’, Defends Gitteh!

The mellifluous voice of Njie Manneh resonates through the airwaves of the Gambian political landscape, greeting listeners with his signature catchphrase, “Assamalekum Baading Forumol”. With the click of a button, his daily Whatsapp audios are shared across numerous forums, as he holds forth on the latest developments in the country’s political scene, with a keen focus on his own political party. In his latest audio circulating on WhatsApp forums, the ‘Nyancho’ described some members of the NPP rank-and-file as “Naffikol Sampur San,” who smile at Ahmed Gitteh’s face, but then go behind his back and collude against him.

Njie Manneh’s Whatsapp audios have become a staple for political enthusiasts in The Gambia, offering a unique and often humorous perspective on current affairs. He is not afraid to voice his opinions, even if they are at odds with those of his own party.

Recently, Manneh turned his sharp tongue to the ongoing political drama within the National People’s Party (NPP), and he didn’t hold back. With his trademark blend of sarcasm and biting humour, he called out the hypocrisy of NPP members who are fighting tooth and nail against Ahmed Gitteh.

One of the issues that has caught his attention recently is the internal strife within the NPP. In his audios, he has spoken out against the hypocrisy of party members who smile at Ahmed Gitteh’s face but then undermine him behind his back. He has coined the term “Naffikol Sampur San” to describe such people.

“Despite Gitteh’s extensive efforts and contributions to the NPP, his rival Ceesay is receiving more support. This is hypocrisy at its finest,” the WhatsApp Forum Commentator said.

Njie Manneh went on to criticize the selection process for the Brikama Area Council Chairmanship, pointing to the ongoing feud between Ahmed Gitteh and Seedy Ceesay within the NPP. “What Gitteh has done for the NPP is nothing short of impressive,” Manneh noted, “yet his rival, Seedy Ceesay, is receiving more support. It’s all hypocrisy, and that’s what it’s all about.”

Furthermore, Manneh expressed frustration with the internal strife within the NPP. “How can you support someone who wasn’t born and raised on the West Coast over one of our own?” he asked.

Despite Gitteh’s considerable support base, Manneh cautioned against spreading false rumours about President Barrow’s involvement in the selection process. “If you were to go out and tell voters that President Barrow handpicked Seedy Ceesay, it would be a blatant lie,” Manneh asserted.

Njie Manneh went on to lament that President Barrow is just a member of the NPP and does not own the party. If Ahmed Gitteh were to leave, many NPP supporters and voters would follow suit.

Finally, Manneh urged anyone in possession of audio recordings of his statements to forward them to Làmin Saidy, warning the politician to be cautious in the current political climate.

“If anyone obtains an audio recording of me, please forward it to Làmin Saidy and let him know that I, Njie Manneh, advise him to be cautious in this country,” he pleaded.

Despite the controversies that his audios have generated, Njie Manneh remains a beloved figure among his supporters. His unique blend of wit and humour has made him a voice to be reckoned with in the political landscape, and his insights are eagerly awaited by his numerous followers.

Six common diseases attributable to smoking and what The Gambia is doing about it

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Six common diseases attributable to smoking and what The Gambia is doing about it
By: Dawda Baldeh
Six common diseases attributable to smoking and what The Gambia is doing about it
 Image source: The Pharma Times.

Smoking, especially tobacco smoking, is a harmful practice that can cause several diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure and chest infections. Due to its harmful effects, smoking in public is banned, and the sale and advertisements of tobacco products are prohibited in The Gambia.

To further discourage people from smoking or importing tobacco products, the government plans to increase taxes on tobacco products (see page 67 ANNEX 5 Revenue Measures) and order tobacco (cigarettes) sellers not to sell it per stick.

In this explainer, DUBAWA highlights some of the most common diseases smoking causes. We engaged Seyfo Singhateh, Senior Program Officer of Non-Communicable Disease (NCD), Directorate of Health services at the Ministry of Health of The Gambia, regarding the subject. The Ministry of Health noted that the disease affects smokers and those exposed to cigarette smoke.

1.  COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)

COPD is an obstructive lung disease that causes difficulty in breathing. It also causes long-term disability and early death. It leads to inactivity and loss of strength that will eventually worsen, making walking extremely difficult for a distance. About 85% to 90% of all COPD is caused by cigarette smoking.

2.  Heart disease

Smoking causes dangerous plaque build-up that can clog and narrow the arteries. Poisons from tobacco smoke also quickly damage blood vessels and make blood more likely to clog. This can block blood flow and lead to heart attack, stroke, or sudden death.

