The Vice Chancellor of the International Open University (IOU), Dr Cherno Omar Barry, on Monday May 9th 2022 travelled to Kigali, Rwanda to attend a three-day international e-learning conference.

The conference takes place from May 11th to May 13th, 2022. Dr Barry is theonly one representing The Gambia in this event through the IOU.

This programme is the 15th E-learning conference and exhibition on ICT for education, Training and Skills development. It is an inspirational and multi-layered programme with over 200 speakers from different sectors to bring the theme “A new purpose for education” to life.

E-learning Africa is globally recognised as the most thrilling, challenging and inspirational digital learning event. The future of education will be presented by well known speakers like Dr Njeri Mwagiru (Senior Futurist), Mark West (UNESCO), Lady Mariéme Jamme, Jaime Casap, Sobhi Tawil, Professor Mogobe Ramose, Gertrude Mwangala Akapelwa, Sozinho Francisco Matsinhe, Leo Chikezie Igwe, Dayn Amade, Ferhana Dostmohamed, Ebenezer Malcalm, Adewunmi Payne-Akinhanmi, and many more equipped speakers in a variety of formats which included plenary sessions, world cafes, panel discussions, knowledge factories, core dialogues, discovery demos and knowledge exchange sessions.

The event is sessioned with knowledge and networks that will better improve the work of the International Open University in The Gambia and across the globe.

Dr Cherno Omar Barry upon the request of Cousera will have a bilateral meeting with Cousera, the global online learning platform who is on a mission to transform lives through learning.

The Vice Chancellor will therefore, after the closing of the event on May 13th 2022 attend to some of the matters of IOU in Rwanda to ensure that IOU’s education is of high standard and of high quality not just in the Gambia but also across the globe. He is thus expected to return on Sunday May 15th, 2022.

By Amara Thoronka

Sadibou Kamaso has disclosed on his “Sadibou for GFF President” Facebook page that he has on Friday 13^th May 2022 resigned his positions as executive member of Gambia Football Federation (GFF) and member of all GFF standing committees.

“There are moments in one’s life when it is prudent to sacrifice to self for the good of others and if not for that particular purpose, at least to stand and defend one’s adored ideals and values. I have today submitted my resignation letter as Executive Member of The Gambia Football Federation and member of all other GFF standing Committees which resignation takes immediate effect having assumed the said positions since 2018 with the fervent belief that the ideas, plans and vision I was presented with are in the best interest of promotion and advancement of the beautiful game of football in our beloved country with a holistic approach,” he said.

He described the current GFF leadership as a ‘realm of unquenchable dictatorship.’

“My decision to resign today is with a heavy heart but quite apt with a very clear and disentangled mind.  It is an established fact that this move was unavoidable considering the fact that the current GFF leadership has embarked upon a realm of unquenchable dictatorship by making unilateral decisions that contravene the democratic principles which are not only manifestly unjust but clearly unsuitable and unacceptable.”

Kamaso added that he was and still remain of the fervent belief that him serving in various positions was to offer his allegiance to the football development aspirations of football stakeholders and the country and not to a particular position or individual.

“I have always made my voice and position known where I should and given my all to make football better. To some, this may seem like an act of defiance, yet to those who know me well and served with me would confirm that I would never allow to be used for the wrong reasons.”

He noted that, “The recent tsunami of removals of individuals from the different GFF committees simply because they are perceived to support my candidature are not only reprehensible but deplorable and unacceptable and must END NOW.  The appointments of these individuals in these positions were Executive Decisions of the GFF and their removals must also be tabled before the same Executive Members, not unilaterally by the President.  I am aware that there are more sacking letters being drafted for those believed to support my candidature or even suspected of supporting the restore Confidence team.”

“I stand in full solidarity with these hardworking individuals and assure them of my strongest commitment to fight against these unjust moves.  I have come to the inevitable conclusion that my candidature should not cause people their positions.  In an act of defiance to these wrongful removals and in full solidarity with these innocent and hardworking individuals who have done nothing but commit their all to football development in our beloved country, I have decided to resign from all GFF positions with immediate effect,” he emphasized.

Kamaso concluded that those who support his candidature and feel threatened by what he called “unfair removals,” have his fullest support at all times; saying that they will continue to fight for the right changes in Gambian football.

By: Dawda Baldeh

The Afromanding singer and songwriter, Nyancho Apachaky, has earlier today announced the sacking of his music manager Dembo Jobarteh alias D.Jobs,  accusing him of mismanaging funds among others.

In a press statement, Nyancho expressed disappointment towards his manager.

“Just to clear the air about the rumor that has been circulating lately about my management. From today onwards, I Nyancho Apachaky is officially here to announce that Dembo Jobarteh also known as D. Jobs is no more my manager. I’ve sacked him from his duty as manager on behalf of my management,” he disclosed.

