Tuesday, May 13, 2025
Home Blog Page 50

Entrepreneur and Business Coach Mrs. Saffiatou Colley Advocates for Expanded Girls’ Vocational Training at Youth Empowerment Camp

Seringe Touray
-
0
Entrepreneur and Business Coach Mrs. Saffiatou Colley Advocates for Expanded Girls’ Vocational Training at Youth Empowerment Camp

By Michaella Faith Wright

Mrs. Saffiatou Colley, an esteemed entrepreneur, journalist, and business coach, emphasized the need for greater inclusion of girls in vocational training during her speech at the Youth Empowerment Camp organized by the Give Back Foundation Network. She called for radical changes in perspectives and opportunities to ensure that girls have equal access to vocational education, positioning them to contribute effectively to the workforce.

In a powerful address at the Youth Empowerment Camp hosted by the Give Back Foundation Network, Mrs. Saffiatou Colley highlighted the crucial role of vocational training in creating a more inclusive and diverse workforce. Speaking on the theme of youth empowerment, particularly for girls, she emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for young women to participate fully in vocational education.

Mrs. Colley noted that as the world enters “the next normal,” marked by advanced technology and evolving job markets, it is essential to equip girls with hands-on skills needed in today’s labor market. She expressed the view that vocational training provides girls with practical abilities that can break the barriers of traditional gender roles in professions such as technology, engineering, trades, and the arts.

“Societal attitudes have long imposed limitations on certain fields and professions for girls, but we are seeing changes,” said Mrs. Colley. “Girls are breaking stereotypes and choosing careers in fields that were once off-limits. However, there is still a need for programs designed to specifically support and encourage girls in vocational training.”

Mrs. Colley advocated for initiatives such as scholarships, mentorship, and community programs that target adolescent girls, drawing attention to successful models like Girls Who Code and Women in Technology. She stressed the importance of collaboration between educational institutions, businesses, and community organizations to create internships and apprenticeships that give young girls the practical experience they need to succeed.

“Introducing girls to vocational training not only benefits them but also contributes to a more diverse and dynamic workforce,” she added. “Diverse teams enhance creativity, generate better ideas, and solve problems more effectively.”

As both a journalist and an advocate for women’s empowerment, Mrs. Colley also called for policy changes that address structural challenges, including equal access to education, combating discrimination, and creating policies that promote a healthy work-life balance. She emphasized that these changes are vital for girls to feel valued and to see a clear path for progression in their careers.

In closing, Mrs. Colley commended the Give Back Foundation Network for organizing the Youth Empowerment Camp, which she described as a significant step toward improving the community and empowering the next generation of leaders.

“The time has come for us to harness the enormous potential of our girls, ready to take on leadership and build a world that is free, equal, and fair to all,” she concluded.

TANGO Calls Justice Minister’s Statement on Civil Society Consultation Process Misleading

Seringe Touray
-
0
TANGO Calls Justice Minister’s Statement on Civil Society Consultation Process Misleading

By: Alieu Jallow

The Association of Non-Governmental Organisations in The Gambia (TANGO) describes the Minister of Justice and the Attorney-General’s statement on the involvement of civil society in three consultation processes of the government’s gazetted 2024 draft constitution as misleading.

During the August 28th heated press conference, the Justice Minister asserted that the first phase of the mediation took place between December 2020 and March 2021, with the support of the United Kingdom Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office. Facilitated by H.E. Goodluck E. Jonathan, former President of the Republic of Nigeria, this phase involved intense consultations with political party leaders, civil society organizations, traditional rulers, and faith-based organizations.

In a counter-statement, the Chairperson of TANGO, Mrs. Yadicon Njie Eribo, emphasized that their engagement with the former Nigerian leader, H.E. Goodluck Jonathan, in 2021 was on the failed 2020 draft, where the former Nigerian head of state met with stakeholders, including civil society. She cited that the process was geared towards:

“The assertion that civil society was adequately consulted during the initial phase of mediation for The Gambia’s 2024 draft constitution is fundamentally flawed and misleading. What we recall is that when the 2020 draft failed and H.E. Goodluck Jonathan, former President of Nigeria, came into the country in 2021 to meet with stakeholders, civil society was indeed consulted. But this was geared towards bridging the gap in building consensus for the revival of the constitution-building process. It is also true that when H.E. Ibn Chambers was Chairman of the group of Eminent Persons, chosen to chart a way forward for tabling the Draft Constitution again before the National Assembly, CSOs were consulted but not on the matter of the text of the draft but rather to brief on a new process to revive the 2020 draft constitution. Despite government assertions and official statements suggesting otherwise, substantial evidence indicates that civil society, a crucial stakeholder in the constitutional review process, was not engaged in any meaningful way. As the umbrella association for CSOs, TANGO, Board and Secretariat have not been involved or consulted in the process of drafting the gazetted 2024 draft Constitution.” She outlined.

Madam Njie highlighted that Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in The Gambia play a vital role in promoting democracy, human rights, social justice, among others, noting that they do not only serve as intermediaries between the government and the general public but advocate for transparency, inclusiveness, and accountability.

“Our involvement is essential for ensuring that the constitutional building process is genuinely representative and reflective of the broader populace’s needs and aspirations. CSOs also play a crucial role in enhancing ownership of such important documents that will eventually need the endorsement of the electorate. Reports and feedback from various CSOs reveal a stark contrast to the government’s claims of extensive consultation.”

The TANGO Chairperson stressed that since the collapse of the 2020 draft constitution, several CSOs, either individually or collectively, initiated and engaged in activities geared towards bringing about consensus among stakeholders on the contentious issues raised in that draft.

Similarly, Chair Njie called on the Justice Minister to provide details of the CSOs they engaged during the consultative process, including when, where, and how. She also called on the National Assembly to create a broad-based consultative process in which all stakeholders will have the opportunity to fully participate.

“Now that the draft has been gazetted before being tabled at the National Assembly, we urge the Honourable Members of the Assembly to create a broad-based consultative process in which all stakeholders will have the opportunity to fully participate. TANGO and all CSOs remain ready and willing to provide all necessary support to the constitution-building process, which should be consultative, inclusive, and transparent by all standards.” She affirms.