3.  Stroke

A stroke is a loss of brain function caused when blood flow within the brain is interrupted. The ailment can cause permanent brain damage to the brain and sometimes lead to death. Smoking increases the risk of strokes in people.

4.  Asthma 

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that makes it harder to move air in and out of the lungs, known as “breathing.” Smoking irritates air passages. It can trigger sudden and severe asthma attacks. Asthma is also a serious health problem that affects millions of people globally.

5.  Diabetes type 2

Smoking is a cause of type 2 diabetes. If you have diabetes and smoke, your risk for kidney disease is two or three times higher than if you don’t smoke. Smokers with diabetes also have a higher risk for heart disease, an eye disease that can cause blindness, and nerve damage that leads to numbness, pain, weakness, poor circulation and amputations. Smokers who have diabetes also have more difficulty recovering from surgeries.

6.  Infertility and pregnancy problem

Smoking reduces a woman’s chance of getting pregnant and damages sperm cells. Damage to sperm could decrease fertility and lead to miscarriage or congenital disabilities.

Men who smoke are more likely to have erectile dysfunction, which can affect reproduction. Women who smoke during pregnancy have a higher risk for ectopic pregnancy, delivering their babies early, and stillbirth. Those who smoke during early pregnancy are likelier to have babies born with a cleft lip or palate.

Babies whose mothers smoke during pregnancy are likelier to have low birth weight or die from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

How does smoking cause diseases?

Smoking, especially tobacco smoking, weakens the immune system of a smoker. As a result, it will undermine the system in fighting any diseases in the body. When the immune system is weak, it makes it easier for any disease to overcome the system.

Cigarettes contain more than 7,000 harmful chemicals that can lead to several diseases in the human body. It also causes infertility in both men and women. When the immune system is weak, it leads to diseases like cancer, heart disease, stroke, and lung diseases. Smoking also increases the risk of tuberculosis and certain eye diseases.

What is the Ministry of Health doing to protect people from the effects of tobacco smoking? 

Over twenty years, The Gambia has compiled a good collection of legal frameworks that reassures tobacco control.

The Gambia has enacted the Tobacco Control Act and developed Tobacco Control Regulations.

The Gambia has approved the Protocol to Eliminate Unlawful Trade in Tobacco Products and developed the National Tobacco Control Program Document. In their effort to curtail tobacco use, The Gambia government, through the Ministry of Health, created an Act in 2016 called the ‘Tobacco Control Act 2016’. The Act was adopted in December 2016 and entered into force on December 17, 2018.

The Tobacco Control Regulation 2019 contains implementing details related to health warning content, sales restrictions, disclosure requirements, smoke-free places, and enforcement.

The Regulations entered into force on October 1, 2019. The Act prohibited all indoor workplaces, public places, and smoking on all means of public transport.

Based on scientific evidence, the conference of the Parties to the World Health Organization Framework Convention of Tobacco Control has stated that 100% smoke-free environments are the only proven way to adequately protect people’s health from the harmful effects of second-hand tobacco smoke.

The researcher produced this explainer at the DUBAWA 2023 Kwame KariKari Fellowship partnership with (The Fatu Network) Daily Trust to facilitate the ethos of “truth” in journalism and enhance media literacy in the country.

MC Cham resigns amid row over alleged endorsement of Senegalese opposition presidential candidate

Hadram Hydara
-
0
MC Cham resigns amid row over alleged endorsement of Senegalese opposition presidential candidate

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

MC Cham Jnr, the campaign manager of the Gambia Democratic Party (GDC), has resigned from the party amid a row over his alleged endorsement of Senegalese opposition politician Ousmane Sonko, a claim he refuted.

In a letter shared with The Fatu Network dated 16th March 2023, Mr Cham notified the party’s administrative secretary of his decision to leave the party, relinquishing all his duties as the National Campaign Manager of the party in the process.

In what seems like a fuss over the open press release by the party publicly disassociating itself from an alleged statement by MC Cham in endorsing Ousman Sonko, the former campaign manager said that his resignation from the party is personal.

“I write to officially inform you that I have resigned from the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC) party, effective today, 16th March 2023.

Henceforth, I have also given up on all my duties and responsibilities as the National Campaign Manager of GDC.

The reason for this decision is personal, and I thank the entire GDC party for the collaboration and support we shared since its inception in 2016.”

