By: Dawda Baldeh

Mustapha Ndimballan, a resident of Abuko, has threatened to take legal action against Bundung Maternal Hospital for what he described as “medical negligence” that nearly killed his wife.

Mustapha stated that his wife went to Bundung on 8th of August after feeling some discomfort in her stomach.

“She was kept there the following day, August 9, and she delivered naturally at the hospital Bundung.

“After giving birth, she continued bleeding then an operation was warranted.

“She was operated the same day in Bundung…,” he added.

According to Mustapha, his wife was discharged from Bundung on the 13th of August.

“But after reaching home she was continuously vomiting and was returned to Bundung the same day.

She was again kept in Bundung untill on the 17th of August when she was referred to EFSTH in Banjul,” he explained.

Furthermore, he noted that “at Banjul as her stomach was still swollen, she was on strong antibiotics medications to see if it would subside the stomach.

But after a week in EFSTH, there was no improvement, so an operation was performed at EFSTH on 28th August.

“This is when it was realized a mop was left in her stomach during the first operation at Bundung.”

He revealed that along with the mop 1.2 litres of pus was also drained.

According to him, this discovery came following a second surgery carried out in Banjul when they arrived. He revealed that he had immediately contacted Bundung Maternal Hospital to inform them about the matter, but they refused to acknowledge their fault.

“I wrote to the hospital asking them to compensate us, but they are not taking me seriously,” he lamented. Mustapha added that his wife is left in a life-threatening situation.

The Fatu Network also contacted Mamady Cham, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bundung Maternal Hospital, who refused to comment on the matter. He claimed that he was not aware of the situation, stating that when EFSTH discovered the surgical sponge in Mustapha’s wife’s womb, they should have informed them (Bundung) officially.

The prosecution alleges that Sarr lured the victim, a 14-year-old girl whose identity is protected by law, to his residence under false pretenses. According to the victim’s statement, Sarr then forcibly engaged in non-consensual sexual acts with her. The prosecution further claims that this was not an isolated incident, but part of a pattern of abuse that occurred over an extended period.

Court documents indicate that Sarr faces charges under section 3(1)(a) of the Sexual Offences Act 2013, which pertains to the rape of a minor. If convicted, he could face severe penalties as stipulated in section 4(cc) of the same act.

A key witness in the case, identified as the victim’s sister, reportedly interrupted one of the alleged assaults. Her testimony is expected to play a crucial role in the proceedings.

The case has drawn attention to the ongoing issue of sexual violence against minors in the region. Local advocacy groups have called for stricter enforcement of laws protecting children and harsher penalties for offenders.

As the case moves to the High Court, legal experts anticipate a thorough examination of the evidence. The defendant’s legal representation has not yet issued a public statement regarding the charges.

On this 3rd of October, Women in STEM Gambia celebrates two years of progress and impact. Over the past two years, the organization has worked to create opportunities for young girls and women to excel in STEM fields, both in The Gambia and across Africa.

Throughout this journey, Women in STEM Gambia has reached several key milestones:

• Launched Girls in STEM Chapters in senior schools and universities, providing young women with a platform to explore STEM subjects and develop essential skills.
• Hosted a series of online events where members shared expert knowledge and personal stories, offering inspiration and valuable insights into the STEM fields.
• Organized its annual conference, bringing professionals and young girls together to discuss STEM-related topics, creating connections and offering mentorship.
• Launched the STEMATHON Reality TV Show, allowing students to pitch innovative ideas that solve societal problems, showcasing their creativity and problem-solving abilities.
• Conducted training programs for both members and the public, helping individuals acquire the skills necessary to thrive in STEM fields.
• Held in-person career guidance programs, connecting students from various schools with mentors and resources to support their STEM aspirations.
• Introduced the STEM Leadership Dialogue TV Show, providing a platform for professionals, policymakers, and government officials to discuss strategies for increasing female participation in STEM.
• Expanded its presence into 16 African countries, building a strong network of women dedicated to advancing the role of women and girls in STEM across the continent.