While TANGO notes with concern the information provided by the Attorney General & Minister of Justice, Honourable Dawda Jallow, during the press conference, they equally welcome the explanatory notes to the gazetted Draft and will diligently study them together with the draft Constitution and come up with its position paper that will be widely shared with all stakeholders.

Enhancing Quality Access to Healthcare: First Lady Launches Oxygen Plant

Seringe Touray
-
0
Enhancing Quality Access to Healthcare: First Lady Launches Oxygen Plant

By: Dawda Baldeh

The Gambian First Lady, Madam Fatoumata Bah Barrow, recently presided over the launch of a new oxygen plant at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital in Banjul. This project, supported by the Africa Infrastructure Relief and Support (AIRS) in collaboration with global healthcare organizations, aims to improve access to oxygen for patients in need. Madam Fatoumata Bah Barrow expressed her gratitude for the installation of the oxygen plant, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery in the country. She highlighted that the plant will provide a more efficient and reliable way to deliver life-saving oxygen to patients at the hospital, ultimately enhancing the level of care provided.

The First Lady credited the partners involved in making the project a reality, including the Society for Critical Care Medicine and Direct Relief Organization. She praised the EFSTH for its dedication to healthcare services and noted that the oxygen plant represents a significant step forward in efforts to enhance healthcare quality in the country.

Professor Pierre Gomez, deputizing for the Minister of Health, highlighted the importance of the oxygen plant in addressing challenges faced by the health sector, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized that the plant will ensure adequate oxygen supply to patients without the need for heavy oxygen cylinders, making healthcare delivery more efficient.

Ambassador Ericka Bennett commended Madam Fatoumata Bah Barrow for her leadership in addressing the healthcare needs of Gambian patients and acknowledged the support of the Fatoumata Bah Barrow Foundation in the health sector. She also thanked all sponsors and partners involved in the project, as well as the Ministry of Health and officials of the EFSTH for their continuous efforts in delivering quality healthcare services to the people of The Gambia.

Yuna VDC Petitions Land Ministry to Reinstate Amadou Bah as Alkalo

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Yuna VDC Petitions Land Ministry to Reinstate Amadou Bah as Alkalo

By Dawda Baldeh

The Village Development Committee (VDC) of Yuna Village has requested the Ministry of Lands, Local Government, and Religious Affairs to reinstate Amadou Bah as village head following the ministry’s recent revocation of his appointment.

Yuna village is experiencing a crisis over the appointment of an alkalo, as two members from the same family have been named, potentially leading to instability within the community.

The VDC denied claims that Amadou Bah is not a resident of Yuna and called on the Ministry of Lands to reinstate him as their alkalo.

There have been concerns raised about a potential threat following the death of Juldeh Bah, as two of his eldest children are competing for his position.

Both Amada Bah and Binta Bah, who have the same parents, received letters of appointment a few months ago. However, the VDC (Village Development Committee) revealed that Amadou was verbally informed of the revocation of his appointment on July 30, before he received an official letter confirming it.

Sulayman Bah, a resident who spoke to The Fatu Network via a telephone interview said: “We prefer Amadou Bah as the alkalo and we want the Ministry of Lands to reinstate him.

According to him, Amadou’s appointment revocation is political.

“Everyone knows that Binta is supporting NPP while Amadou is not and I believe that this is why they revoked his appointment,” Bah claimed.

In a petition seen by this medium, the VDC alleged that the trio supporting Binta’s ‘alkaloya’ in the Bah Kunda family are stained in dubious land dealings.

The petition said Amadou has met all the requirements to lead the village under the local government Act.

They warned that allowing Binta as the village head would lead to division and chaos within the village and called on the Ministry to reinstate Mr Bah.

Gambia Democratic Congress Demands Thorough Explanation into Gambia’s Oil Project

Seringe Touray
-
0
Gambia Democratic Congress Demands Thorough Explanation into Gambia’s Oil Project

Following the interview by the Minister of Energy and Petroleum in relation to the oil saga, the Gambia Democratic Congress has written demanding answers to our concerns.

The interview by the Minister has ended up putting concerned Gambians in a more uncomfortable situation due to a lack of transparency, most especially in the case between African Petroleum and the government.

We applaud the Minister for coming out to speak about it, but the fact remains that we are yet to be convinced by his utterances.

African Petroleum, a company of Frank Timis, was issued a license for offshore blocks A1 and A4 in our waters in 2006. The said company’s license was extended three times, and they failed to honor the agreement with actions until their license expired in 2016.

According to the GDC, the said company has persistently pursued the renewal of its license, which we believe is backed by an interest to trade it with bigger companies for money, as they lack the capacity to act accordingly.

We have seen the legal battle between African Petroleum and the government due to the extension of the license, which ended up in arbitration court upon the expiry of their license.

The company went ahead to sue the government, according to the Minister of Energy and Petroleum, and the government responded and defended its actions, as stated by the Minister. This begs three important questions:

1. If the license issued to African Petroleum was not revoked by the government and it expired after three extensions were given to them, why would the said company take the government to an arbitration court?

2. If the government responded to the court and defended its actions, according to the Minister, then what was the verdict of the court?

3. If the said court ruled in favor of the Gambian government, then why would African Petroleum come to The Gambia in 2020 requesting an out-of-court settlement?

We received a report that the government agreed to the said request and a settlement was reached.

The Minister failed to explain how the settlement was reached.

The other question is, how was BP given a license for the same oil block A1 that was originally issued to African Petroleum, a company of Frank Timis?

Why would BP exit from the A1 Block oil, which holds a capacity of 1 billion barrels of oil, and only justify their quitting from the deal due to what the company called “low carbon energy”?

BP, being a reputable company, didn’t know the facts of our oil prospects before committing itself to a contract with the government?

According to the Minister, he said The Gambia and Senegal share offshore international boundaries, and it is speculation to talk about lucrative oil reserves near the border, as there is no oil in The Gambia.

The Minister failed to do his homework, as it would have been better if he could show Gambians the map of the international offshore borderline between the two countries and indicate the area where Senegal discovered their oil reserves.

I would advise the Minister to call for the attention of Erin Company to shed light on the oil reserves in the area, as they were said to have been connected to the feasibility study.