According to him, D. Jobs has been taking bookings on behalf of him (Nyancho) the team, adding that he (D. Jobs) took loans of different amounts from people and companies all in his name (Nyancho and his management) without their knowledge.

“I was playing shows that he already spent the money on his personal problems without showing the team a single dalasi. And I am sure the whole world knows how painful and hard my stage performance is.”

Nyancho noted, “I am the artist with the biggest technical team. With my DJ, my dancers, my backing vocalists and other people underground.”

He alleged that D. Jobs has been collecting money from people and using it on himself, confirming that the team is suffering.

He said he will now start from scratch, urging people not to contact D. Jobs for any booking or music business.

This medium tried contacting D.Jobs for his feedback but he couldn’t be reached at the moment.

In a summary online publication on drug enforcement interventions covering the first two weeks in the month of May, Drug Law Enforcement Agency of The Gambia (DLEAG) has disclosed that sixteen people have been arrested so far for the possession of prohibited and controlled drugs.

16-year-old teenage Gambian was arrested at Basse in the Upper River Region (URR) with twelve wraps of suspected cannabis sativa on 12 May 2022 around 01:30pm.

22-year-old Abdou Saine was also arrested in Basse URR on the 12^th May 2022 around 12:40pm with one parcel of suspected cannabis sativa.

26-year-old Gibril Sanneh was apprehended at Farato Bojang Kunda on the 11 May 2022 around 8:30pm with two parcels and ten wraps of suspected cannabis sativa.

47-year-old Modou Sarr was arrested at Tallinding on the 12 May 2022 around 12:25pm with twelve (12) big bundles of suspected cannabis sativa.

27-year-old Ousman Saidy of Brikama was arrested on the 11 May 2022 around 12:22pm with fourteen parcels and five wraps of suspected cannabis sativa.

21-year-old Abdu Karim Mbye was arrested at Farafenni in the North Bank Region with ten wraps of suspected cannabis sativa on the 10 May 2022 around 3:00pm

22-year-old Muhammed Drammeh was arrested at Tallinding on the 10 May 2022 around 12:25pm with eighteen parcels and eight wraps of suspected cannabis sativa as well as twenty-seven pieces of suspected cannabis resin (hashish).

23-year-old Alieu Sowe of Gunjur was arrested at Serrekunda Nding village while onboard a commercial vehicle with two big bundles of suspected cannabis sativa. The said incident happened on the 10 May 2022 around 8:40pm.

49-year-old Lamin Camara of Somita village was arrested at Amdalai village on the 9 May 2022 around 07:00am with a bundle of suspected cannabis sativa. He was onboard a commercial vehicle at the time of his arrest.

21-year-old Famara Sowe was arrested at Brikama Suba Ward (Durumakolong) with one parcel and eleven wraps of suspected cannabis sativa in addition to twenty-nine table of clonazepam, a controlled drug. A lost warrant card was also recovered from him. The said incident happened on the 9 May 2022 around 23:10pm.

19-year-old Amie Jatta, 21-year-old Mohammed Ndow and 22-year-old Pap Nyang were arrested at Bata Kunku village on the 7 May 2022 with half a bundle of suspected cannabis sativa concealed inside a multi coloured bag.

20-year-old Mohamed Dumbuya was arrested on the 7 May 2022 around 11:00am with six parcels and five wraps of suspected cannabis sativa at Sanyang beachside. DLEAG operatives also recovered thirteen parcels of suspected cannabis sativa at the Sanyang beachside on the same day around 11:00 hours GMT onwards.

21-year-old Modou Njie was arrested on the 5 May 2022 around 8:50pm with fifteen (15) big bundles and twenty-nine (29) parcels of suspected cannabis sativa at Sinchu Balia village.

21-year-old Alpha Jallow was nabbed on the 1^st May 2022 around 12:30pm with six wraps and fifty six tablets of diazepam.

All the suspects were taken into custody and charged with various offences ranging from possession, possession of prohibited drugs for the purpose of drug trafficking and dealing in prohibited drugs.

Management of the Agency reiterate its commitment and dedication to ensure that it fulfil its mandate as provided for in the DCA 2003. The Agency’s role is crucial in the maintenance of law and order and also creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive and promoting national development

We therefore calling on all sincere Gambians and non Gambians alike residing in country to complement government’s effort in keeping our communities safe, healthy and drug free.

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Gambian media houses and football Clubs in the Gambia Football Federation Division One in both the male and female competitions, will not be allowed to stream, broadcast or transmit the GFF Male and Female Division One league games live at the end of the season as the Federation awarded the exclusive right to 11 Sports.

