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‘Our manifestos match’: Henry Gomez discloses why his party chose to work with NPP

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GPDP chief Henry Gomez has lifted the lid on why his party chose an alliance with President Adama Barrow’s National People’s Party.

He told The Fatu Network during NPP’s launching on Saturday: “Our manifestos match together. Our manifesto is saying equal rights and justice for everybody which means ‘mo beye balu’ – and this is what President Adama Barrow is giving the Gambian people. And also the two-term limit which is also in our manifesto and also gender equality is also in our manifesto.”

Some pundits have claimed GPDP’s bromance with NPP is a tactical move to ensure the party doesn’t die.

But the party’s leader Gomez has laughed at such claims saying: “We will never use NPP to survive. I think those who are saying this saw what happened in the congress of GPDP then they will know that GPDP is not a one-man show.”

NPP says they invited UDP but UDP’s spokesman says Darboe did not receive any invitation

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The National People’s Party invited UDP to its launching held on Saturday at the Independence Stadium in Bakau.

The party invited all political parties in the country with Essa Dampha tasked to make sure all an invitation card is delivered to all parties.

Dampha told The Fatu Network he gave UDP’s invitation to Karafa Sonko on Friday.

However, UDP spokesman Almamy Taal told The Fatu Network the senior administrative secretary did not receive any formal invitation neither has the party leader received any invitation. He however said the senior administrative secretary will check with other party leaders.

President Barrow grooves to Jaliba’s song and goes on to warn NPP’s rivals to be careful

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President Adama Barrow waved as he grooved to a song by top musician Jaliba Kuyateh during the launching of National People’s Party at the Independence Stadium on Saturday.

Thousands of Gambians on Saturday gathered at the Independence Stadium in Bakau to witness the launching of NPP as a political party.

The president swung his body to the sides, right and left and vice versa, waving at the crowd of supporters – as Jaliba sang him a song.

Speaking in Mandinka, the president said NPP was still a baby but a baby that has puzzled many. He said the baby began walking and speaking as soon as it was born.

The president said: “It’s a baby that’s bewildering. It started talking and speaking as soon as it was born. It went to Niamina took part in the wrestling there and won. It also went to Jokadu and won.

“So anyone who is a wrestler should be mindful of this wrestler. This wrestler is a very strong wrestler and it has a new wrestling kit on and on December 4, 2021 it will fight and it will win. Today’s launching has shown how December 4 will look like.”

 

Full text of President Barrow’s speech at NPP launch ceremony

I am thankful that we are here today, for the grand launching of our party, the National People’s Party – NPP. It has been a year since our party was registered but the launching was delayed because the world has been overwhelmed by the Coronavirus pandemic.

Globally, experts are trying to find more lasting solutions but in the meantime, we will have to live with managing and containing the virus in-order to prevent its further spread. Thus it has become mandatory to wear facial mask, wash our hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer regularly, while we avoid hand shaking. These are some preventive measured important for our safety and to contain the spread of COVID -19.

To proceed, let me begin this historic event in the annals of the political evolution of our country by sharing some of the questions I reflected on before embarking on my political journey. In fact, I believe that all genuine citizens should ask themselves such questions as: “What defines a person’s credibility? How is a citizen’s mission determined, and who should define such a noble mission? How do we earn the reputation of a patriot in one’s land?

How do we design the footprints we leave behind after bowing out from public life? When is it mandatory to serve humanity, and when is it time to quit?

I have learnt that in answering these questions, we must be guided by history and the existing circumstances of our era; by our insight into life and our vision for the future; by a keen sense of purpose and a clear sense of direction; by passion and commitment, and by the degree of our sincerity and how high we can rise above our ego.

I am convinced that in urging me to form a political party to contest the 2021 Presidential Election, the people of this nation must have assessed me and my performance.

Furthermore, I am convinced that your confidence in me, as a nation, is based on sound reasoning and wise judgment, hence your call for me to lead this historic voyage.

It is with much humility and profound gratitude, therefore, that I register my appreciation of the faith and confidence that the Gambian population have in me and their encouragement and support for me to champion the cause of this nation under the banner of a new Party. This is what has given birth to the National People’s Party (NPP), which we are here to officially launch today.

I have accepted to form this party, together with all of you to provide a platform for us to collectively fight the social divisions, political cracks and institutional failures that have persistently undermined the peace, stability, progress and development of our dear motherland.

Be assured that this is a party devoted to creating, expanding and sustaining space for popular participation in development as politically mature, democratic, patriotic and economically independent citizens.

To define these, my view is that political maturity is reflected by how well we behave, act and respond to our civic responsibilities, and not how vulgar, how ambitious and how violent we are or can be.

On the other hand, democratic maturity is demonstrated through the exercise of our rights without infringing upon the rights and freedoms of others. By the same token, patriotic maturity is shown by how much we selflessly contribute to development, and how we refrain from undermining the progress and development of the nation and the people. It is the combination of all these that defines the type of citizens we are.