We hold the strong opinion that the former Petroleum Minister, Fafa Sanyang, should shed light on our oil prospects and the transactions that took place during his time for the sake of accountability.

The question about the lack of accountability and transparency, the accuracy of geological assessments, and the management of our resources in the region will greatly expose possible conflicts of interest, undisclosed agreements, and other activities that may hinder our opportunity to take advantage of the oil prospects in the country.

Finally, transparency is a cornerstone of our development in building a better nation.

Thank you.

Hon. Mamma Kandeh
(GDC Party Leader and Secretary General).

Ballers 4 Life Launches Girls Can Play Initiative

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Ballers 4 Life Launches Girls Can Play Initiative

By Alieu Jallow

On Saturday, August 31st, 2024, Ballers 4 Life and BK West teamed up to launch the Girls Can Play Initiative, a groundbreaking program designed to empower young girls in football and develop them into future leaders in the sport.

The six-month fellowship, running from September 2024 to March 2025, will take place in The Gambia and includes an international sports cultural exchange in partnership with Ballers 4 Life and Sportjugend Frankfurt.

During the launch, Lamin Bojang, a facilitator of the initiative, highlighted that the project is designed to empower young women in football by providing them with comprehensive leadership and German language skills training and addressing sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in sports. The goal is to build a generation of female leaders who can advocate for gender equity and foster safe, inclusive environments within the football community.

“BK West United aims to build a generation of female leaders who can advocate for gender equity and foster safe, inclusive environments within the football community,” Bojang said.

The fellowship will culminate in an all-girls football festival and conference in Frankfurt, Germany, in April 2025. This event will provide participants with the opportunity to showcase their growth and contribute to global discussions on women’s sports.

Key objectives of the initiative include equipping the fellows with essential leadership skills, fostering self-confidence and decision-making abilities, providing basic German language training to enhance communication skills and cultural understanding, and educating the fellows on the prevalence and impact of SGBV in sports. The international sports cultural exchange will further enhance the participants’ understanding of global sports practices and broaden their networks.

Adama Jarju, the founder and CEO of Yakarr Football Academy, emphasized that despite recent progress, discrimination based on gender identity continues to affect female athletes. She urged the girls to be resilient and self-reliant and to pursue their dreams while being mindful of the challenges that women in sports face.

“Despite progress, women still participate in sports less frequently than men, largely due to sociocultural barriers. Issues such as lack of funding, insufficient media coverage, neglect of female players’ health, underrepresentation in leadership roles, gender-based violence, and mental health concerns continue to hinder gender equality in sports” she said.

Sirreh Korteh, a participant in the initiative and a first-division player, expressed her excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to represent her country in Germany. She acknowledged the challenges and discrimination faced by women in football but encouraged her fellow young girls to be resilient and to overcome these challenges.

“I am happy to be part of this team in Germany, and I look forward to representing my country well. Women’s football is full of challenges and discrimination, but you need to be resilient to overcome the challenges,” she expressed.

Binta Jarju shared her excitement about this unique opportunity and expressed her eagerness to learn new things and grow through the program. She applauded the initiative and encouraged her fellow young girls to invest more energy in their training.

“This is a lifetime opportunity for me, which I can’t wait to embrace; therefore, I am calling on my fellow young girls to invest more energy, especially in their training, because football requires more training despite her talent”.

The Girls Can Play Initiative not only provides an opportunity for these young girls to participate in a competitive women’s tournament but also offers cultural exchanges and networking opportunities in Frankfurt, Germany. Through this program, they will enhance their leadership skills and learn best practices in women’s sports, ultimately becoming confident leaders capable of initiating social change in their communities and the sports sector.

Widow of 7 Children Overcomes Fear and Hunger After Receiving Generous Support Following a TFN Publication

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Widow of 7 Children Overcomes Fear and Hunger After Receiving Generous Support Following a TFN Publication

By Dawda Baldeh

Following The Fatu Network’s publication on August 26th, 2024, regarding the deteriorating conditions of Amie Sanneh, a middle-aged widow with seven children in an isolated area in Abuko, we are pleased to report that she is now living in a comfortable place, due to the collaborative intervention from our media and influencer Abdoulie Trawally, also known as Van, who worked closely with Sarjo Sano.

After these publications, a good number of individuals from The Gambia and abroad offered support to the woman and her family.

The medium has collected approximately D55,000 in cash, which was directly donated to us for the window’s benefit.

Here is a breakdown of the amount and how it was spent.

A total of D23,500 was spent on purchasing sofas, D10,000 was used for buying TVs, receivers, and workmanship, and D11,000 was used for purchasing household items such as clothes, bed covers, pillows, washing materials, cooking pots, gas, and shoes. Eleven thousand dalasis in cash was handed to Amie.

Amie further received a direct donation amounting to D22,000, including four 50kg bags of rice.

Meanwhile, Van Trawally and Sarjo Sano have also facilitated the collection of thousands of dalasis which was used to pay rent for one year (D60,000) for a three-bedroom apartment.

As of 31st August 2024, Tik Toker Van handed over a cash amount of D84,000 to the widow as part of the cash donated.

The funds are designed to establish a business for Amie and her family.

Speaking at the handing over of the cash, Van said: “Today I am a happy man because we have managed to help a family in escaping a dangerous situation.

“Going to bed hungry is very difficult and Amie and her children have been facing a lot.

“I thanked our brothers and sisters in the diaspora and home for the immense support.”

While Sarjo who remains speechless at the event shed tears of joy.

“… the feeling is just too much [that] I can’t believe this is happening now,” she said.

The Fatu Network wishes to express its profound gratitude to all those who supported Amie and her family in this difficult time in one way or the other.

Businesswoman Fights to Restart After Falling Victim to ‘Gambian Scam’

Hadram Hydara
-
0
Businesswoman Fights to Restart After Falling Victim to ‘Gambian Scam’

By Alieu Jallow

In a deeply moving demonstration of unyielding strength, Isha Dagen Tambadou, a resilient mother raising six children, three of whom she has adopted, and a former business owner, is currently facing one of the most traumatising challenges of her life. She is grappling to piece her life back together after her business was brought to ruin by a devasting collapse caused by an alleged Gambian scammer.