The President of the Gambia Football Federation, Lamin Kaba Bajo revealed this to the media as the football house launched a media partnership deal with FIFA on their FIFA plus project.

“From next season, no third party will be allowed to transmit any form of coverage either in part or whole, through TV, Internet or mobile to provide transmission until the end of the licence period”, Kaba Bajo announced as he launched what he referred to the as groundbreaking event.

The GFF President said that the federation has signed a partnership deal with FIFA, a deal in which  11 Sports will have the exclusive right to broadcast GFF games from now on until the end of the 2026 league season.

However, he said media platforms and clubs streaming the games live this season will be allowed to continue it until the season ends despite the broadcasting partnership deal that will begin in the ongoing league season.

President Bajo, who will be seeking re-election in a few months, explained that having a broadcasting partner that will generate revenue for the league has been his federation’s ultimate priority despite the deal barricading Gambia media houses and clubs from having the right to stream or broadcast live games.

He said that he hardly sees Gambian leagues in the prime news hours in Gambian media.

The second Vice President of the GFF, Ebou Faye said that football is not free and thus Gambian media should brace up for such challenges. He however said that Gambian media personnel will work with the official broadcasting partners as experts, a benefit he said, Gambian journalists may have in the deal.

The deal with FIFA to have the GFF male and female Division One league will run till 2026. According to Lamin Kaba Bajo, the GFF will benefit from 20% of the revenue that will be generated by 11 Sports in broadcasting Gambian league games exclusively. He also emphasised that the deal is cost-free from GFF.

The Communication Director and the project manager of the broadcasting deal, Baboucarr Camara, described the deal as a welcoming development.

“To have an official partner to broadcast domestic league games at no expense to the club is a welcoming development and it will contribute immensely to the development of the clubs.

11 Sports will now be streaming Gambia leagues live and they will be technically assisted by a Gambian online TV.

By: Christian Conteh

The buildup leading to the prosecution of Yahya Jammeh has only just begun. Human Rights groups nationally and globally want to see the former president brought to justice for crimes against humanity committed during his reign as president of the small West African country of Gambia.

The groups include, Amnesty International, African Network against Extrajudicial Killings and Enforced Disappearances, Gambia Press Union, Human Rights Watch, Institute for Human Rights and Development in Africa, The Association of Non-Governmental Organizations in The Gambia, Gambia Center for Victims of Human Rights Violations and Women in Liberation and Leadership among other organisations reiterated this position in a recent letter to The Gambia’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dawda A. Jallow.

“The TRRC found that crimes against humanity had been committed and that Yahya Jammeh and 69 other named perpetrators were responsible for 44 specific crimes, including murder, torture, rape and sexual violence, enforced disappearance and called for their prosecution.

The government should thus ensure that enough resources are dedicated so that prompt, thorough and impartial investigations are conducted, and alleged perpetrators are prosecuted in fair trials within a reasonable time and before an independent and impartial tribunal with no recourse to the death penalty.”

It urges the government to ensure that combating impunity is an essential part of the government’s roadmap, insisting that victims have a right to receive truth, justice and reparations.

According to the TRRC, between 240 and 250 people died at the hands of the state or its agents in the period between 1994 and 2017.

Going forward the groups called for legislation to be adopted or modified accordingly to avoid a repetition of the crimes committed and combat impunity.

By: Christian Conteh

Rights group Amnesty International says that the content of the Government White Paper following the release of the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) recommendations will be an indicator of the government’s real commitment to justice and accountability.

The group made this known through an open letter addressed to Dawda A. Jallow, Gambia’s Minister of Justice and Attorney General ahead of the release of the white paper which is expected to be made public by the end of May.

The publication of the white paper will coincide with the first months of President Barrow’s second administration, following his convincing victory in the December 4th Presidential Elections.

The TRRC the group says provided an opportunity for two hundred and twenty-nine victims of Jammeh’s government to be heard, as well as taking testimony from former government insiders such as ministers, police and intelligence chiefs, and members of the “Junglers” hit squad. 

Whilst the government works on finalising in the coming weeks the white paper that will provide the roadmap for the implementation of the TRRC recommendations, Amnesty International used the letter to the Justice Minister to clearly spell out some of their hopes and concerns.

“First of all, we hope that the process followed by your administration to produce this document is inclusive and involves the victims of abuses during Jammeh’s government, as well as civil society,” the letter states.

They went on to welcome the recent national discussion between the Justice Department, some civil society and victim-led organisations on the TRRC report, calling it an important and encouraging step to ensure the inclusion of victims in the process. 

“In this spirit, we hope you will go beyond the TRRC recommendations and consider the demands of the victims who did not participate in the TRRC hearings, namely regarding sexual and gender-based violence.”