‘Campaign starts today’: NPP’s Seedy Ceesay urges supporters to lure opposition supporters to ‘salvation’

Hadram Hydara
-
0
‘Campaign starts today’: NPP’s Seedy Ceesay urges supporters to lure opposition supporters to ‘salvation’

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Seedy Ceesay, the ruling National People’s Party’s (NPP) elected candidate for the forthcoming Brikama Area Council (BAC) chairmanship election, has described West Coast as the Silicon Valley of the Gambia while urging delegates to start reaching out to opposition supporters and make them realise that they have a candidate who can “salvage” them.

Speaking to the delegates after his controversial victory against Ahmed Gitteh in the party’s primary, Seedy informed the delegates that the race for the top seat in the region has started.

“The campaign starts today. We are working with the whole of the West Coast, be it UDP, GDC or any other party, go to them. Tell them that you have someone in the West Coast Region whom you have trust and confidence will salvage us and give them reasons,” he told delegates shortly after his victory was announced.

Ceesay, who is the host of the popular current affairs show Kacha Dula on QTV, described the region as the Silicon Valley of the Gambia, noting that the region has so many things that can help transform it.

Seedy’ victory and the ruling party’s primary came after his opponent Ahmad Gitteh withdrew from the race, claiming that he won the first round last week.

The current chairman of the Brikama Area Council, Sheriffo Sonko, who backed out to give a chance to Seedy, urged his sympathizers to rally behind Seedy, noting that he has secrets at the council which can only be given to Seedy and nobody else.

MC Cham Jnr: ‘This is the least act of sabotage I expected from GDC’

Hadram Hydara
-
0
MC Cham Jnr: ‘This is the least act of sabotage I expected from GDC’

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Just a few hours after the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC) announced their disassociation from their campaign manager MC Cham Jnr’s alleged endorsement of Ousmane Sonko, a Senegalese opposition leader, MC Cham Jr has in his response described the press statement as the least act of sabotage he expected from his party, urging them to correct their mistake.

In a press release, the GDC claimed that MC Cham Jnr’s ‘endorsement’ of Ousmane Sonko does not represent the party, and thus it was the view of Cham.

Responding to his party’s press release, MC Cham refuted the claim that he endorsed Sonko and said that his party is wrong. He further pointed out that such a claim is the least act of sabotage he had expected from the GDC.

“I attended the event but didn’t give any speech or statement there. I didn’t say that I endorse Ousmane Sonko, and I didn’t say the GDC had endorsed Ousman Sonko. Therefore, the GDC is wrong to issue such claims in the first place without proper investigation.

“This is the least act of sabotage I expect to come from the GDC. It is undone and they are wrong. I hope they will rectify their mistakes soon,” Mc Cham said in his defence.

The GDC campaign manager further said that he is disappointed in the executive committee of his party for not inviting him for questioning before releasing a press statement disassociating itself from a comment, he said he has never made.

According to MC Cham, he will not interfere in foreign politics, something he has been advocating others not to involve in.

“Those who know me can attest to the fact that I have always been advocating for foreigners to stay away from Gambian politics, and this is on record in the media. Therefore, I will not interfere in foreign politics.”

In an invitation letter seen by The Fatu Network, MC Cham was invited to the fundraising party of Pastef, a Senegalese political party led by prominent opposition, Ousmane Sonko on Sunday at Sukuta, in the West Coast region.

Coup trial: State says witness out of jurisdiction

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Coup trial: State says witness out of jurisdiction

By: Ousman Saidykhan

The December 25th coup trial has been adjourned for the second time in two days. This time, the state says its 5th witness is out of jurisdiction but said the witness “will surely be back during the weekend.”

The defence lawyers did object to the adjournment application, but the Judge warned the state to put their house in order and ensure they bring the witness on the next adjourned date, next week, March 21st.

The case was adjourned yesterday, 13th March 2023 because the state said the witness, they wanted to call is an undercover security and would not want him to testify in an open court.

Already, four prosecution witnesses have testified in the coup trial that involved five accused persons including a Busura marabout the accused persons allegedly sought help from.

Lance Corporal Sana Fadera (allege ringleader), Petty Officer Gibril Darboe, Corporal Ebrima Sanno, Corporal Omar Njie and Police Sub-Inspector, Fa Bakary Jawara are charged with four counts of Treason; Concealment of Treason; Conspiracy and Inciting mutiny.