Once a flourishing entrepreneur at the helm of a successful restaurant and an online furniture business, Dagen Tambadou watched as her aspirations crumbled when her business fell prey to an intricate fraudulent plot. This scam not only left her stunned and financially drained but also struggling to provide for herself and her children.

“Honestly, it’s really not easy having 6 children, with three adopted orphans, who are all looking up to me as their mother. At this moment, I don’t do anything but sit at home, and I have 6 kids to take care of,” Tambadou said.

“It’s really, really hard on me. It’s really hard owning big businesses and now going zero because of a scam that someone did to you. I have serious migraine, and if I tell you, I had to cut my hair bald to reduce the stress on me. Imagine losing your business, your money, trust from customers, having another type of sickness because of the stress and trauma; wallahi it’s not easy,” she added.

Amidst the chaos and deep despair, the tenacious mother cited how the unfortunate incident is taking stall on her physiological being and similarly battling with the police following some of her trusted customers lodging complaints against her seeking their monies due to failure to deliver their demanded goods.

Amid the chaos and profound despair, the resilient mother described how the unfortunate incident has taken a toll on her psychological well-being, and concurrently, she is dealing with the police due to several of her trusted customers filing complaints against her, demanding refunds for undelivered goods.

“This moment is so traumatizing because some customers reported me to the police that they need their money, and God knows, at this moment, it’s hard on me.”

Isha Tambadou claims she handed over a whopping D1.5 million to a Gambian in Turkey for the purchase of goods and an additional D150,00 for the renovation of her new shop complex in anticipation of her new shipment. The 36-year-old entrepreneur, once thriving with a popular cuisine business offering home delivery and an online furniture venture, narrates her downfall in the trade because of its probability. Madam Tambadou states that the ordeal has impacted her not just psychologically but also her children.

“My kids get traumatized because even if they see me lying alone on my bed, they will ask me if it’s my headache again. Wallahi, if I even give them juice or biscuit, they will pray for me to recover my money from my scammer.

“All my children know him and what he did to me. They always ask me when he will pay me my money. The worst is it has made me struggle a lot with my kids because I can’t do anything for them at this moment because of my situation,” she said.

Tambadou is now pursuing legal redress.

Sarjo Baldeh Organizes Four-Day Master Class for Gambian Photographers

Seringe Touray
-
0
Sarjo Baldeh Organizes Four-Day Master Class for Gambian Photographers

By: Michaella Faith Wright

Sarjo Baldeh, CEO and founder of Baldezz Multimedia, has successfully concluded a four-day master class training for photographers in The Gambia. The event aimed to equip participants with essential photography skills, covering everything from camera components to advanced editing techniques. Baldeh, a sports photographer herself, rated the event 9 out of 10, praising the determination and passion displayed by the participants throughout the training.

Speaking to The Fatu Network, Sarjo Baldeh highlighted the success of the program, noting how it exceeded her expectations. “I have seen their level of determination and how seriously they took their projects. On the third day, some participants even chose to stay and work on their assignments instead of going home. Their commitment was inspiring, and I believe this project will go far.”

The master class covered a variety of photography fundamentals, including camera components, composition, studio photography, editing, and lighting. Baldeh emphasized the practical nature of the training, allowing participants to actively engage in real-world photography scenarios, such as beach assignments and environmental photography. On the final day, participants presented their projects based on the theme of the master class.

Despite the overall success, Baldeh noted some initial challenges in selecting participants for the class. “At first, it was difficult to find students who were genuinely interested. I used WhatsApp to post about the class, asking people why they wanted to learn photography. It was a mix of photographers, journalists, and students, which made the selection process more challenging.”

Participants, however, demonstrated their enthusiasm and passion for photography, which Baldeh said was encouraging. “The feedback I received was that they were excited to learn and wanted to continue improving their skills. I’m happy to see how much they’ve grown in just four days.”

The master class was supported by IOM Gambia and Cinema Arena, who provided resources and opportunities for the participants to continue their careers in photography. Baldeh expressed gratitude to the sponsors, noting that photography in The Gambia is still developing and that such initiatives create valuable opportunities for aspiring photographers.

Among the participants was Fatou B. Camara, a sports journalist, who described her experience as transformative. “I’ve always taken photos, but I never considered the importance of detail. This training has taught me how to tell a story through photos without needing to write a single word.”

Another participant, Alieu Camara from Gomindz, praised the training for improving his understanding of photography. “This training has enlightened me on things like lighting, which I didn’t fully grasp before. I’m now more confident in my photography skills and ready to share what I’ve learned with others.”

The master class concluded with participants reflecting on their personal growth and sharing stories of how the training has impacted their lives. Baldeh encouraged aspiring photographers to continue honing their skills, reminding them that with passion and dedication, they can reach their goals.

In her closing remarks, Baldeh said, “Always try to learn new skills, and thank you to all the participants for making this event successful. The world is waiting to see what you have to offer, and I’m ready to embrace anyone willing to learn.”

Former Independent Presidential Candidate Advocates Ministerial Reforms

Seringe Touray
-
0
Former Independent Presidential Candidate Advocates Ministerial Reforms

By: Dawda Baldeh

Former Independent Presidential Candidate Mamadou Bah, also known as Obama Bah, has urged comprehensive ministerial reforms in the nation.

In an interview with The Fatu Network, Bah, who vied for the country’s top leadership position, emphasized the necessity of reforms across all ministries to enhance service quality.

He asserted that the urgency for robust ministerial reform is crucial now more than ever, given the country’s economic challenges and widespread youth unemployment.

He believes that addressing these issues effectively requires a restructuring of government agencies.

Bah highlighted that while having 21 ministries may appear suitable, the focus should be on tackling youth unemployment and instability in various regions through a more streamlined approach.

He suggested that to mitigate the impact of external factors on limited resources, certain ministries should be reformed by merging them with others to eliminate redundancy and save essential resources.

The suggested ministries for consolidation are as follows:

Ministry of Defense: This ministry should be placed directly under the Office of the President, managed by a Permanent Secretary, to ensure the highest level of authority and oversight in defense matters.

Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy & Ministry of Information:

These ministries, with overlapping functions, could be merged to concentrate on communications, digital transformation, and information dissemination.