It urges the government to ensure that combating impunity is an essential part of the government’s roadmap, insisting that victims have a right to receive truth, justice and reparations. 

“The TRRC found that crimes against humanity had been committed and that Yahya Jammeh and 69 other named perpetrators were responsible for 44 specific crimes, including murder, torture, rape and sexual violence, enforced disappearance, and called for their prosecution.

The government should thus ensure that enough resources are dedicated so that prompt, thorough and impartial investigations are conducted, and alleged perpetrators are prosecuted in fair trials within a reasonable time and before an independent and impartial tribunal with no recourse to the death penalty.”

It further reiterates a recommendation by the TRRC for legislation to be adopted or modified accordingly to avoid a repetition of the crimes committed and combat impunity, whilst calling on the government to continue to communicate in a transparent, regular and clear way about the evolution of the white paper and publish it by 25th May, so that every Gambian is aware of the government’s plan to provide justice and reparations to the victims, and civil society can assist in the implementation and its monitoring.

Amnesty international co-signed the letter with African Network against Extrajudicial Killings and Enforced Disappearances, Gambia Press Union, Human Rights Watch, Institute for Human Rights and Development in Africa, The Association of Non-Governmental Organizations in The Gambia, Gambia Center for Victims of Human Rights Violations and Women in Liberation and Leadership among other organisations.

President Adama Barrow and Dr. Lamin J. Sise, Chairperson of the TRRC were copied.

By: Christian Conteh

Embattled Civil Rights Activist Madi Jobarteh has made a thorough analysis of President Adama Barrow’s statement as he swore in his new ministers.

According to Jobarteh the president’s words clearly show that corruption, inefficiency, and negligence are the order of the day in his Government.

He wrote that he has no congratulatory messages for the new appointees but he would rather remind them of integrity.

“I have no congratulatory messages for any of them. Rather I remind them of integrity. I remind them that public office is sacred. Public officials carry life and death by the decisions and actions they take. Literally, people live or die depending on the actions of public servants!” he wrote.

He pointed out that serving in public office is not a favour since public officials do not give any charity but get paid by citizens abundantly with incredible privileges, incentives and benefits that serve them for a lifetime. 

The people who pay these public officials he says, “ironically and insultingly, only receive back poverty, deprivation, high cost of living, unemployment, lack of opportunities with poor, erratic, and expensive services! This is true simply because public officials would neglect their duties, abuse their office, plunder public wealth, underperform and abuse the rights of their citizens. Shamelessly.” 

He emphasised that citizens will mercilessly, uncompromisingly, and vigorously hold them accountable. 

“We will mercilessly, uncompromisingly, and vigorously hold them accountable. We will scrutinize every word, decision, action and even their appearance! If they don’t like that, so be it! Get out of public office!”

By: Dawda Baldeh

Sino Majilak Jalbak, a Sand mining company owned and managed by Gambians, is conducting voluntary beach nourishment exercise at the beach front of The Gambia Groundnut Cooperation (GGC), by dredging the sand to save the area from potential storm damages.

Over the years, the beach front of GGC and its environs have been seriously eroded leading to destruction of perimeter fences and properties. According to officials, the exercise was done voluntarily targeting one kilometer along the beach area. They urged the government to give them the contract to nourish the entire beach area.

Beach nourishment is a process by which sediments, usually sand, lost to erosion is replaced by other sources. Omar Abdullah Jagne, the Proprietor of Sino Majlac Jalbak Sand Mining Company says the exercise is conducted to safe the area from potential storm damages, adding that they are not only focused on dredging sand for business.

“Gambia has never experienced dredging,” Jagne said. “We have all seen the environmental challenges the country is facing. Our capital on island and dredging is the only future.”

According to experts, a wider beach can reduce storm damage to coastal structure by dissipating energy across the surf zone, protecting upland structure and infrastructure from storm surges, tsunamis and unusually high tide.

Jagne further expressed the company’s commitments in contributing to the development of the country, but alleged that their operations are hindered by various institutions.

“We are professionals,” Omar Jagne told reporters. “We are all graduates from top universities. So, the foreign reliance should be reduced now if we want to develop as a country. We should start trusting citizens who work with passion, honesty, and integrity rather than giving every single project to foreigners.”

Speaking further, he said various institutions have been punishing them over the years by hindering their business. “There are many obstacles in front of us,” Jagne noted.

The effectiveness of wider beaches in reducing structural damage has been proven by field studies conducted after storms and through the application of accepted coastal engineering principles.

Alhagie Papa Samateh, partner and General Manager of Sino Majilak Jalbak said the erosion within the beach has affected the premises of the GGC and other places.