SKEPTICAL TUESDAY: Why ‘Chef de Garage’ is the Ultimate Scam

Hadram Hydara
-
0
SKEPTICAL TUESDAY: Why ‘Chef de Garage’ is the Ultimate Scam

Welcome to Skeptical Tuesday, where we take a good, hard look at the ridiculous things that we encounter in our daily lives. Today’s topic is the infamous “Chef de garage” – a title that sounds like it was plucked straight from a French cookbook, but is really just a fancy way of saying “lazy, money-grubbing leech”. Ah, the “Chef de garage” – the fancy French title for the guy who sits under a tree all day, drinking Ataya and Cafe Touba, and collecting a few measly coins from poor drivers. It’s like a scene from a bad comedy movie, but unfortunately, it’s all too real in The Gambia and Sub-Saharan Africa.

These so-called “Chefs” sit under a tree all day, collecting coins from drivers and doing nothing to earn them – all while the garage slowly descends into filth and chaos. Gather ’round, and let us delve into the absurdity of the “Chef de garage” – the most useless title to ever grace the ears of drivers in The Gambia. It’s a title that reeks of pretentiousness and conjures images of lazy con artists, all while drivers are left scratching their heads and wondering why they’re being forced to pay for a service they don’t need.

Let’s start with the basics. What is a “Chef de garage”? It’s a fancy French term that essentially means “garage manager”. In theory, a garage manager might oversee the maintenance and repairs of commercial vehicles, ensuring that they’re in good working condition and that they pass safety inspections.
But in reality, in a country like The Gambia, this position is a complete and utter joke.

In the Gambian transportation system, it’s not uncommon to come across these so-called “Chefs de Garage” who collect fees from drivers in exchange for nothing more than a false sense of security. They often lounge around the garage all day, sipping on Ataya and Cafe Touba while drivers come and go, wondering why they’re being forced to part with their hard-earned money. And the worst part? These “Chefs” make no effort to maintain the garage or keep it clean.

Let’s talk about the conditions of these so-called “garages”. They’re not exactly what you’d call hygienic, are they? Dirt, mud, and flies are everywhere, and you can practically see the germs multiplying. It’s like a breeding ground for disease. And yet, the “Chef de garage” seems perfectly content to sit there, collecting his coins and not lifting a finger to improve the conditions.

It’s a scam that’s been going on for far too long. After all, why should they be forced to pay for a service that doesn’t exist? It’s high time that the Gambian government takes action to put an end to this ridiculous practice and protect its citizens from these opportunistic “Chefs de Garage” who are nothing more than glorified con artists.

If we want to improve the situation for commercial drivers in The Gambia, we need to focus on creating a formalized system for maintaining and repairing vehicles, with clear guidelines and accountability measures in place.

We don’t need a fancy French title for someone who’s essentially doing nothing. It’s time to call out the “Chef de garage” for what it is: a complete and utter joke.

Ahmad Gitteh: ‘They told the president that I insulted mothers of his ministers’

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Ahmad Gitteh: ‘They told the president that I insulted mothers of his ministers’

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Ahmad Gitteh, the ‘defeated’ candidate at the National People’s Party’s (NPP) West Coast Region (WCR) primary today, has said he was reported to President Adama Barrow that he insulted the parents of his ministers, as he stomped out of a private discussion with the selection committee without the presence of the media amidst allegations of him insulting ministers.

Gitteh, who claimed that he won last week’s primaries, remarked in the ball today that he was not going to contest and decided not to involve in what the NPP press secretary called a family discussion when Gitteh demanded for his photo on the ballot box before the election today. He asserted that he was accused and reported of insulting the mothers of ministers to the president.

“They asked for us to have a discussion, but I told them that I am scared of them without the media,” he told his supporters after matching out.

He went further: “What will be said there, I don’t know. You are all aware that, I didn’t insult anyone, but they (NPP selection committee) think I did. They went and told the president that I insulted the mothers of the ministers,” he claimed, while telling his supporters the reason he failed to be part of the ‘family discussion’.

Ahmad Gitteh was supposed to be in for a runoff primary with Seedy Ceesay after the selection committee declared that both candidates scored 30 votes each in last week’s primary, a result Gitteh claimed was faulted because he had won.

Today, before the runoff began, Ahmad Gitteh left the hall after informing the delegates that he was not there for a rerun, but instead, was there to claim his victory.