This new Party, the NPP, represents the present and the future, and it is here for all Gambian citizens within the frame of a new political consciousness and a new direction. It is the party for all categories of people, based on the concept of true democratic and patriotic Gambian citizenship.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The NPP is the outcome of the commitment to sustain the change that was brought about in 2016 and the public outcry for freedom, justice, peace, progress and dignity, as well as for fundamental rights and liberties.

It is anchored in a well-defined approach to harness our human and material resources in order to address our challenges, manage our circumstances better and redirect the course of our destiny for the common good.

To guide the Party, a comprehensive manifesto has been developed. This manifesto, which is now available, is the result of an in-depth search for options and possibilities that meaningful change can bring about in the country.

In it, we offer alternatives to rescue the Gambian citizens whose talent and potential have either been wasted, untapped or ruthlessly exploited for decades.

We offer a governance construct that is truly rooted in uprightness, sincerity and accountability, complemented by the drive to promote and sustain equitable and efficient service delivery and justice for all. We bring a new and vigorous infusion of vision, talent and leadership that boldly maintains that our democracy must be re-energised to broaden and secure the scope and grounds on which our people can make informed choices, and live decent lives.

Our Party’s vision is to build “a nation we can be proud to call home.” This is derived from the desire for positive, transformative change that will result in an all-inclusive, all-progressive and an accomplished society of happy, peaceful, dignified and united people who are proud to call The Gambia home.

We believe in democracy for good governance, as defined by law and approved by the people. We do not believe in any form of government that contravenes The Gambia’s shared ideals and values. Accordingly, we denounce and reject all forms of dictatorship and degrading treatment of human beings or communities. We believe that all are equal before the law, and all human beings have the same fundamental rights to life and good living.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

We have realised formidable successes over the past few years under my leadership, which we need to build on. To ensure continuity, we will fully engage all sections of society, especially the private sector. We are convinced that it is imperative to explore all types of investment avenues in an inclusive manner to ensure development.

Under my leadership, during the last four years, the close working relationship established among Gambians and the external support provided to implement our National Development Plan (2018-2021) have led to sustained and impressive economic growth, with GDP at its highest margin. Until recently, when the Coronavirus pandemic struck, various sectors have registered significant increases in their output levels. We consider every sector important; thus, all sectors will continue to receive due attention.

Chairperson,

The Gambia has a youthful population of 64%. Although a Ministry for Youth affairs has existed for decades, it has not competently addressed the youth predicament.

We believe that the youth should be meaningfully involved in discussions, and decision making on youth matters intensified as part of the strategies to address youth unemployment, crime, illegal migration, drug abuse and all the vices associated with this invaluable resource of the nation.

The NPP maintains that it is most pressing to pay more attention to the youth, and ensure that their lives and potential are not wasted. To achieve these objectives, we invite the youth of this country to rally behind the NPP, and work with the Party leadership in the interest of all Gambians. We are natural allies!

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The women of The Gambia are part of the political and economic vanguard of the nation. They constitute a bigger percent of the Gambian population than their male compatriots, and contribute very significantly towards nation building. In spite of this, they are grossly disadvantaged in Gambian society.

Their literacy levels, leadership roles, participation in decision making and economic circumstances fall far below average in comparison to their male counterparts.

In view of all these, the NPP will prioritise policy decisions to alleviate their suffering. We accept the women as equals and partners, and will stand by them. Gender issues and matters affecting all disadvantaged and minority groups, including those that are physically or mentally challenged in one way or another, will be given more attention.

Chairperson,

We believe that our legal and judicial system should be independent, efficient, trustworthy and balanced to ensure due legal processes and procedures, safeguard the interests of all stakeholders and promote accountability for appropriate action. Therefore, we will pursue the reform agenda of our Judicial and Justice systems with vigour.

On education, the NPP holds the view that the quality of a people and their rate of development and advancement are closely linked to the level and quality of their education and the nature of their education system. In this respect, we maintain that public educational institutions should provide improved quality educational services.

In defining and providing quality education, an NPP Government will strive to make the Gambian education system more equitable and better balanced to yield desirable outcomes. Thus, education will be used as a tool for the development of the country and advancement of all within the nation.

Chairperson,

As a Government, we plan to increase investments into the health sector, and make health care more affordable to all. More attention will be focused on mothers and children, and support will be provided to help senior citizens to stay active and engaged. In this regard, we plan to increase health care spending, and build more general hospitals, community hospitals and day-care centres.

We will endeavour also to provide greater retirement assurance through better pension schemes, as demonstrated by the new Pension Scheme enacted recently.

Although Government cannot dictate how the economy should behave, as the pandemic has shown, it is possible to put a sharp focus on all sectors and nurture the right environment for productive and creative activity therein. In light of this, each sector will be required to generate significant output levels and wealth, register growth and create jobs. Of particular importance, as an example, is the Agriculture sector.