“We are conducting the beach nourishment to save the area from storm damages,” Mr. Samateh said. “We are nourishing one kilometer voluntarily, costing us Two Million Euros. We have the knowhow and the equipment to do the job well. If the beach is nourished, it will create more space for business and tourism,” Samateh assured.

He added that sand dredging can reduce risk of erosion and create new habitat and enhance the beach for recreation.

Beach Nourishment has been practiced by many countries since it was first conducted in the United States between 1922 and 1923.

Considering the fact that the Barrow victories in 2016 and 2021 were with the support of a coalition, it is expected that coalition members must make up the new administration. 

Contrary to what some Gambians have claimed, APRC spokesman, Musa Amul Nyassi has confirmed that his party the APRC is pleased with the new appointments indicating that they see themselves(APRC) in the new cabinet with the appointment of Abdoulie Jobe the new Minister of Petroleum.

Speaking to local media Nyassi said Jobe has been very consistent in his contribution and support for the APRC.

“I want to start by thanking President Barrow on the appointment of his new cabinet and pray for all those who are appointed for a successful tenure. That said, I want to say that the APRC has seen itself in the new cabinet with the appointment of Abdoulie Jobe who has been very consistent in his contribution and support for the APRC,” 

He used the opportunity to wish all the new appointees well in their new assignments.

“APRC have seen themselves in the new cabinet because Abdoulie Jobe has been with us 100%. It is true that some of the appointees were APRC before the change but after the change, they stayed neutral but for Mr Jobe, he was continuously participating in the party’s affairs,” he maintained.

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

The erstwhile Minister of Information, Communications and Infrastructure in the infancy days of the Barrow Government, Demba Ali Jawo has reacted to the new cabinet, noting that the appointment of Demba Sabally as the country’s Agriculture Minister is a political compensation, saying that the new minister doesn’t virtually know anything about Agriculture.

“Of course it is quite obvious that Demba Sabally’s appointment was just to compensate him for the great role he played in helping to neutralise the Gambia Democratic Congress party, which in no doubt helped President Barrow in his re-election,” he pointed out.

DA Jawo, who has become a vocal critic of the Barrow government since his fall out with the president in 2018 said that Barrow shouldn’t have replaced the former Minister of Agriculture, Amie Fabureh with Sabally.

“In fact many people were of the view that the former Minister, Amie Fabureh was not only an experienced agriculturist, but she was doing quite well and there was absolutely no need to replace her with someone who knows virtually nothing about agriculture,” he argued.

He went further to say that it is hard to get to the reason for having a person with no experience in agriculture occupy the post of the minister of Agriculture.

He affirmed that it is essential for a cabinet minister to have a good grasp of  the area one is heading in order to function better.

“While the technical experts are there to guide the minister, but he/she is not supposed to be a complete novice in his/her portfolio as there are places and occasions such as during cabinet meetings when the technical experts are not usually present and the minister is expected to speak and defend his/her policies and programmes. Therefore if he/she is not quite familiar with his/her area of responsibility, then it would be hard to see how he/she can make a good case in cabinet”,  he defended as he reacted to the appointment of Demba Sabally as the new Agriculture Minister.

DA Jawo is among the first persons to publicly query the appointment of Sabally as the new minister heading the Agriculture Ministry. Gambia Democratic Party youth leader, Omar Ceesay also pointed out that Sabally is not a good pick.   Last week, the Youth Secretary-General of the United Democratic Party, Kemo Bojang, also argued that the appointment of Demba Sabally is a setback.

He said that Demba Sabally is a pharmacist and he has no idea of how to run the ministry.

By: Christian Conteh

Former Information Minister Demba Ali Jawo has called out President Adama Barrow for appointing very few women into cabinet positions. Jawo blamed the president for being unfair to the Gambian women who were instrumental in his winning a second term.

“One disappointing aspect of the new cabinet is its gender composition, or rather its poor women’s representation. President Barrow has definitely not been fair to Gambian women who played a very big role in his re-election. Instead of enhancing their positions vis-a-vis their roles in governance and decision making, he has down-graded them,” Jawo said.

Women Jawo said were the number two and three personalities of the state (Vice President and Speaker) in the previous administration but this time around, they have not only lost both positions but they have been relegated to positions of virtual insignificance as far as governance is concerned.

“There is certainly no shortage of competent women to fill virtually all positions in government but he simply chose to deliberately give preference to men over the women,” he said.

Jawo opined that logic demands that the president should not only maintain at least one woman in one of the top leadership positions that they held in the last government but that he would increase the number of women in the cabinet rather than reduce the number to three as he has done.

He further blamed President Barrow for showing a complete lack of political will to mainstream gender in his administration.

“In fact it would not be surprising if he decides to replace the only woman regional governor whom he had appointed as minister, with a man, thus denying the women another leadership position,” Jawo stated.