However, the selection committee proceeded with voting and out of 76 votes, 22 voted in favour of Ahmad Gitteh while 46 opted for the eventual winner, Seedy Ceesay.

Medical Negligence on the rise in the Gambia: A Call for National Action

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Medical Negligence on the rise in the Gambia: A Call for National Action

By Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu and Juliana Twumwaa Obeng

         

Medical Negligence on the rise in the Gambia: A Call for National Action

As students of the law, we are saddened by the high rise of reported media cases of alleged medical negligence in the Gambian healthcare system.  Some of the cases ended up in court with interesting decisions. In this article, we report some of the alleged negligent cases:

The first case was reported by What’s on Gambia on 3rd July 2014. In this case, a nurse was jailed for medical negligence.  The story held that a pregnant woman, Isatou Bah visited Brikama Health Centre, in November 2013 to seek help. She was heavily pregnant and in pain, but Ndey decided to send her away.

Isatou pleaded and pleaded for help until she was allowed to stay in the labour ward. But that was not the end. The nurse asked for D1,800 from her husband, who later gave her D400 and promised to pay the rest. Despite paying D400, Isatou was left unattended. She delivered on her own, and sadly the baby fell on the floor and later died.

The second reported case of alleged medical negligence was reported by the same online portal on 11th September 2021. In this case, Fatoumatta Bah was 7 months pregnant when she died at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital.

The third reported case of alleged medical negligence was attributed to a story published by the Voice Newspaper on October 13, 2022.  This refers to some children who died taking some cough syrups in the Country.

The fourth case of reported medical negligence was also attributed to one Dr. Mbowe, accused of endorsing and taking part in Jammeh’s treatment causing loss of life by the Standard Newspaper (2022).

The fifth case of alleged medical negligence was directed to The Gambia’s main hospital, Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH) in Banjul.

Finally, a recent alleged case was reported on what’s on-Gambia, (2023) where a heavily pregnant woman and her unborn baby died at the Medicare Clinic in Brusubi.

Medical Negligence?

A simple definition was espoused in the Ghanaian case of The State v Tsiba (1962) 2 GLR 109 at p.111, Akufo Addo J.S.C (as he then was): “the omission to take care where there is a duty to take care”.  It is also worth noting that the practice where we assume that doctors know it all in the medical profession is a thing of the past.

For legal academic education, we examine the common law perspective, academic legal studies, the Evidence Act 1994, and court decisions in the Gambia to buttress our argument on why the assumption that doctor knows it all is a thing of the past in the health system.

Bolam (1957) Covering Doctors-History

The adage of doctors knowing it all in the healthcare industry was a shield under the Bolam principle. This principle, which saves the medical profession held that when a doctor engages in a negligent act and it goes to court, once a colleague doctor testifies that the doctor’s practice or act is accepted by a reasonable body of medical opinion in that act the doctor could not be held as negligent.

The ‘Bolam’ principle has long been the traditional test governing how much information is necessary to avoid liability in negligence. Doctors would rely on their professional judgment to determine the amount of information to be disclosed.

Prior to that, Hunter v Hanley [1955] S.C. 2000 also permitted the medical profession to decide what information a patient could receive about options for treatment and the risks and benefits of those options. Information delivery to patients was filtered by the practice of the profession.

During this period, the courts in the UK were content to permit the medical profession through the evidence of expert witnesses on professional practice to dictate what information patients were entitled to receive.

The focus was not on the rights of the patient and the disclosure of risks inherent in a proposed treatment was seen as a product of the doctor’s duty of care rather than as a product of the patient’s right to self-determination.

Roger v Whitaker (1992): A patient’s right

There came Roger v Whitaker, an Australian case, that was celebrated for departing from doctors know it all in Bolam and Sidaway. Roger’s case reasoned that instead of cementing medical opinion, even on patients’ decision-making, the court is willing to re-examine the appropriateness of the standard adopted by doctors.

Bolitho (1997): Judges have the power to think for medical people

Bolitho v City and Hackney HA, 1996 helped to clarify what was meant by “a responsible body,” defining it as one whose opinion had a “logical basis in the medical profession.”

This means that the Bolam Test and the Bolitho Test are used in combination in medical negligence. Bolitho test is saying that the doctor’s decision, though appears sound in the medical community has to be logical. Combining the two cases means that a doctor is not negligent if he or she acts in accordance with a responsible body of medical opinion, provided that the Court finds such an opinion to be logical.