As an NPP Government, we plan to unfold and implement an ambitious modernisation plan to address our infrastructure challenges. Examples of proposed projects include roads, drainage systems, street lighting and waste management, among many others.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

We acknowledge the need to set up National Agencies to groom Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs). Our plans are to ensure an effective capital funding system to cater for the capital needs of local businesses, keep business costs down and distribute key resources to local businesses.

Chairperson,

The transition period thus far, 2017-2020, has been marked by tremendous success in fostering cordial and fruitful friendship and relations with the international community. These include International Organisations and countries around the world. Such relations need to be cemented in the best interest of The Gambia. To preserve the progress registered within this short span of time, and to strengthen our ties with the world, our external relations will be guided by active diplomacy and an all-inclusive foreign policy.

The Gambia will continue to participate actively in international organisations, and will accord Gambian citizens the right, privilege and honour to compete on the global stage and take their rightful places.

On security, I must observe that our survival as a dignified people rests on our security as Gambian nationals and the sovereignty, peace and stability of our nation. We declare that an NPP Government will give the fullest support to the Armed and Security Services. We will endeavour to have a well-trained and better equipped Armed and Security Services to enable them discharge their duties professionally.

Under an NPP Government, the Security Services Sector reforms and the transformation process started during the era of the transition Government will be sustained.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The NPP leadership understands that development rests on knowledge and skills. As a result, the NPP is willing and very ready to find common grounds and collaborate with all Gambian citizens.

An NPP President will be the President of all; so, we welcome the participation and services of all categories and types of professionals, experts and scholars. We recognise that the elite have a role in society; therefore, we welcome them all to the NPP. I assure everyone that our Party stands for the unity, progress and happiness of all Gambians at home and in the Diaspora.

Gambians are Gambians, no matter wherever they may be, or whatever they may be doing. It is the duty of the Government of the day to protect and respond to their needs.

In this light, the welfare of Gambians in the Diaspora shall be our concern, and we will encourage them, like all other Gambian nationals, to participate in the affairs of the NPP and, most effectively, in national development. They are an invaluable resource, and should be given space to operate functionally.

We lament the number of Gambians who were forced to go into exile voluntarily or involuntarily. Consequently, we are bound to emphasise that The Gambia is their land of birth, their home and the nation of their kit and kin. We urge them to be part of the process of healing and building the nation. Like every citizen in the country, all Gambians in the Diaspora are assured of their full rights as Gambians.

Chairperson,

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

To conclude, our party recognises that Gambian citizens have to appreciate our nation within a new type and level of political consciousness that puts emphasis on growth and development, stability, progress and professionalism within the context of positive change.

Our manifesto highlights the reality underlying our national sovereignty and the need for active and productive citizens. We maintain that politics is not about party animosity. It is about citizenship and service to a people who share a common identity and must act according to accepted values and agreed principles, regulatory systems and procedures.

We admit that the responsibility rests on the leadership of a nation to propel growth, development and progress, in addition to satisfying the essentials of social life through well-established and functional institutions. This has to come about through efficient management and judicious use of the resources that are available.

With the necessary programmes that respond to the needs of the Gambian community, there is no doubt that the National People’s Party and the entire Gambian nation will register unprecedented successes in the years ahead. This is attainable if we give the Party the mandate to translate the proposals in our manifesto into action. Collectively, we can deliver.

The best option for every Gambian is to join us on this national mission. For NPP, every citizen has a responsibility to make The Gambia a better place for all. As a result, we invite you all to come on board. The people come first on our agenda; therefore, join us to make history. Together, let us build a nation we can proudly call home.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

In opening this address, I referred to several questions on issues of credibility, citizenship and patriotic service to one’s nation and humanity. To answer those questions, let me reassure you that I am credible, ready, willing and able to serve this nation according to the Constitution of the Land. All I ask for is your support.

With these remarks, it is my singular joy and honour to launch the National People’s Party in the name of all citizens of The Gambia and on behalf of the National People’s Party leadership, militants and entire membership.

I thank all those who have contributed to the success of this historic occasion, and I thank all of you who have come to be part of the event, especially our members who travelled from the Diaspora to witness this grand launching.

I now officially declare the National People’s Party launched.

May Allah bless and help us all.

Long live the Republic of The Gambia!

Long live the National People’s Party!

President Barrow declares NPP represents the present and future after arguing Gambians must have assessed his performance before calling on him to run for office again

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President Adama Barrow has stated officially launched National People’s Party represents the present and the future – which is here for all citizens.

“This new Party, the NPP, represents the present and the future, and it is here for all Gambian citizens within the frame of a new political consciousness and a new direction. It is the party for all categories of people, based on the concept of true democratic and patriotic Gambian citizenship,” President Barrow said Saturday evening while addressing thousands of his supporters.