By Sanna Jallow

New Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Rohey John Manjang, has described her job as huge and challenging, stressing that she really has a big task and responsibility to deliver to the Gambian people.

Speaking to Fatu Network after taking oath of office at State House on Tuesday 10th May 2022, she said people will be held accountable for the level of apathy to perform better.

“The former minister and team have done a wonderful job, but my task as the new minister is still a big one because there are too many challenges on the table. We have to be innovative because there are more demands on the table from the Gambian People,” she said.

Madam Manjang explained that it is not difficult to achieve those demands, noting that it takes bravery, honesty and confidence to deliver.

“Even when I was a governor, my main aim has been to enhance a safe, clean and friendly environment. Waste management is a very big challenge. I will work with the concerned ministries and stakeholders to see how we can realize effective waste management system.”

She urged everyone to keep their environment clean, especially the less privileged whom she said are more exposed to health issues.

The Environment Minister described climate change as a very complicated issue, adding that Gambia is feeling the pinch just like other countries. She called on members of her Ministry and other environment related sectors to work as a team in addressing perennial and emerging environmental issues.

“We have to design policies and programs that will be sustainable in the future and also help us overcome this climate change complication,” she emphasized.

By Amara Thoronka 

President of Sierra Leone, Julius Maada Bio, on Monday 9^th May 2022 officially launched the country’s bid for a seat in the non-permanent member category of United Nations Security Council, the world’s most powerful organ which determines and overseas global peace and security.

Non-permanent members are elected by the UN General Assembly for a two-year period. Sierra Leone’s bid eyes the 2024-2025 period. The last time the country served as member of the global security body was between 1971-1972. So, if it succeeds in 2024, that would mean returning to such capacity after 53 years.

While launching the nation’s bid, President Bio gave a background of Sierra Leone’s membership at the UN Security Council.

“In just eight years after Sierra Leone became a member of the United Nations, it had the singular honour to be elected to serve on the organisation’s most powerful deliberative body, the Security Council. These two unforgettable years of Sierra Leone’s tenure in the Council from 1971 to 1972, served as bold footprints that continue to define our Nation’s commitment to its international obligations and its unflinching support for a multilateral rules-based world order to advance and sustain global peace and security.”

According to the President, the country has been instrumental in maintain global peace and security, adding that Sierra Leone is once again pushing for a seat in the UN Security Council.

“As a nation, we have continued to play our part as a responsible member of the international community. At various times, Sierra Leone has proudly contributed troops and police to peace support operations so that others may enjoy the peace we enjoy today. Fifty plus years after our 1970-1971 tenure on the Security Council, we are once again presenting Sierra Leone’s candidature for a seat in the non-permanent category of the United Nations Security Council for the period 2024-2025.”

He cited that under his presidency, Sierra Leone has experienced the abolition of the death penalty, the joining of the International Religious Freedom Alliance and the repeal of the seditious libel laws.

The President pledged that, Sierra Leone will use its seat to promote global peace and security, advocate for the ownership and active involvement of women and youth in peace processes and peacekeeping operations as peace mediators and focus on threats to peace including terrorism and emerging threats.

“As a small nation that has once suffered from the dangerous effects of small arms proliferation, we will also spotlight small arms control. Also, given the centrality of Sierra Leone’s role as Coordinator of the C-10 on Security Council reform, we will continue to canvass, mobilise and promote support for the Common African

Position. We will unequivocally affirm the need for a comprehensive reform of the United Nations System, which will significantly contribute to upholding the principles, objectives and ideals of the UN Charter for a fairer world, based on universalism, equity and regional balance.”

President Bio noted that the country wants to share with the world its unique selling points such as religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and resilience to overcome threats and challenges.

He disclosed that Sierra Leone’s candidature has been endorsed by the African Union, expressing the country’s gratitude to African Union, the ECOWAS and other regional partners for the support and confidence reposed in Sierra Leone to carry the mantle for the continent.

Despite it being a small nation of about seven million people, the nation has proved itself worthy within the region and the wider world.

“Within the context of its international obligations, Sierra Leone has been taking on more responsibilities in the global arena as a small nation. Sierra Leone seats on the Special Committee on Decolonisation (C-24). For almost two decades now, Sierra Leone has served as Coordinator of the African Union Committee of Ten on the Reform of the Security Council, (C-10) with the mandate to promote, defend and canvass the Common African Position. Most recently Sierra Leone was honoured to be endorsed as the new Chair of the Africa Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) at the 35th Ordinary Session of Heads of State and Government of the AU in February this year. The list goes on, with humility, I must say that these important roles and responsibilities Sierra Leone has been taking on the global stage are a mark of trust and confidence in our small but well-respected liberal and progressive nation.”