For instance, the Evidence Act 1994 of the Gambia, Section 75 permits expert opinion to be given in evidence before the court in matters relating to medical, science, pathologist’s report and many others. There are instances where the court is confronted with a conflict in what is regarded as expert opinions.

For instance, in the case of Babourcarr Touray v MRC and 2 OR GCA CIV.APP. 55/94, where medical experts presented diverse explanations as to the cause of gangrene (death of body tissue due to a lack of blood flow or a serious bacterial infection) which led to the loss of the plaintiff’s two hands. When this happens, the court is not bound to accept the opinion of an expert or anybody else.  It is the duty of the court to describe what is logical, not the medical profession. The court has to examine all the issues that are before it.

Thus, Bolitho questioned the authenticity of expert knowledge given the Bolam test to the extent that opinion among expert groups may not be based on sound current knowledge.

In Pearce v. United Bristol Healthcare NHS Trust 1999, the Court of Appeal established that the standard adopted in Bolitho was equally applicable to cases dealing with the duty to inform.

Chester v Afshar (2004): Courts protecting doctors

In Chester v Afshar, Lord Hope said “the function of the law is to protect the patient’s right to choose. If it is to fulfil that function, it must ensure that the duty to inform is respected by the doctor.” Based on this statement, some commentators held that the courts have been lenient on doctors and have not been robust enough to hit the nail on the head to protect the rights of patients. Probably, those affected by alleged medical negligence in the Gambia are not testing the law.

Foo Fio Na v Dr. Soo Fook Mun, 2007: Millennial Approach

In this Malaysia case, Foo Fio Na v Soo Fook Mun and Anor. (2007), the Court viewed the Bolam’s as being “overprotective and deferential” to the medical profession.  The judges reasoned that the law is indeed in their bosom, and they can disagree with medical opinion. The court determines the reasoning behind doctors’ conduct and not the profession. The Federal Court opined that “the Rogers v Whitaker test would be a more appropriate and viable test of this millennium.

Sidaway & Montgomery: doctors are not superior

Even before the development in Montgomery in the modern era, in 1985 the House of Lords in Sidaway v Board of Governors of the Bethlem Royal Hospital adopted the test to be employed in case a doctor fails to advise a patient of the risks involved in a particular treatment.

Sidaway became the first test for information disclosure to patients that recognized their right to self-determination in the context of decisions about their medical treatment. The case was recognized in Montgomery.

The ‘Montgomery case has called on doctors to consider ‘material risk or significant risk’ and the doctor has a duty to provide all useful information or all possible options. Hence, failure on the part of the doctor to provide the patient with other possible options available is suicidal on the part of the doctor.

‘Reasonable patient’ rather than ‘Reasonable doctor’.

In Montgomery v Lanarkshire Health Board, UKSC 1, 2015, has raised the standard of a reasonable test as the focus is now on ‘reasonable patient’ rather than ‘reasonable doctor’. The law defines material risk as either a risk to which a reasonable person in the patient’s position would be likely to attach significance or a risk that a doctor knows or should reasonably know is perceived to be of significance by this particular patient.

The issue of concern is ‘this particular patient. Bismark et al. (2012) explained that many jurisdictions have moved towards legal standards for risk disclosure, prioritizing the preferences of patients. The Ghana Health Service Patient’s Charter thus, gives a patient the power to make decisions as well.

This was the case in ‘Cantebury v Spencer’ in 1972 in the District of Columbia Court of Appeal, the court rejected the traditional approach of ‘what reasonable practitioner would do’ to a patient-centred standard: ‘what would a reasonable person want to know?’

Montgomery applicability in Ghana

‘Montgomery’, ‘Pearce’ and ‘Roger v Whitaker’ concerning a doctor’s duty to take reasonable care to ensure patients are aware of any material risks involved in recommended treatment and the alternatives were applied in  Dr. E.L.A. Chinbuah and Attorney General case, 2021, when the deceased was due to deliver, she opted for a Cesarean Section, but her request was turned down. Instead, the doctors decided to take her through normal delivery. This caused her to bleed profusely and died in the process. The Ghanaian court adopted a more patient-centred approach here.

Are Doctors in Danger?

Some commentators believe the new law appears to be harsh on doctors as the courts have decided to tell doctors how to practice medicine instead of doctors making changes in their profession. But others also believe that the new law will help doctors to sit up instead of believing that they are superior and know it all in the medical profession. But the ‘unlettered’ man in the Banjul Street will think that the new law is the way to go judging from recent allegations of medical negligence.