Ministry of Agriculture & Ministry of Fisheries and Water Resources:

Due to the close link between agriculture and fisheries, these ministries could be combined to create a more cohesive strategy for managing natural resources and ensuring food security.

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education & Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology:

Education should be streamlined under a single Ministry of Education, covering all levels from basic to higher education, to save resources and adopt a more integrated approach to education policy.

Ministry of Sports: This ministry should focus solely on the holistic development of sports, from grassroots to national levels, to engage young people in diverse sporting activities and prepare them for global events like the Olympics.

Ministry of Youth, Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment: This ministry should encompass youth affairs, trade, industry, regional integration, and employment to address youth unemployment and economic development comprehensively.

Ministry of Public Service: This ministry, dealing with policies and public service, should also handle National Assembly matters due to its central role in legislative functions.

Bah strongly believes that by removing and consolidating these ministries, significant resources could be saved and redirected toward youth development projects, such as establishing regional youth farms nationwide.

He explained, “With qualified Permanent Secretaries in each consolidated ministry, daily government operations will not be disrupted, and the funds saved from ministerial salaries can be utilized to create job opportunities for the youth.”

He stressed that this reform is not just about reducing the number of ministries but about ensuring efficient, effective government operations that serve the best interests of the Gambian people.

“It is about establishing a government that is more accountable, closer to the people, and better equipped to meet the challenges of the modern world. Ultimately, it is about constructing a Gambia that is fair, sustainable, and prosperous for all,” he concluded.

IOM Awards Grants to 25 Young Gambian Entrepreneurs to Address Irregular Migration through Youth Economic Empowerment

Seringe Touray
-
0
IOM Awards Grants to 25 Young Gambian Entrepreneurs to Address Irregular Migration through Youth Economic Empowerment

By: Alieu Jallow

The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, Regional Integration and Employment (MOTIE) and The Gambia National Youth Council (NYC), on August 16th, 2024, officially handed over grants to 25 young entrepreneurs under the empowerment component of the CinemArena project.

The CinemArena project is a “mobile cinema” initiative funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and implemented by IOM Italy in many Western and Northern African countries, including The Gambia. The project provides a series of outdoor events organized in rural and urban areas, with projections of films, documentaries, and testimonies. The aim is to ensure outreach and to carry out educational and information campaigns on the risks of irregular migration and its alternatives in the most remote and disadvantaged areas.

Emmanuel Murwisi, IOM The Gambia Chief of Mission, outlined how the CinemArena project aligns with IOM’s strategic vision, as well as The Gambia Government’s Green Recovery-Focused National Development Plan (NDP 2023-2027) and the United Nations The Gambia Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2024-2028. The Chief of Mission elaborated on how the project will fulfill their efforts to address irregular migration, which remains a significant challenge. Mr. Murwisi also expressed his belief that the recipients will make the best use of the grants to inspire young people, create employment opportunities, and contribute to mitigating irregular migration.

“Today, we are witnessing an important occasion for many reasons, but what is really fulfilling for us and our government counterparts is addressing one of our most unfortunate issues – irregular migration, which is costing the country many of its young people – through youth economic empowerment. We are certain that you will all use these grants to boost your businesses, inspire your fellow young people, create employment opportunities, and contribute to addressing irregular migration,” he added.

On his part, Basiru Secka, Principal Labour Economist, MOTIE, underscored the significance of the project, noting that it will help address the plight of young people and the challenges hindering their development. “This round of the CinemArena project is very unique, as it not only raises awareness of the dangers of irregular migration but also seeks to address the menace through the economic empowerment of young people.”

Kaddijatou Badjie, a beneficiary, perceives the grant as more than financial assistance and expressed gratitude to IOM for their confidence in their ability to innovate and contribute to national development through scaling up businesses and creating jobs.

“With the support, we have an opportunity to expand our businesses and make a positive impact by contributing to the socio-economic advancement of our communities. We’re particularly grateful for the focus on empowering young people and women – two important constituents of our society,” she added.

These 25 grant beneficiaries were selected out of over 450 applicants, of which thirteen (13) out of the twenty-five (25) are women-owned businesses, ranging from startups to existing initiatives. These businesses span various sectors, including agribusiness, bakery, environmental protection, food processing, handicraft, horticulture, piggery, tailoring, and waste management, using local materials while contributing to addressing climate change.

The current project, which has two main components – an informative component and an empowerment component – aims to ensure a broad dissemination of educational messages; engage and empower local communities, returning migrants, potential migrants, and diaspora through their active involvement and inclusion in capacity building and training initiatives; and actively involve media as change agents to disseminate accurate information on the risks of irregular migration and the socio-economic opportunities available.

Officials believe that supporting these youth-owned startups and existing enterprises will help address some of the drivers of irregular migration in The Gambia, including the lack of employment opportunities and low income.

McKinstry Previews Tough Encounters Against Tunisia and Comoros

Seringe Touray
-
0
McKinstry Previews Tough Encounters Against Tunisia and Comoros

By: Zackline Colley

The Gambia’s national football team head coach, Jonathan McKinstry, has highlighted the challenges his side faces in their upcoming fixtures against Tunisia and Comoros, emphasizing the different tactical approaches required for each match.

Speaking ahead of the crucial matches, McKinstry described the contrasting styles of the two opponents, noting that each game would demand specific strategies. “They’re two very different games,” McKinstry said. “Comoros are a team that is extremely hard-working. They’re extremely together. They are reasonably direct as a team. They don’t play too much tippy-tappy football. They like to go forward quite quickly.”

McKinstry stressed the importance of neutralizing Comoros’ direct style of play by disrupting their passing game. “If players are unable to play those direct passes, then that threat of runs in behind is somewhat limited,” he noted. “For us, it’s about getting our important players on the ball as often as possible in the best positions on the field. And I think if we do that, we’ll be able to cause Comoros a lot of problems.”

Turning his attention to Tunisia, McKinstry acknowledged the North African side’s experience and potential strategic shift under their new coach. “Tunisia has a very experienced squad, although under a new coach. So obviously, their new coach comes in. These are his first games. And so you will see maybe a strategic change from Tunisia.”