The President called on member states of the United Nations to endorse the bid of Sierra Leone during the elections to be held at the UN General Assembly in New York in June 2023.

The United Nations Security Council is one of the principal organs of the UN and is responsible for global peace and security, admission of new members to the UN Genera Assembly, and approval of any changes to the United Nations Charter. Its powers include establishing peacekeeping operations, enacting imposing global sanctions, and authorizing military interventions. The Security Council is the only UN body with the authority to issue binding resolutions on member states.

The UN Security Council consists of 15 members. Five permanent or non-elected members and ten non-permanent or elected members. The five permanent members are United States, United Kingdom, China, Russia and France. The ten non-permanent members are elected by the United Nations General Assembly for a two-year period. Africa has 3 seats in the non-permanent members category.

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Alhagie B. Sama, a Gambian student at the University of Alberta in Canada has on Wednesday 11 May 2022 been elected Secretary-General of the Educational Policy Studies Graduate Students Association (EPSGSA),  becoming the first African student ever to be elected into such a substantial position in its student’s leadership.

Ranked among the top five universities in Canada, Mr Sama is pursuing his Master of Education in Educational Policy Studies, Education Administration and Leadership at the University of Alberta.

Speaking to The Fatu Network after his historic election as the Secretary-General of EPSGSA, Sama said he is elated to have been elected as the SG of the association.  He noted that student leadership and service are not new to him. He equally outlined that serving in such a position as Secretary-General is an honour.

“It’s indeed an honour to serve as SG in the Faculty of Education in a university that is ranked among the 5 best universities and faculty of Education in Canada. As well, becoming the first African to anchor this position”, he told TFN.

Touted to be among Gambia’s brightest young educationists, Mr Sama has a vast experience in student leadership dating back to his days at the University of The Gambia where he served as the Information and Public Relations Officer and a year on as the President of the Educational Students Association.  He also served as Deputy Secretary-General of the University of The Gambia Association.

In his new role, Sama pointed out that he is going to make sure that records of the association are well kept and will as well use the influence of his position to ensure that the plights of Education students are projected through their advocacy programme.

Alhagie B. Sama graduated from the University of The Gambia in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree (hons) in Geography and English Language.  He has close to a decade of experience in teaching English Language and Geography.

Early this year, Sama left for Canada to pursue his master’s degree at the University of Alberta, Canada.  Before his departure, he was serving as the Chairman of the Gambia Teachers Union Young Teachers Platform.

By Sanna Jallow

Alieu Badara Joof, the newly sworn-in Vice President of the Republic of the Gambia has urged new cabinet ministers to deliver to the Gambian people as expected.

Speaking to the Fatu Network just after the swearing-in of the country’s new cabinet, Joof said their appointment will only be justified if they deliver to the Gambian people as expected.

“We need to address the cost of living, crime rate, agriculture, decentralization, and empower the local communities as a way of fostering sustainable development,” he said

He noted that if self-sufficiency in rice is achieved, it would reduce the country’s import bill and that such money can be spent in other areas.

“We also have to look at the quality of the educational sector and its relevance and appropriateness. It will not only address the quality of education in the country but will also take into account skills that are necessary for youth unemployment,” he explained.

He noted that in addressing the high cost of living GCCI, Finance, Central Bank have and other government stakeholders have to implement and monitor policies that address

He stated that if they can address these issues mentioned, they would achieve 60 to 65 percent performance in their respective sectors before the end of the five years.

By: Christian Conteh

President Adama Barrow has set the tone for delivery as he welcomes his new ministerial picks. The president at a ceremony held at State House at Banjul assured the incoming Cabinet of his support whilst promising to take a zero-tolerance stance on corruption.

“I assure the in-coming Cabinet of my support, but we must take a zero-tolerance stance on corruption. We are responsible for the state resources in our custody, and should not be found wanting. Strict measures will be taken to implement the anti-corruption law; therefore, it is best we work towards making The Gambia a model country for public service delivery,” he said.

President Barrow further told new ministers that they have been identified and appointed at a time when the country’s national institutions require strong leadership, responsive policies, transformative programmes, and better results that can positively and effectively impact national development and the quality of life in the country.

He admonished them to ensure that their Ministries are run by competent staff, with the right professional, administrative, and management structures in place to function efficiently.

“Your appointments to Cabinet have come at a time when Gambians want the Government to be held accountable. This is an era in which the citizens are better informed and politically more active,” he said.

He called on the new team to help in re-doubling the collective efforts to deliver on providing better living conditions and a conducive environment that sustains improved livelihoods.

“Expectations are high, as expressed by the electorate recently. This Cabinet is expected, therefore, to generate and guide policy initiatives, and move our institutions forward to fulfil the people’s development aspirations,” he said.