The law even went further to state that when a doctor knows there is another doctor who is more experienced to take a certain case and failed to do so could be held as negligent. This was manifested in an Australian case, ‘Chappel v Hart’ [1998], the attending doctor failed to disclose the availability of a more experienced surgeon for a particular procedure, the factual causation must be followed by a second aspect of causation, the scope of liability that the patient would only claim if the risk materializes, as in ‘Wallace v Kam’ [2013] HCA 19.

Other commentators assert that Wallace could pose a great challenge as some patients could demand highly expensive treatment, disregarding the cost-effectiveness issue or opting for alternative medicine without strong scientific evidence. For instance, Strauss and Thomas (2009) held that in modern health care, responsible bodies of medical opinion mean judicious use of the best current evidence in making decisions about the care of patients, and also a strong emphasis on patient-centred care. This would bridge the gap between the two different standards (professional vs reasonable person) and also the legal and medical perspectives regarding disclosure and consent.

Conclusion

As students of the law with interest in medico-legal issues, we are concerned with the state of alleged medical negligence in the Gambian media space. We believe that it is prudent for doctors and healthcare workers to understand that the healthcare team is about collaboration in this new era, and patients are becoming more proactive about their health. Many are seeking legal opinions on health issues and negligent acts can affect the image of the doctor and the facility.

We recommend that the healthcare industry should start looking at how to avert negligence in their practices. However, as students of the law, it is encouraging to know that “doctors know it all” is no longer an option as the court has the power to disregard this.  Hence, we recommend that the Gambian Health authorities be up and doing to curb the rising cases of alleged medical negligence.

The authors are BL Candidates at the Gambia Law School, Banjul, Gambia. E-mail: [email protected]. [email protected]

 

 

Banjul-Beijing diplomatic relations: What The Gambia missed for 2 decades

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Banjul-Beijing diplomatic relations: What The Gambia missed for 2 decades
image 71
By: Talibeh Hydara

On 12 June, 195, President Sir Dawda Jawara met the great Chairman Mao, the pioneer of the new China, which was featured in the pages of Peking Review, now renamed Beijing Review. The Gambia had only been a republic for five years and just a year after establishing diplomatic ties with China. During that visit, and in subsequent ones in 1976 and 1987, various agreements were signed between the two countries.

Untitled design 2023 03 14T095325.073

Historian Hassoum Ceesay stated: “The projects signed included the construction of the Independence Stadium and Friendship Hostel in Bakau in 1983, six major health centres at places like Kaur, Kuntaur, Yerobawol, Fagikunda and rice projects in the then Maccarthy Island Division. With Chinese support, The Gambia, in the nineteen seventies and nineteen eighties, was on the cusp of achieving food security.”

Yes, 30 years ago, with the help of China, we were on the verge of attaining food security. Let that sink in. But just last year, the World Food Programme revealed that over 200,000 people were facing emergency levels of hunger in The Gambia. A stark difference and what a drop it has been.

Jawara laid the foundations for Gambia-China relations. A tiny snake-like country with a population of barely half a million at the time would have enjoyed the fruits of such relations with a potential superpower like China. He didn’t need to be a rocket scientist to figure that out. Chairman Mao respected Jawara. Chinese people respected Jawara and The Gambia. In fact, according to Mr Ceesay, Jawara was taken to visit the famous Chinese Premiere during his first visit, Chou En-Lai, who later died in 1976. “Jawara went to see him at his hospital bed, and according to Xinhua, the two leaders spoke for 30 minutes, and were both satisfied with the talks. In fact, Jawara was one of the few African leaders to have had the chance to meet with Chairman Mao on two occasions—a measure of how seriously China regarded The Gambia as a dependable partner,” Hassoum said.

Untitled design 2023 03 14T095413.284 1

In 58 years of independence, The Gambia has got just one national stadium, which was built by the Chinese and Friendship Hostel after Jawara secured 13 million dalasis during his visit to China. Both structures are still alive, even though the Confederation of African Football, CAF, considered the stadium no longer fit to host international matches after our musicians turned it into a nightclub for decades by launching their albums there and dancing it to the ground. This means The Gambia now plays its home matches away. Imagine, just for a moment, if our requests to play our games in people’s stadiums have all been rejected. We would be given the Nobel Prize for international embarrassment. I can bet half of my salary on the fact that, had our relations with China continued unabated, we would have had a new stadium. I will only bet half of my salary because if I bet all and lose, I will starve. Jawara had the foresight to understand that China would be a world-beater in the future, so he grabbed the opportunity at the earliest.