As the organization reflects on these accomplishments, it remains more motivated than ever to support women and girls in the digital space and the broader STEM ecosystem. Women in STEM Gambia continues its mission to break barriers, create opportunities, and inspire the next generation of women in STEM. The future holds even greater promise.

By: Dawda Baldeh

A family in Sare Mawdo, located in the Lower River Region, is anxious about the disappearance of their son, Saidou Suwareh, who embarked on the notably perilous journey to Europe (the back way) several years ago. Isatou Suwareh, Saidou’s elder sister, stated that he had been in regular communication with them since arriving in Italy years ago; however, it has now been over a year since they last heard from him.

Saidou’s unexpected disappearance and the loss of communication with his family have filled their minds with troubling thoughts about whether he is dead or alive.

“Saidou is our hope, and while he was in Italy, he kept in touch with us. At times, he would send us money, and this continued for years, but suddenly he vanished, and we no longer hear from him,” Isatou Suwareh expressed. She mentioned that this situation has led the family to believe he might be dead, a thought that causes his mother to weep day and night.

“My mother has not been herself since we last heard from Saidou. I try to comfort her, but it’s challenging,” she added. Like many others, Saidou traveled to Europe in search of better opportunities, hoping to improve their situation back home.

Isatou recounted that when Saidou was at a camp in Italy a few years ago, he encountered difficulties and was forced to leave, where he eventually met a white woman who offered him shelter. However, this arrangement was only temporary, as Saidou eventually left the woman in search of a better place, Isatou explained.

She conveyed their deep concern for their brother. “We want to hear from him. If he’s in custody or deceased, we want to know,” she lamented.

Isatou noted that Saidou was the eldest son in their family, and they depended on him for many reasons. The family is appealing for assistance from Gambians in the diaspora to provide any information about Saidou, as they are left in a state of despair.

The International Trade Centre (ITC) and UNFPA, in partnership with the Kerewan Area Council, Gambia Investment and Export Promotion Agency (GIEPA) and Gambia Association for Local Government Authorities officially launched a One-Stop Shop Entrepreneurship and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Support Center in Farafenni.

Built by ITC and UNFPA under the United Nations Trust Fund for Human Security and the United Nations Migration Multi-Partner Trust Fund projects, the center aims to address both economic and social challenges. This initiative supports entrepreneurship, cross-border trade and survivors of GBV. The 7 million Dalasi (USD 100,000) funding covered the centre’s construction, furnishing and operationalisation.

The center provides services such as training, business advisory, business registration, packaging and labelling assistance and market linkages. These services aim to enhance the competitiveness of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, subsequently promoting innovation and creating employment opportunities.

Furthermore, the center has a Trade Information and Border Assistance Office to address challenges faced by small-scale cross-border traders in completing border formalities. Crucial trade information and resources are readily available.

In addition, the GBV support center provides health, legal and psycho-social services to survivors in a safe space with a view to promoting prevention as well as justice and healing.

Baboucarr Sallah, ITC Country Representative, shared: “Our vision for this center is to be a hub for nurturing business ideas, addressing GBV issues and fostering economic growth. ITC remains committed to working with partners to advance women and youth economic empowerment for national development.”

The center does not stop at business development. It also offers crucial support for survivors of gender-based violence.

Ndeye Rose Sarr, Country Representative, UNFPA Gambia, said: “This center is more than just an economic initiative. It is also a safe space for survivors of gender-based violence, providing comprehensive support services in collaboration with local authorities and partners.”

In his speech, Karl Frederick Paul, UN Gambia Resident Coordinator, highlighted the center’s broader mission: “The launch of the One-Stop Shop Entrepreneurship and GBV Support Center is a powerful testament to our shared commitment to private sector development, women and youth socio-economic empowerment and improving the resilience of vulnerable communities.”

The facilities of the center include a training room, shared offices for Business Support Organizations (BSOs), consultation rooms for GBV survivors, a meeting room and an innovation hub. These resources are designed to serve the community holistically, combining business services with social support.