NPP was formed a little over a year ago with President Barrow emerging as its leader. In a manifesto obtained by The Fatu Network, the president announced he will run in the December President election.

And in his speech on Saturday evening, the president insisted Gambians must have assessed his performance and felt satisfied prompting them to ask him to stay on as president.

“I am convinced that in urging me to form a political party to contest the 2021 Presidential Election, the people of this nation must have assessed me and my performance.

“Furthermore, I am convinced that your confidence in me, as a nation, is based on sound reasoning and wise judgment, hence your call for me to lead this historic voyage,” the president said.

‘I cannot betray your trust’: President Barrow announces he will contest December poll

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By Lamin Njie, at the Independence Stadium

President Adama Barrow has announced he will contest the December presidential election – in a manifesto seen by The Fatu Network.

President Barrow arrived at the Independence Stadium Saturday evening to preside over the official launching of his National People’s Party.

And in the party’s manifesto seen by The Fatu Network, the president speaking there said ‘I’m standing by the people of this country to contest as a presidential candidate and head of state of the third republic of The Gambia’.

“The reality is that I cannot abandon you nor can I betray your trust,” the president said in the manifesto.

He also said: “Worse still, I cannot ignore the instinctive patriotic calling deep inside me and fail to put my services at your disposal.”

UDP supporters set in motion Darboe choice-for-president challenge hours before NPP launching

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UDP supporters have commenced taking part in a challenge hours before NPP adherents gather at the Independence Stadium for the official launch of their party.

UDP and NPP will be the biggest political forces one should watch out for in the presidential election in December.

NPP is President Adama Barrow’s party and it will be officially launched on Saturday afternoon at the Independence Stadium in Bakau where thousands of Gambians are expected to attend.

Hours before their launching, UDP supporters online have kick-started a challenge dubbed #mychoiceforpresidentindecemberchallenge.

Yunus Hydara accepted the challenge and shared a photo himself and Darboe.

The slow return of COVID! Massive 71 new cases discovered by health ministry

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The ministry of health has said in its latest report released on Friday 71 new cases of COVID-19 have been registered bringing the total number of COVID-19 cases ever confirmed in the country to 4,090.

Of these, 38 and 33 cases were confirmed on the 27 and 28 January respectively, the health ministry said.

According to the ministry the new coronavirus patients include 22 female and 49 male who are between the ages of 5 to 79.

Over 75% of these new cases sought to be tested on account of being intending travellers who required a COVID-19 test certificate, the health ministry said.

One-time NIA special ops commander Lamin Darboe keeps thanking Essa Faal who keeps slamming him for lying during lacklustre TRRC showdown

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One-time commander of a so-called unit of the National Intelligence Agency responsible for arresting high profile personalities kept thanking Essa Faal as the lawyer kept censuring him for lying.

Lamin Darboe stood his ground throughout that he never raised his hand to inflict pain on anyone with regards to the more than 100 people he arrested.

“Counsel if you make me rush, I may lie,” Darboe bizarrely told Essa Faal during one instance after the lawyer told him lying is difficult.

During his testimony elsewhere, Darboe vowed he will never accept any claim he tortured anyone.

“I will never accept that I tortured somebody,” Lamin Darboe a former commander of special operations unit of the NIA told the TRRC while testifying before the probe on Thursday.

“Is that a matter of principle?” TRRC lawyer asked him.

“I never tortured anybody,” he replied.

“You only beat, you don’t torture?” Faal asked in a follow-up question.

“You associate me with beating already, I accept it. But I did not do it. I said I never take my hand and beat anybody in my office,” Darboe responded.

Darboe during the session kept thanking Faal who kept telling him he was lying. His stance led to top commissioner Imam Jallow branding him the ‘most difficult’ witness that ever appeared before the TRRC.

GIBRIL SAINE – OPINION: Gambia, All The President’s Men

Somehow, there are certain people in the world, who walk the earth’s surfaces as if entitled to all the goodness there is. In The Gambia, meanwhile, boasting some twelve (dormant) political parties & counting, could it be that the pomp & pageantry synonymous with presidential politics with its network of cars and ministers and security detail & agents entices irresistible thrills worth game. This morning, as I reminisce on the chorus of hardworking families going about life in sweltering heat for an honourable survival, it soon dawn to me that the country’s empirical sovereignty is somewhat risked, tackled from behind, but for political brinkmanship. Common sense has to prevail, and quickly at that – given great confusion & uncertainty in the world.

On the economic front – Since independence, conflict expectations in regional geopolitics has not brought any success to West Africa. War fatigue exists, hence nation-states have come to realise that peace & improved trade relations is the pragmatic conduit to economic prosperity. The Gambia need to strategically plan spread wing across West Africa & beyond if gov’t is truly serious about ambitions on being a middle-income country in the near term.