The coach underscored the need for his team to adapt quickly and exploit their strengths, particularly in speed and creativity, while being cautious of Tunisia’s ability to capitalize on space. “We know that Tunisia is a side that doesn’t feel a lot of pressure in games. So we need to make sure that we use our strengths, our speed, our guile, our creativity to cause them problems,” McKinstry explained. “But at the same time, understanding that if we give them too much space, they’ve got players who would punish us in those situations.”

McKinstry also highlighted the importance of squad rotation, given the differing demands of the two matches. He pointed to the inclusion of new players like Lamin Saidy, praising the young goalkeeper’s confidence and skill with the ball. “He’s a very confident goalkeeper. He’s very comfortable with his feet as well. He wants to play; he wants to pass the ball,” McKinstry said of Saidy. “Someone who has a really high save ratio. So someone, I think, at 23 deserves this opportunity to come in and learn from the likes of Ibrahima and Sheikh Sibi, but also to compete for a place on the team.”

As The Gambia prepares for these vital fixtures, McKinstry’s emphasis on tactical flexibility and the integration of new talent will be key to the Scorpions’ success. The matches against Tunisia and Comoros are expected to be intense, with both sides posing unique challenges that the Scorpions will need to navigate carefully.

Justice Minister Debunks Allegations of Lack of Consultation on the 2024 Draft Constitution

Seringe Touray
-
0
Justice Minister Debunks Allegations of Lack of Consultation on the 2024 Draft Constitution

By Mouhamadou MT Niang
Justice Minister Debunks Allegations of Lack of Consultation on the 2024 Draft Constitution

NHRC Holds Daylong Stakeholder Forum on Promoting Rights of Elderly Persons

Seringe Touray
-
0
NHRC Holds Daylong Stakeholder Forum on Promoting Rights of Elderly Persons

By Mama A. Touray

The National Human Rights Commission today held a daylong stakeholder forum on promoting the rights of elderly persons at the Senegambia Beach Hotel.
This stakeholder forum, anchored on the theme “Aging in Dignity in The Gambia: Promoting the Human Rights of the Elderly in The Gambia,” aims to create a platform to discuss issues affecting the enjoyment of human rights by older persons in the country while mapping out ways in which the State and other stakeholders can address challenges and ensure older persons lead dignified, healthy, and secure lives as equal members of society.

The Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Welfare, Fatou Kinteh, highlighted the gap in the legal framework dealing with older persons: “The Gambia currently lacks specific legislation or a comprehensive policy dedicated to the protection and promotion of the rights of older persons. While the existing legal instruments provide a general framework, they do not fully address the specific needs and challenges of our elderly population.”

Kinteh added that in recognition of this gap, her Ministry is actively working to strengthen the legal and policy framework for the protection of older persons. She continued: “We are committed to developing specific legislation and policies that will provide robust protections for our elderly population, ensuring that they can live with dignity, security, and respect.”

The Vice Chair of the National Human Rights Commission stated that the lack of adequate social protection measures means that many older persons face financial challenges, as they are unable to work to provide for themselves, which, she said, leaves them to beg in the streets, thereby exposing them to numerous dangers.

She added, “In January 2016, the African Union adopted the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights on the Rights of Older Persons in Africa to provide greater recognition and protection of the human rights of older persons in Africa. And on 25th June 2024, the National Assembly ratified the Protocol, imposing upon the State an obligation to guarantee and safeguard the rights of older persons in the country.”

The Vice Chair acknowledged the role played by the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Welfare towards The Gambia’s ratification of the Protocol while calling on the Government to expedite the domestication of the Protocol.

McKinstry Unveils 24-Man Squad for AFCON 2025 Qualifiers Against Tunisia, Comoros

Hadram Hydara
-
0
McKinstry Unveils 24-Man Squad for AFCON 2025 Qualifiers Against Tunisia, Comoros

By Zackline Colley

Coach Johnathan McKinstry has announced a 24-man squad as The Gambia prepares to continue their quest for a spot in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, set to take place in Morocco.

The team will face tough qualifying matches against Tunisia and Comoros.

The squad features a mix of new talent and returning players. New faces include goalkeeper Lamin Saidy, a first-division player for Real de Banjul, and Momodou Njie, who plays professional football in Norway. Joseph Ceesay and Abdoulie Ceesay are also among the fresh additions. Additionally, the team will see the return of experienced players like Ali Sowe, Ebrima Darboe, Ibou Touray, Hamza Barry, and James Gomez, who were absent in previous games due to various reasons.

McKinstry expressed his satisfaction with the current state of Gambian football, noting that the increasing number of players performing well at club level has made it more challenging to select the national squad. “One of the nice things for Gambian football at the moment is it’s becoming progressively more difficult to name the squad, because we’ve got a lot of guys out there playing at a good level of the game,” McKinstry said during the squad announcement.

He acknowledged the disappointment of some players who were not included in the squad, citing the intense competition for places. “If you’ve got competition for your place, you know you’ve got to be playing well week in, week out, otherwise you’re going to be out.”

Reflecting on the team’s recent performance, particularly in the June qualifiers, McKinstry highlighted the frustration of not converting dominance in play into more goals, especially in the match against Gabon. “Our biggest frustration in the Gabon game especially was that we weren’t able to convert that dominance in play into more goals,” he stated.

McKinstry emphasized that the team’s strategy remains focused on aggressive and positive football. He assured fans that the squad’s quality would be higher this time, with the return of key players who were previously sidelined. “We want to go out, we want to attack, and we want to do that for as often as we can at as high-quality level as we can in the games.”

As The Gambia gears up for the crucial qualifiers, McKinstry’s squad is set to bring both experience and fresh energy to the pitch, with the ultimate goal of securing a place in AFCON 2025.

Health Workers Speak on the Dilemma of Treating Kush Patients

Seringe Touray
-
0
Health Workers Speak on the Dilemma of Treating Kush Patients

By: Dawda Baldeh

Two female health workers at a private hospital, who have treated critical Kush patients, have spoken about the terrifying dilemmas they encountered.

Calista C. Olisakwue, alias C.C.O, a Nigerian national, and Tuti Kujabi, a Gambian, both worked at Elemast Specialist Hospital, where they treated critical patients who allegedly smoked the deadly substance. They urge young people to desist from taking any substance that poses a danger to their lives.

Narrating their untold experience to The Fatu Network, these young nurses, who are praised by many for their dedication to assisting patients, said this was their first experience handling such violent cases.