Madi Kambai, Director of GIEPA, expounded on the role of the center: “The launch of this center is not just the unveiling of a building, it is the opening of sets of opportunities. The center will support small businesses and provide services to those affected by GBV.”

In conclusion, Permanent Secretary Lamin Dampha, Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, said: “The first One-Stop Shop Entrepreneurship and Gender-Based Violence Support Center in rural Gambia will provide comprehensive economic and social support services.”

This new One-Stop Shop Entrepreneurship and GBV Support Center offers the people of Farafenni and surrounding communities a critical resource to build their businesses while also providing support for vulnerable individuals. Through this initiative, ITC, UNFPA and their partners reaffirm their commitment to driving sustainable development in rural Gambia.

By Dawda Baldeh

Shine Light in Girls’ Education Gambia, an organisation dedicated to empowering girls’ education in The Gambia with support from their German partners donated learning materials to seventy-two (72) girls across four regions in the country on Sunday.

The ceremony took place at the Governor’s Office in Brikama and marked the fifth edition of this annual initiative, which began in 2019 with just six girls.

During the event, Mr. Ebrima Fadera, the president of the organisation, emphasized the importance of academic performance for the beneficiaries.

He warned that girls could lose their sponsorship if they do not achieve satisfactory results, stating, “It is not our responsibility for girls to learn; that is the responsibility of parents.”

He highlighted that while the organisation provides school materials to empower girls, parents must actively support their children’s education to ensure they take full advantage of this opportunity.

Fama Barry raised concerns about the impact of domestic work on girls’ education, noting that many parents often assign their daughters household chores that interfere with their studies.

She stressed the need for good academic results, asserting that the sponsorship would be meaningless without impressive outcomes.

Besenty Gomez, fondly called Humble Besenty, also encouraged the beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity and called on parents to serve as role models for their children.

Mr. Babucarr Fadera, a member of the organisation, echoed similar sentiments, noting that outstanding results from the girls are often celebrated online.

Other speakers, including Oumie Jammeh and Adama Jurju, reiterated the significance of girls’ education and the necessity of utilising the resources provided effectively.

Each beneficiary received two pairs of shoes, bags, exercise books, uniforms, an arithmetic set, and pencils, all aimed at supporting their educational journey.

By Alieu Jallow

Alfred Kamara, on trial for possessing 6.313g of cannabis, a drug banned under section 35(1)(a) of the Drug Control Act of 2014, has been granted bail in the amount of D500,000 with two Gambian sureties.

The trial is taking place before Magistrate Touray at the Kanifing Magistrate Court.

STATEMENT OF OFFENCE

Possession of prohibited drug contrary to section 35(1) (a) of the Drug Control Act, 2014 as amended.

PARTICULARS OF OFFENCE

“That you Alfred Kamara on or about the 31st day of January, 2024 at Kololi Carlifornia Bar in the Kanifing Municipality of the Republic of The Gambia, you had in your possession 6g 313mg of cannabis (Kush) a prohibited drug, you thereby committed an offence.”

The defence in the last seating sought for bail, however, the court declined to grant the request citing it needed time for the outcome of hearing of the next hearing to determine the bail request.

In his today’s ruling, Magistrate Touray granted the accused bail at the sum of D500,000 with two Gambian sureties. The case is adjourned to the 14th of October 2024.

By: Dawda Baldeh

A severe torrential downpour on Friday struck rice fields in Jahaly Parcharr in the Central River Region, submerging and ruining rice that was at the harvesting stage.

This destruction affected numerous farmers in Jahaly Parcharr; however, Mauro was reported as the most severely impacted, leaving him with grave losses, according to eyewitnesses.

In an interview with The Fatu Network, Gibbi Mballow, the National Assembly Member for Lower Fulladu West, described the situation as catastrophic.

Mauro Farms is managed by a private individual who is modernizing rice cultivation in the country’s primary rice-producing area, Jahaly Parcharr.