He encouraged them to work in harmony, with sincerity and wisdom, while promoting peace, stability, and respect for the rule of law.

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

The newly sworn-in Vice President of the Republic of The Gambia, HE Badara Joof has told  new cabinet ministers that it is not going to be business as usual, adding that they must have strategists in place to fulfil the expectations of the people by addressing challenges.

HE Joof was speaking to new cabinet members at a swearing-in ceremony presided over by President Adama Barrow at State House earlier today.

“The task which we are called to deliver is a tall order and that requires focus. It cannot be business as usual. We must have strategies in place to fulfil the expectations of the people”, He informed the new cabinet.

HE Joof, who, until his elevation as number two in the country, was serving as the minister of Higher Education, Research, Science Technology in the last five years.

He told the new cabinet that they cannot afford to fail. He said there are expectations on them to deliver the goods to the Gambians.

The country’s new vice president also outlined that the country is currently faced with two pressing challenges that need urgent solutions. He explained the rising cost of living and security.

On the rising cost of living in the country, HE Joof challenged the new Finance Minister and Trade, Governor of Central Bank and  Gambia Revenue Authority to work with the Gambia Chamber of Commerce and business community to mitigate the high cost of living in the country.

He also exhorted the interior and defence ministries to work and the security challenges to make sure that the Gambia remains a safe place.  Joof said that these two pressing challenges need immediate plans to address them.

He went further to tell the cabinet members that they should not work in isolation. He emphasised the need for collective work to fulfil the aspirations of the President and the National Development Plan.

“We have to work as a team. We need to consult, cooperate and dialogue. Working sideways will fragment the development agenda and therefore, the realisation of the aspirations of the NDP will be undermined”, he voiced.

Vice President Joof told the new cabinet members that the position is an honour, but it is however not driven by privilege. He said that the position should be driven by performance, results and development.

By: Christian Conteh

UDP Commando Momodou Sabally has described President Barrow’s new cabinet as a dangerous hodgepodge (confused mixture).

The Former Minister of Presidential Affairs, Secretary-General and Head of the Civil Service said contrary to delusional euphoric expectations, the composition of the new Barrow Cabinet is nothing but a recipe for unprecedented inefficiency and retrogression in government operations.

He however admitted that the current set-up includes two particular appointments that he finds quite apt and exciting.

“I cannot query the appointment of former utility czar Abdou Jobe as Energy and Petroleum Minister and the elevation of Professor Gomez to the higher education portfolio, it is quite a great move. I hope the duo will not prove me wrong and I pray for their success in their new roles,” Sabally wrote.

He went on to note that it is difficult to dig a well when your compatriots are pouring back all the sand you are excavating into the hole you are digging. Indicating that the few good appointees have been outnumbered by the many rotten potatoes and, therefore, the already beleaguered government machinery is not about to get better any time soon.

“Things are not working right; as the Wolof would put it ‘dara dohut!. The signs have already manifested even before he unveiled his new set-up; during his recent meeting with the Banjul Muslim Elders, President Barrow could not hide his frustration about the poor performance of his government. Perhaps this frustration is what he misdirected at the innocent Madi Jobarteh whose only offence was to point out the very sclerotic nature of Barrow’s government.”

He admitted that the new Vice President speaks the English language exceptionally well and that he says is a big plus. He however noted that during his tenure as minister, the higher education sub-sector witnessed nothing but retrogression with perennial strikes by the staff union of the country’s only public University.

He blamed the Vice President the then minister for refusing to deal with the critical issues affecting the performance and welfare of the university faculty and staff.

“Instead of working with the leadership to resolve these problems, Badara Joof used his typical manipulative tricks; beguiling some, bullying others, and ‘buying’ the loyalty of one former head of the university staff union who conspired with Badara to deprive his own union members of their requests for welfare enhancement,” Sabally narrated.

He questioned the president’s decision to retain Dr. Samateh in the health portfolio, amidst the rising rates of maternal mortality and medical malpractice; in addition to the allegation of financial malpractice regarding the COVID 19 millions. This he said is tantamount to disrespecting and spiting the people at the receiving end, including women, children and the taxpayers.

“Dr Samateh has been rewarded for incompetence; and for holding press conferences to accuse the suffering women of this country of protesting for political motives when they are dying daily due to poor health services rendered under Samateh’s watch.”

The most important portfolio of Basic and Secondary Education he said remains in the hands of Claudiana Cole, whom he described as incompetent and lackadaisical.

Finally, he described the transformation of the position of Secretary-General and Head of the Civil Service into two offices as a recipe for disaster. Adding that, there is no need to appoint a Chief of Staff under the current dispensation.