However, in 1995, Jammeh, in his lack of wisdom and pure naivety, ended diplomatic relations with China and recognised Taiwan. A 30-year-old lieutenant in the army decided for the whole Gambia that Taiwan was a better development partner than China. For the next 18 years, Jammeh not only flirted with Taiwan but trolled China, mounting the podium at the UN General Assembly and demanding the independence of Taiwan. He invited at least two subsequent Taiwanese presidents in Chen Shui-bian in 2000, and Ma Ying-jeou in 2012. Those are the ones I remember. He might have invited more but I was too young to bother. He played football and did a push-up challenge with President Ma on national television. Not just that, he has visited Taiwan nine times. That was incredible. I am still not sure what The Gambia benefitted from Taiwan in nearly two decades of relations apart from building a secondary school and giving us lots of rice. Maybe that is too harsh. But when Jammeh started growing rice in large scale and building schools in bushes, the stupidity of his decision to opt for Taipei over Beijing dawned on him. And, as typical of him, shortly after his last visit to Taiwan in 2012, he severed ties with them, citing ‘strategic interest’. Yes, he finally understood the meaning of strategic interest after 18 years. That cost The Gambia a lot in terms of education and infrastructure development.

Untitled design 2023 03 14T095450.930

The only good thing Jammeh did in our relations with China was to restore them in his final year as president in 2016. Since then, China has been providing regular financial aid to the government, scholarships to Gambian citizens to study in universities across China, exchange programmes for civil servants, medical team offering healthcare services to poor Gambians, funded the construction of roads and bridges and built a top-class international conference centre which is comfortable enough to host even an assembly of angels in heaven.

In 1976 China was just finding its feet and the country was probably not even in the top 30 major economies in the world. Now they are second, just behind the United States with all the signs of overtaking soon. We could have developed with them. Maybe not at the same pace but we wouldn’t have been this far behind.

Since I arrived here, I haven’t seen a mutilated bank note. Cash transactions are rare. Everything is done through apps; Alipay, WeChat. Technology is advanced in China. If you want to ride a bike, buy food at the supermarket, clothes at the mall or take the subway just scan the QR Code, and bingo! I still look at my new banknotes and smile. In The Gambia, because everything is done with cash, our bank notes become so mutilated and soiled that you don’t even recognise them. I recently received some cash from our office and there was a particular bank note that I ended up leaving on my table. Everyone I turned to refused to accept it; drivers, shopkeepers, even fish sellers, who are half of the time responsible for the tragic appearance of our bank notes because of how they manhandle cash. China is the perfect place to learn how to solve that problem. Every year we print a new family of banknotes, and none survives the torture of our palms.

The bottom-line is, The Gambia should never have severed ties with China in 1995. We could have increased rice production and stopped importing it. We have vast arable land and at least six months of sufficient rains. We could have maximised our groundnut production by providing modern equipment to farmers and we wouldn’t be seeing government haggling with farmers over the price of groundnut. We could have built more and better roads without waiting until 2023 to have our first flyover. We could have hundreds of Gambians with advanced knowledge in science, technology and engineering, so we could solve our perennial drainage problem during rainy seasons with houses filling up like buckets under running taps. We could have… we could have… we could have but we missed all of it because of a terrible decision Jammeh made. It is not too late though. We need to work harder. Learn best practices from the best. Instil discipline in the citizenry. Modernise, not Westernise, by preserving our values and cultures. A country of 2 million people doesn’t require magic to develop. China got it right. We need to get it right too. And with relations between Banjul and Beijing at an all-time high, there is no better time to both benefit from China and learn from its path to development. The Barrow government has a chance to revisit Jawara’s plans and focus on areas that have a long-term impact on the people. President Barrow has already visited China. As a president of a Least Developed Country (LDC), stepping into Beijing alone gives you all the inspiration you need to be pragmatic and spearhead a revolutionary development in your country. The time is NOW!

1...144145146...780Page 145 of 780

2025 © The Fatu Network - Site by DigiTech Solutions

Reset password

Enter your email address and we will send you a link to change your password.

Get started with your account

to save your favourite homes and more

Sign up with email

Get started with your account

to save your favourite homes and more

By clicking the «SIGN UP» button you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy
Powered by Estatik