“The destruction to all the farmers is huge, but Mauro is more severely affected because his rice farms were already ripe, only waiting for harvest. Unfortunately, the flood has submerged all those ripe rice fields, and he has invested heavily in the land development in that area,” Mballow narrated.

The Lower Fulladu West lawmaker called on the National Disaster Management Agency and the Ministry of Agriculture to visit the farms and take the necessary measures to prevent farmers from experiencing such incidents again.

Expressing admiration for Mauro Farms’ vision, Mballow noted that the destruction represents a significant setback for a country already facing high living costs.

“Mauro Farms aims to lessen the reliance on rice imports in the nation. If this rice had been harvested, it would have lowered rice prices in the country, particularly in rural areas,” added Mballow.

Mballow, who witnessed the devastation, expressed his sympathy to Mauro Farms and all other affected farmers for the losses they suffered due to the torrential rain. According to him, the volume of submerged rice is substantial. He advocates for more robust measures to avert such catastrophic damage in the future.

Video footage acquired by this medium displayed the extensive destruction caused by the torrential rain, making it seem as though nothing had ever been cultivated in the region.

By Dawda Baldeh

The Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) entered into a Concession Agreement with The Albayrak Group, a Turkish firm for the expansion of Banjul Port and the development of a new deep seaport in Sanyang.

The Gambia Ports Authority’s communication department has addressed the rumours surrounding the project’s concession with Gibbou M. Saidy, GPA Communication Officer, dismissing the rumours and stating that the partnership was established through a competitive bidding process that included key stakeholders in an interview with The Fatu Network.

Regarding the Banjul port expansion and the new deep seaport in Sanyang, representatives from GPA clarified that the financing and upkeep of both ports throughout the contract period is solely the responsibility of Albayrak.

“Albayrak will be investing the financial resources required for the expansion of Banjul port and the construction of a new deep seaport in Sanyang.

“The Gambian Government is not committing any financial contribution or incurring any costs for this; the financial burden rests entirely on The Concessionaire,” Mr. Saidy elaborated.

He further stated that the partnership was conducted properly and that the bidding process was equitable.

“Last year, Albayrak Group secured the bid against major international competitors.

“This project will bring significant advantages to The Gambia in terms of economic growth.

“Currently, Banjul port is overcrowded, which hampers business operations.

“Vessels are spending extended periods at the port, leading to demurrage fees for importers, which in turn affects the prices of goods and services,” he mentioned.

Moreover, he indicated that expanding the port would help generate additional revenues from the taxes collected as a result of quicker unloading and loading of cargo.

On the advantages this project will provide to The Gambia:

“The GPA is a 20% shareholder in the Special Purpose Vehicle responsible for the Concession, whereas Albayrak will be responsible for the investments on an 80% shareholder position. In addition, the GPA will benefit from a percentage of shares of all revenues generated from the port activities throughout the tenor of the concession.

“This initiative will also create job opportunities for hundreds of Gambians,” he remarked.

GPA emphasized that the contract represents a mutually beneficial revenue-sharing model on a win-win principle.

Additionally, Albayrak will construct facilities that would generate income for the nation.

He asserted that if the port is expanded and a new port is built in Sanyang, the country’s economy will flourish, and the transportation cost of commodity prices will decrease.

“We are enhancing efficiency at the port to expedite shipping, allowing importers to receive their goods more easily and without delay.

“We will also install new digital systems to enhance security and insure the port facilities and operations to ensure the safety of goods and services,” he noted.

In recent years, Banjul port has experienced vessel delays, with many ships bound for the country being redirected to neighbouring ports.

“GPA would like to reassure Gambians that this project is crucial for the country’s development,” he said.

GPA also urged individuals to verify their information before publication to prevent misleading the public.

Albayrak Group, a key player in port operations, is currently working on the Banjul port expansion with the demolition of the acquired properties already completed.

The objective of this partnership is to complete the new port within six years, with a 30-year operational plan established.

The strategic aim is to attract ships that previously diverted to other ports due to Gambia’s outdated facilities.