While it is admirable that normalisation has occurred between Banjul and Washington, and such countries of the European Union, the initial excitement has failed to translate into any fruitful gains. Where is the annual trade volume with EU member countries, or opportunities AGOA (United States) offers?! Historically, Banjul had done quite well in export trade during the Jawara era, Jammeh impaired it – though Barrow’s gov’t has failed to kick-start manufacturing as promised in its white paper. Questions will be asked of the trade ministry – is it leadership vacuum, or just a lack of critical understanding on the utility of trade?!

On due diligence – Before any sneezes, one only need to look at the attitude of certain civil servants during negotiations with quote on quote “foreign” investors. For instance, a trade ministry official who charged that the navy was too harsh on Chinese fishing trawlers despite caught red-handed in territorial waters; or signing up the airport to foreign firms charging own citizens exorbitant arrival fees for a 25% pocket change. How can the government justify such criminal contracts, never mind the throwaway deal handed Semlex with regards to national (passport) documentation: The latter expires this year, all eyes are wide open on the tendering process.

Government officials need sit confident at negotiating tables face their interlocutors as equals, regardless whom or what country that may be. Knowledge of the world and beyond is important, even the more reason for politicians & such people of high society to promote books, readings on our history & culture. Young Gambians today need good role models who inspires away from harmful streets. See, curiosity allows for critical thinking, thus, intellectual growth!

On Security Sector Reforms – The much talked about SSR necessitated by need has been an abysmal failure. Those put in charge do not seem eager enough, or know what they’re doing in regards to the critical task at hand. Thing is, the president must take a firm interest in that excise, because the country’s future depends on it. Four years in with millions already wasted with little or nothing to show for it – why da heck does Africa’s executives reward incompetence, heads must roll.

Similarly, the issue of continued Ecomig Troop Presence on Gambian soil is the genesis of this grudge. To be crystal clear, one does reserve high regard for the office of the presidency, yet still resolved to hold the administration to account on its policies: For God’s sake, here is a country in peace time – not war time – yet narrow interest continues to inform Ecomig “peacekeeping” mission with no shred of evidence for what it actually does. The president must not again negotiate any foreign troop presence on Gambian soil without the prior consent of Parliament. A violation of which endangers national security – triggering a vote of no confidence in parliament.

And since it costs the tax payer over D50 million annually to feed Gambian soldiers, per Defence Ministry stats, what is the point of the army or police then left side-tracked & side-lined for reasons still unclear. Four years in with no semblance of needed reforms, the status quo is unsustainable – parliamentary oversight is nigh:

On Impounded Weapons & Cocaine Scandal – The crisis unfolding in Gambian waters and (un)safe streets should not be left to rest. How can it be after all: Sue me (lol), questionable characters should never be allowed anywhere near the State House, nor the president’s side. Crimes must not go unpunished, for the rule of law need apply fairly given national security implications in full glare. Mr president, the country’s development partners are worried asking questions – will the government get its act together learn from history!!!

Cabinet Reshuffle – With a handful of poor performing ministers since the change, fresh ideas are needed at cabinet. The president will have been aware that critical reforms are required at the foreign ministry with regards to personnel & policy choices. Indications are that slippages [ ] respect to pursuance or strengthening the national interest element, secrecy, the world around us – and Gambia’s role in how the world ought to work. My considered view, regrettably, is that foreign minister Tangara lacks the personal touch required of the role. He would no doubt make for a good ambassador to France.

And again, assigning ambassadorial positions to persons with little obvious relevant expertise endangers national interest. Clearly such posts are key to securing Gambia’s interests abroad. The president has to be advised that political appointments undermine the country’s long term interests, as they will almost inevitably change with change in government – Does UDP appointees offer any clues here!

On the Debacle @ IEC – When you thought it could not get any cloudier, a standoff at the Independent Electoral Commission was the latest to come to fore. A self-inflicted crisis bore out of greed, excessive greed that is. Alhagie Momar Njie, once held in high steads, but the cavalier manner that noble institution was run since the change of gov’t is nothing short of contempt. I once wrote to congratulate him, to accord the man deserved fanfare for his stance @ election 2016. The problem with some people is that praise goes to their head quickly.

Let me express high confidence in Gambia Public Procurement Authority (GPPA), its Director General in particular, for his candour, standing by principles seeing to it that fairness ensures in protecting tax payer funds. Three million dollars, the press had said, IEC chose to single source to a German electioneering firm, when local firms could be helped to scale up. Why not accommodate local firms with such lucrative payment so as to secure own future. Don’t you see that’s exactly what China had done to be in this enviable economic position today. The Gambian people expect better decisions from those in charge. And the sooner IEC comes under new leadership, the better for needed reforms – The National Audit Office (NAO) needs to be better!

On NPP Scheduled Bash – The government’s own figures have indicated that Covid-19 infections are on the UP in the country. That should worry us all for a life & death scenario causing havoc on nation states. So how can such an super-spreader political event now proceed after all, unless an administration that contradicts itself, i.e. making rules and breaking them. President Barrow needs to look closely @ the Banjul skyline, understand that the health of the nation is the highest law!!!