Calista had earlier benefited from training on managing Kush patients, organized by ActionAid, which gave her a glimpse into how they react and the treatment process. “I was wondering why someone would take these harmful drugs that can kill them,” Calista said.

Her first experience with a Kush patient was on June 22nd, during her night shift, a day when she treated two critical patients who narrowly escaped death after taking the substance. “I couldn’t believe Kush was actually real until that day… When I arrived at work, my colleague informed me about a Kush patient she treated during the day and showed me the disturbing videos,” Calista recounted.

She narrated: “At night, a patient was rushed into the hospital while the escort was holding the patient’s tongue so tightly. I asked what happened, but they didn’t want to tell me,” she recalled, adding that the patient’s reaction reminded her of Kush. “I rushed to conduct the tests before administering any medication.”

She revealed that due to the nature of the patient’s condition, she asked the escort to continue holding the tongue while she administered medications. “I gave him 5% dextrose 500mls (4 bottles), 1000mg Hydrocortisone (1 vial), 4 ampules of Vitamin B Complex, diluted in 4000mls, and he started responding, but the tongue was still out,” she explained.

She expressed joy after the patient, who was near death, started speaking. “I was so excited,” she said. Calista also revealed that she had another patient a few minutes after discharging the previous one.

“Immediately after I discharged the patient, another one was rushed in. His tongue wasn’t out, but he was almost unconscious. I asked him what happened, but he didn’t want to tell me. I informed him that I wouldn’t call the police but needed to understand the situation to support him,” she narrated.

According to her, this was the second patient she treated that night. “After he regained consciousness, I spent time talking to him in a very polite way, helping him understand that there is no benefit in taking such drugs. He promised that it was his first and last time taking any drug,” the nurse recounted her conversation with the patient.

Tuti Kujabi, the first nurse at the hospital to attend to a Kush patient, described her first experience as terrifying. “When the patient came in with his tongue out, I was shouting… I told them we don’t treat Kush here, go to another hospital, but I pitied the patient and informed my boss about the incident.

“I asked the escort to remove the object they were using to hold the tongue, but they were scared. They continued holding the tongue while I administered medications until the boy started responding,” she explained. She later counseled her patient and encouraged him to stop consuming such drugs, and described her experience as terrifying and urge young people in general to stop taking any drugs.

She questioned why people would use their hard-earned money to buy drugs that could end their lives. “You have to desist from anything that will ruin your life. Don’t even attempt it,” she concluded.

National People’s Party (NPP) Strategic Position Ahead of the 2026 Presidential Elections

Hadram Hydara
-
0
National People’s Party (NPP) Strategic Position Ahead of the 2026 Presidential Elections

OPINION

By Bakary J. Janneh

As the political atmosphere in The Gambia evolves, the National People’s Party (NPP), under the leadership of His Excellency President Adama Barrow, is emerging as a formidable contender in the upcoming 2026 presidential pools. The NPP’s strategic initiatives and the current state of opposition parties suggest a potentially favorable outcome for President Barrow and his party at the 2026 pools.

The NPP has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to broadening its support base, particularly in regions such as NBR, LRR and the West Coast Region. This strategic expansion is not just about increasing numbers but also about deeply engaging with communities to understand and address their specific concerns. Party members including influential personalities have been actively involved in outreach programs, town hall meetings, and community development projects, all of which have helped to bolster the party’s image as one that is not only focused on governance but also on grassroots engagement.

This proactive approach has enabled the NPP to penetrate areas previously dominated by opposition parties, thus creating a more balanced political playing field.

In contrast, some opposition parties appear to be struggling with internal conflicts and leadership tussles, which have significantly weakened their ability to present a united front against the National People’s Party. These parties are often seen as embroiled in factional disputes over minor leadership positions, rather than focusing on broader national issues or formulating a compelling alternative vision for the country.

The lack of cohesion within the opposition is a stark contrast to the disciplined and united front presented by the NPP. This disunity not only hampers their ability to campaign effectively but also undermines public confidence in their capacity to govern should they come to power.

While opposition parties are distracted by internal strife, the NPP is diligently preparing for the 2026 elections. The party is working on a comprehensive campaign strategy that aims to consolidate its current gains while also reaching out to undecided voters and those traditionally aligned with the opposition such as the Kiangs and some areas previously dominated by opposition. This forward-thinking approach includes both strengthening party structures and enhancing voter engagement through various platforms, including social media, public forums, and community engagements.

Several personalities like Momodou Sabally, Hon Dou Sanno, Aja Maimuna Baldeh etc are among the generals of NPP spear heading the community engagements via various means such as sport.

The NPP’s preparation is not just limited to political campaigning. There are efforts underway to standardize party operations, improve organizational efficiency, and ensure that all members are aligned with the party’s objectives and vision for the future. This meticulous preparation is likely to give the NPP a significant advantage as the election draws closer.

The party’s proactive efforts to expand its support base, coupled with the disarray within opposition ranks, provide a clear path for President Adama Barrow to potentially secure third term in office.

However, with more than a year to go before the election, there remains room for political maneuvers, alliances, and strategies that could alter the current trajectory. For now, the NPP appears well-positioned to maintain its lead in the race to the State House.

 

The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect The Fatu Network’s editorial stance.

‘They are not Bad People’: Nurse Advocates Care for Kush Addicts

Seringe Touray
-
0
‘They are not Bad People’: Nurse Advocates Care for Kush Addicts

By: Dawda Baldeh

As the country battles to curb the abuse of Kush, which is wreaking havoc, Tuti Kujabi, a young Gambian female nurse who has treated ‘complicated’ Kush cases at Elemast Specialist Hospital, has advocated care for addicts, describing them as victims of influence.

Speaking exclusively to The Fatu Network, the nurse, who hails from Brufut, said the fight against Kush requires a holistic approach. She especifically called on hospitals that are not treating Kush or are referring patients to other hospitals without providing any urgent support to change their approach.

This medium was informed that she is the first nurse to attend to a Kush patient at Elemast Specialist Hospital and was able to manage the case until the person recovered.

Initially, she said, “I told the escorts that we don’t treat Kush patients and asked them to visit another hospital when I saw his condition.” However, she quickly changed her mind and attended to the patient.