#LoveGambia #RiverGambia

Gibril Saine

Covid-19 could have a long-term effect on male fertility, study claims

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Covid-19 could have a long-term effect on male fertility, a study in Germany has claimed.

Scientists compared semen quality in groups of men who had recovered from the virus to those who had never contracted it.

They found that having had Covid-19 appeared to lead to ‘lower sperm quality and reduced fertility potential’.

The sperm were more likely to be deformed, the researchers found, to be less mobile and to be found in lower concentrations in the semen, which could make it more difficult to conceive.

Effects of Covid on people’s ability to have children has not been widely studied because the disease has more devastating effects on the lungs, heart and blood vessels which have required more urgent scientific attention.

It was not exactly clear how coronavirus affected the testicles, the scientists said, although fever – a common symptom of Covid – is known to be able to damage them.

The damage to sperm quality appeared to reduce after time, with it returning towards normal levels as more time elapsed after infection, but the effects were worse in men who had been more severely ill.

Following the study, researchers advised men who survived Covid to have their reproductive health checked before trying for a baby – but warned their findings were not concrete.

Experts at Justus-Liebig University in Giessen, Germany, analysed 84 men with Covid- 19 and 105 age-matched control subjects, without the virus, taking measurements every 10 days for 60 days.

The study found a significant deterioration in semen quality up to 60 days after the illness.

When they compared the two groups they found that indicators that could make a men less able to father a child were significantly more common among men who had had Covid.

These included signs of swelling, sperm cell death and oxidative stress, which is when volatile chemicals build up in living tissues because of cells not working properly.

The concentration of sperm was reduced by up to 516 per cent and its mobility dropped by 209 per cent, the study said, although all the men were still confirmed to be fertile.

The reduction in mobility and concentration of sperm, as well as a significant altering of their shape which is critical to their ability to move through the cervix and uterus, led to a state called OAT.

OAT is known scientifically as oligoasthenoteratozoospermia and is a common cause of low fertility among men.

The lead researcher on the study, PhD student Behzad Hajizadeh Maleki said: ‘These effects on sperm cells are associated with lower sperm quality and reduced fertility potential.

‘Although these effects tended to improve over time, they remained significantly and abnormally higher in the Covid-19 patients, and the magnitude of these changes were also related to disease severity.’

Although the Giessen team’s findings seem worrying, other scientists say they want more research and longer term evidence to be convinced about Covid’s real effects on fertility.

Male fertility is known to be affected by fevers because the testicles cannot function as well at high internal temperatures.

Fever is one of the most common symptoms of the coronavirus so this link could account for some of the damage seen in the team’s study. Often the damage is reversible and reduces over time.

Professor Alison Murdoch, a fertility expert at Newcastle University, said: ‘It is well documented that adverse changes are frequently seen after systemic illness with recovery typically taking at least 3 months.

‘As the authors acknowledge, their findings may be such a nonspecific response. Thus, longer term studies are needed before the testes is considered to be a high-risk organ specific to Covid-19.

‘It is important to note that there is no evidence of Covid-19 virus in the semen and that there is no evidence that virus can be transmitted via semen.’

Professor Allan Pacey, an expert in andrology at the University of Sheffield, also urged caution over the findings, saying: ‘Since sperm production takes just under three months, roughly, to be completed from start to finish, in my opinion they ended the study 30 days too soon.’

Another study found last year that Covid-19 may be able to deplete testosterone stores in the body, which could be expected to have an impact on male fertility, which is controlled by the sex hormone.

Researchers in Turkey analysed levels of the sex hormone in 200 men who were in hospital after they tested positive for Covid-19.

More than half (51 per cent) had developed a condition called hypogonadism, in which their bodies did not produce enough testosterone. On average, participants’ levels were drained by 30 per cent post-infection to borderline unhealthy levels.

Academics claimed there was a direct correlation between severe illness and lower testosterone levels.

But, even among men who showed no symptoms of the virus at all, two thirds reported having a lowered sex drive – a tell-tale sign of low testosterone.

As well as being key in the development of sex organs and muscle growth, testosterone also helps regulate the immune responses, including fighting viral infections.

Low levels have been linked to an increased risk of dying from the flu, as well as inflammation, heart disease and high blood pressure. (DailyMail)

 

 

Zubairu Dada carries Nigeria leader Muhammadou Buhari’s message of love to President Barrow

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Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Nigeria Zubairu Dada met President Adama Barrow as a special envoy of President Muhamdu Buhari, according to State House.

After a closed-door meeting with President Barrow, the special envoy disclosed to the media that he came to deliver a goodwill message from President Buhari, stating it is a message of love ‘from brother to brother, according to State House on its official Facebook page.

“To keep being friends, it is important to keep in touch. Buhari is interested in assisting The Gambia on its transition,” Dada noted, according to State House.

Nigeria played a big role in the 2016 Gambian political impasse when the country contributed troops and a fighter jet in sacking former President Yahya Jammeh.

Dada’s visit comes less than two months after President Barrow travelled to Nigeria to thank President Buhari for the support Nigeria has rendered the country since 2017.

During that visit, President Buhari told President Barrow kicking Jammeh out of power was in the interest of the entire ECOWAS region.

‘false information and lies…’: Stadium authorities break their silence as they say ST’s statement contains lies

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The management of the Independence Stadium has issued a statement blasting ST’s statement as containing lies and false information.

A statement signed by general manager Ebou Faye and released on Friday read:

“The Stadium management is totally disheartening [sic] and flabbergasted with the false information and lies contained in the ST and his Management press release issued on the 28th January 2021 to media houses and social media in regards to the usage of the stadium facilities.

“The ST Management had no approval, agreement or contract with the stadium for the use of its facilities. ST and one of his management team visited the stadium on the 14thJanuary 2021 to discuss the use of the stadium for his album launching in which they were informed that all musical concerts and shows are no longer allow in the main bowl. Instead, the Bella Arena is created to host such events from now on. On the 15th January 2021, a formal request was received by the stadium management from the ST Management and they were given approval for the use of the Bella Arena.

“The Kiss Daniel concert they are alluding to was given approval since 2019 which we were bound to honour even though we tried as much as possible to stop them using themain bowl.

“The stadium has invested immense resource to create and improve the Bella Arena and Event Organisers were invited for their inputs and advise to ensure the Arena meets the required standard.

“There have been many requests from other Gambian artist for the use of the main bowl and all of them were referred to the Bella Arena which is solely created for musical events. The Arena has the capacity and the standard to host any musical program or artist.

“As much as we all want to celebrate our Gambian musicians and artist for the immense strides and promotion of our music, the stadium will always be made available for them but at the Bella Arena including ST. His D30, 000 advance payment is still available for the use of the Bella Arena for the launching of his album if he completes the full payment.”

 

President Barrow gives nation’s young footballers two million dalasis, tells them he ‘follows’ football

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President Adama Barrow has told the nation’s young soccer players he ‘follows’ football as he congratulated them on their WAFU heroics.

The National U-20 team won the WAFU regional championship played in Dakar recently – and the team was at State House on Thursday Jan 28.

“I will seize this opportunity to congratulate the team., to congratulate the technicians, the president of the Gambia Football Association, the ministry and the entire Gambian people. I think you have made us proud, you have raised the Gambian flag high, it is always sweet to win but the sweeter against Senegal,” the president told the young footballers.

According to the president, he is a ‘big’ fan of football and “I follow football despite with my busy schedule but I create time to watch football”.

“I even watched the match that you played, the final. But I was not very comfortable knowing the history between Gambia and Senegal. But you did very well, you were committed, you were patient, you were disciplined and the most important thing was self-belief,” the president said.

 

Chinese medical experts who trained nation’s frontline health workers talk to President Barrow about their role in Gambia’s COVID-19 war

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Chinese medical experts met with President Adama Barrow where they updated him on their role in consolidating The Gambia’s gains in the fight against Covid-19 and to ensure public safety in the pandemic as well present medicine and medical equipment for Epidemic Control.

The experts met President Barrow alongside Chinese Ambassador Ma Jianchun on Thursday, according to a statement by State House. The health minister was with them.

“For the past three months, the Chinese team trained frontline health workers in Coivid19 prevention, diagnosis, and prevention of infections in medical institutions. They also provided guidance and treatment for the patients in critical conditions,” State House said in a statement.

In his statement, President Barrow commended China for supporting his government since he assumed leadership four years ago, adding his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, has fulfilled all the pledges he made to his government, State House said.

Good sea depth: Ports begins dredging, massive 100,000cu m involved

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By Ousman Jatta

Gambia Ports Authority has commenced dredging the sea and a staggering 100,000m cu will be dredged.

GPA is partnering with SINOMAJILAC for the month-long activity which started on Tuesday with reporters invited to cover the initial exercise.

Kulay Manneh is the Harbour Master at the Gambia ports authority and he told reporters: ‘’The harbour is located in an estuary, and the estuary is influenced by the in and out flow of water currents, and water coming in and out of the ocean.

“The movement of water goes with sand sediments, mud and other materials. Regular dredging has to be conducted to maintain good depth.”

Banka Manneh the public relation and communications officer for SinoMajilac vowed that his company with carry out the job professionally.

“We will carry our job professionally and ethically, Manneh said.

GPA occasionally dredge the sea to enable vessels to navigate and this year’s activity will see at least 100,000cu m dredged.

‘She deserves the world’: Alleged mom killer Musa Camara describes his mom as ‘hardest’ working mom in 2015 Mother’s Day tribute

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A 22-year-old Gambian man who allegedly shot his mother to death in New York wrote his mother a beautiful tribute five years ago.