“I am calling on health workers to help such patients whenever they come to your facilities,” she said. “They are our brothers, and they need our support. You don’t know when your family member will be in such a situation.”

She added that health personnel should counsel such patients to help them desist from drugs. “When you cure the person, don’t stop there. Talk to the individual, let him or her understand the impact of the drugs, and give them hope,” she noted.

“We should all work together and help those addicted to dangerous drugs so they can desist from them. We don’t have to distance ourselves from them; let’s show them love and care. As a nurse, whenever I help save the life of any patient, I feel very excited. Maybe that person will benefit me in one way or another.”

She added, “If you neglect such patients until they die, the lesson will never be learned. We should advise them because some think this is the way of life. If we apply that approach in every health sector, we can eradicate Kush and save our youths,” she emphasized.

The young nurse described health workers as parents, uncles, aunts, brothers, and sisters to their patients. “Apart from God, we (nurses) are the saviors of the patients. It’s our duty to put the people in the right place. We should always put humanity first. We should not see drug addicts as bad people. When someone is in their teenage years, they might think they are above the world. They can make wrong decisions that they might regret as they grow older. So, we should help them,” she added.

Ms. Kujabi argued that when people keep talking to drug addicts in a polite manner, they will change. “We can pass the message without being abusive. Some are just influenced by their peers.” She also advises the public to spread the message in a polite manner so that it will be better received.

Ms. Kujabi revealed that she constantly engages her siblings on how they can live life without using drugs. “Let us not be lazy in talking to our young ones,” she concluded.

Retired Lt. Colonel Samsudeen Sarr Criticizes Amendments in the 2024 Draft Constitution

Seringe Touray
-
0
Retired Lt. Colonel Samsudeen Sarr Criticizes Amendments in the 2024 Draft Constitution

By: Zackline Colley

Retired Lt. Colonel Samsudeen Sarr, a former commander of the Gambian National Army, has voiced strong objections to the executive’s decision to fine-tune the 2020 draft constitution. In an interview with Peter Gomez on the Coffee Time show, Sarr described the 2020 draft as a “largely plagiarized charter from Kenya,” arguing that it should have been discarded entirely rather than revised.

One of Sarr’s primary concerns centers on the alterations made to the presidential succession provisions. The 2020 draft stipulated that in the event of the President’s death or a vacancy in the presidency during the term, the Vice President, Speaker of the National Assembly, or Chief Justice would temporarily assume office, with elections to be held within 90 days. However, the new 2024 draft modifies this provision, stating in sections 96 and 103 that the Vice President, Speaker of the National Assembly, Chief Justice, or the most senior Gambian judge—if the Chief Justice is not Gambian—will serve out the remainder of the term.

Sarr questioned the rationale behind this change, asserting, “While the rationale for ensuring continuity of the President’s policies is understandable, this approach seems counterintuitive.” He pointed out the fundamental difference between the Gambian context and the United States, where the Vice President is elected alongside the President and thus serves as a legitimate successor.

“In our context,” Sarr explained, “an appointed Vice President has not been elected by the people and should not automatically govern in place of the President.” He suggested two alternatives: either require presidential candidates to select their running mates before the election, allowing them to be elected together, or retain the 2020 draft provision that mandates fresh elections within 90 days in the event of a vacancy.

Sarr also expressed concerns about the limitation of free education to only the basic level in the new draft. He argued that free education should be extended to cover both basic and secondary levels, noting, “This change will greatly enhance the nation’s educational standards, especially during a time when many average families struggle to afford school fees, particularly in polygamous or extended households.”

Sarr’s comments highlight significant points for reconsideration in the draft constitution, urging the executive to prioritize fairness to the citizens.

Attorney General Clears the Air on Constitutional Consultations

Seringe Touray
-
0
Attorney General Clears the Air on Constitutional Consultations

By: Zackline Colley

Attorney General and Minister of Justice Dawda A. Jallow has refuted claims suggesting a lack of consultations leading to the adjustments made by the Cabinet on the draft constitution. Speaking on “Coffee Time with Peter Gomez,” Jallow stressed that since the constitution’s rejection in September 2020, there have been numerous consultations and mediation efforts involving both local and international actors.

Jallow explained that the Ministry of Justice facilitated a series of dialogues, inviting independent, neutral non-Gambians to mediate the process. “We realized very soon after the constitution collapsed in 2020 that it collapsed because of political differences between the politicians,” Jallow said. “We learned our lessons that we focused so much on the content, on developing the content of the document. And we tend not to have given so much attention to the process of bringing that document to life.”

Highlighting the involvement of civil society and international experts, Jallow noted that the consultations were supported by International IDEA, an NGO with expertise in constitutional development. “We allowed the politicians and, in some cases, the civil society who participated in those discussions to highlight their areas of concern,” he stated. He emphasized that the Ministry of Justice took a back seat in these discussions to ensure an unbiased process, adding, “Government is a key stakeholder in that process, but I decided to advise that the government takes a back seat.”

Addressing the widespread consultations, Jallow pointed to the famous Abuja convergence, where nearly all political party leaders met to discuss the draft constitution. “We took all the heads of political parties… to Abuja… [and] they’ve agreed on almost all the issues that separated them except one, which is the famous retrospective application of the time limit,” Jallow explained. He mentioned that the majority of issues were resolved during this final consultation.

Jallow concluded by dismissing claims that the Cabinet’s changes were made without consultation, reiterating that the process was thorough and inclusive. “To say that there were no consultations, that the government just woke up and brought changes—I think that’s not accurate,” he said. He acknowledged that while the Cabinet did go beyond the recommendations of the consultations, the adjustments were made after careful consideration of all submitted reports. “The first thing that I need to clear is to say that this happened out of the blue… there was a series of rounds of consultations.”

Jallow’s remarks come amid ongoing debates on the future of the draft constitution, with political consensus still a key factor in its potential passage. “Without a political consensus, this document will never go through,” he warned, underscoring the need for continued dialogue and agreement among all stakeholders.

1...495051...762Page 50 of 762

2025 © The Fatu Network - Site by DigiTech Solutions

Reset password

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

Get started with your account

to save your favourite homes and more

Sign up with email

Get started with your account

to save your favourite homes and more

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