Musa Camara in a Mother’s Day tribute in 2015 described Binta Danson as one of the ‘hardest’ working women ‘there can be’. He then said boldly the woman deserve the world and ‘she gonna get it’, in his tribute he posted to his personal Facebook page.

Gambians in New York and beyond were this week left horrified following news Musa shot his mother in the head during an argument over his laziness. There are reports he has mental issues and a psychiatric evaluation on him was underway according to reports by local media.

Meanwhile, Facebook users took to Musa’s account commenting on a photo of himself he posted in July last year.

Aicha Milanoo wrote: “I hope you rot in prison allah did not put you in this world just to take ur moms life away.”

Zeynab Sissoko Kanteh commented: “I hope Allah punishes you.”

Carmelo Delva said: “Who shot their mom really, your own mother carrying you for 9 months. Loved you cared for you feee you and just because she wanted you to be productive you killed her.”

Seaview Group, owners of Bambo Hotel, dismisses health ministry’s claims

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By Ousman Jatta

The management of Seaview Group has slammed accusations by the ministry of health of having problems with them prompting the ministry to move its coronavirus patients from Bambo Hotel to elsewhere as totally false.

Since the onset of the Coronavirus pandemic, the Seaview Group were the first hotel operators to partner with the ministry of health, by receiving patients who tested positive for covid-19 and needed to undergo fourteen days’ quarantine. However, the recent comments by the ministry of health, has disenchanted the management of the group.

“We have been there when everybody shut their doors up, because most of the hotels where saying that they will not take anyone, since day one we have been with the ministry of health, we have been supporting them, we been sacrificing for them, Every single day,” Manager Matta Ceesay told the Fatu Network in an exclusive interview.

“We are a Gambian own hotel, we are helping Gambians because 75% of the patients are Gambians, so if we shut up our doors, who will help them, no one! At the end of the day, no one want to go to sanatorium, no wants to go to Demban, because they are already traumatizing.

“If anything happens I think the patients are the ones who are supposed to complain, because they are the wants dwelling in the hotel and can therefore say that they did not like the hotel services,” she added.

The Fatu Network spoke with the patients and none shared any report of having issues with the hotel. They instead complained the health ministry officials asked them to move to another hotel because the president is visiting the area.

ST’s management issues statement as row with Stadium authorities rages

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The management of musician ST said in a statement on Thursday they received a letter from Independence Stadium General Manager Ebou Faye that he would no longer be allowed to use the stadium for his upcoming album launch.

The statement read;

“It is with utter dismay and disappointment that the Management of ST Brikama Boyo confirms to you that the officials of the Independence Stadium refuse to grant our request to use the Independence Stadium grounds to stage the Dinding Mansa album launching concert on February 6th, 2021.

“ST’s album launching is a regular fixture in the Calendar year, and for the past three years, the stadium has been the traditional venue. With that understanding, a 40% down-payment was done about seven (7) months ago in anticipation of the event. Since then, considerable investment and resources went into the planning and organizing of the mega event with the Stadium grounds in mind.

“To our shock and consternation, on the 15th January 2021, we received a letter from the Management of the Stadium under the stewardship of Mr. Ebou Faye, that we will no longer be allowed to use the venue for the show. Given that the decision is coming barely a few weeks before the event and considering the huge amount of financial and logistical planning that has been made, we are now faced with an insurmountable challenge within a limited timeframe.

“The main reason given was that the show may damage the pitch of the stadium. Whereas the reason may be plausible, ST and his management feel targeted and discriminated against because other artists and groups are being allowed to use the venue for similar purposes.

“A few weeks ago, the Nigerian artist Kiss Daniel had a concert at the stadium, and this week other major concert-like events with thousands of people expected to be in attendance have been lined up to take place at the same venue. In our case, we have even offered to work together with the Stadium management to put in place safeguards that would ensure the safety and protection of the facilities.

“While we continue to engage the Independence Stadium and other government authorities like our line ministries – youths and tourism and culture, to and an amicable solution, the ST management is exploring all options, including legal action, to seek redress.

“The ST brand is a national pride that epitomizes home-grown success. Through music and his foundation, he impacts the lives of several communities and individuals. Therefore, we solicit the support of all and sundry, especially the government which had granted him Cultural Ambassador status recently, to ensure the show goes ahead as planned.”

 

 

SIXTY NPP supporters who live abroad buy their tickets, fly to Gambia for huge launching

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Sixty NPP supporters in the diaspora have started arriving in the country to grace the launching of the party.

NPP will be officially launched on Saturday a little over a year since its formation. President Adama Barrow is leader of the party.

According to national coordinator Fabou Sanneh, supporters in the diaspora numbering 60 have all bought their tickets ready to fly to The Gambia.

“Some arrived today and some will arrive tomorrow,” Sanneh told The Fatu Network on Thursday.

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