Tuesday, July 1, 2025
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GID Faces Challenge to Curb Irregular Migration

By: Alieu Jallow

Chief Superintendent Modou Lamin Sanyang, speaking on behalf of Deputy Director General of the Gambia Immigration Department, Madam Hulay Jallow, underscored the challenges faced by the Gambia Immigration Department in trying to curb irregular migration. This comes following the discovery of several sea routes through the Canary Islands of the Kingdom of Spain.

Recently, the trend has shifted from the Sahara desert through Niger, Mali to Libya or Tunisia, to the influx of wooden boats taking off from the Gambia’s coastlines of Kartong, Tanji, Gunjur, and Bakau, heading towards the Canary Islands and then to Spain. This shift has claimed and continues to claim lives of members of society, placing a significant burden on immigration in monitoring people’s movement.

Chief Superintendent Modou Lamin Sanyang called for collaboration to enhance national security, emphasizing the importance of collective partnership to protect Gambian borders and ensure the safety and well-being of citizens and non-citizens.

“GID is challenged with social menaces such as irregular migration, which continuously claims the lives of our country’s citizens. This is in addition to the statutory mandate given to GID to monitor and control the movement of people within our country.”

Chief Superintendent Sanyang expressed assurance of their firm commitment to the shared vision with partners to enhance accountability and transparency within the security sector in migration, border management, and the movement of people.

“We are committed to a security framework that not only safeguards our citizens but does so with utmost respect for human rights and gender equality.”

According to the latest report from the Spanish interior minister, the archipelago received 23,537 migrants between January 1st to October 15th, almost 80% more than over the same period last year. During the first two weeks of October, 8,561 migrants from sub-Saharan Africa arrived in Spain, according to Spanish media, marking the highest numbers since a previous migration crisis in 2006.

The International Organization for Migration has reported over 630 people who lost their lives, including sixteen children among the deaths.

In light of this, Chief Superintendent Sanyang emphasizes that GID aims to create a robust system that not only secures borders effectively but also addresses challenges posed by irregular migration and smuggling activities.

Farato: Business owners bemoan police demolition of illegal encroachments 

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By: Zackline Colley

Facing the harsh reality of illegal encroachment, business owners impacted by the authorized demolition of their premises in Farato, along the Brikama highway opened up about their struggles.

From small enterprises to established shops, these victims shared poignant stories of financial loss, emotional strain, and the uncertainty that now loomed over their livelihoods.

Amadou Jallow, who operates a local “Tangana shop” tells The Fatu Network that the partially demolished part of his shop has impacted his business.

“I have lost most of my customers to the Tangana shop behind me. If customers come and it’s crowdy with nowhere to sit, they become impatient and move to the next shop which is not affected because he is not situated on the highway unlike me.

“I used to have a full house every morning before the demolition but now business is slow [and [I] am even having thoughts of moving out to a better environment cause [sic] the sun disturbs both me and my customers who complain of how uncomfortable it is to enjoy their meals in my shop,” Jallow told The Fatu Network.

Unlike Amadou Jallow, a woman in her mid-thirties was left hopeless after her small canteen where she sells fast food was completely demolished during the illegal encroachment operation. Astou Faye told The Fatu Network how her canteen located at the Farato Bojang Kunda has been her only source of income.

“When I was told about the demolishment going on, I did not think I was going to be affected but my hopes shattered when I was home preparing the food to sell when one of my customers came to tell me the devastating news that my canteen was marked to be demolished.

“I am not worried because I have God. I am now looking for a suitable place to resume my business but, in the meantime, things are really hard on me. I am only dependent on my savings for now,” Faye said.

Aside from those affected, people like Moses Jarju believe the illegal encroachment operation was long overdue. Mr. Jarju pointed out that some illegal encroachment along the highway causes most of the traffic jams along the Brikama highway.

He told The Fatu Network that some accidents have happened in the past involving vehicles hitting some of the shops situated just a few steps from the highway which he described as very dangerous.

“This operation is long overdue; people live where their land ends and come up to the highway to build their shops which could be very risky. Most of these establishments tend to increase the rate of traffic jams cause [sic] they create parking spaces where vehicles are meant to move.

I accept that it has caused a lot of havoc for the victims [but] it is for the well-being of them all. Last year, we had serval accidents involving some of these canteens situated right on the main road, so it is risky. I commend the national road authority and the police for a job well done,” Jarju said.

As the victims of the demolition narrated their challenges, a collective plea for justice emerged, emphasizing the need for authorities to address the profound impact of illegal encroachment on the local business community.

Interview with El Hadji Omar Massaly, Founding President of Éditions ELMA (Senegal)

El Hadji Omar Massaly, the 34-year-old, founding president of Editions ELMA, shares the aspirations of his pan-African publishing house. A multifaceted individual, he serves as an author, publisher, journalist collaborating with Jeune Afrique, and CEO of Editions ELMA, a publishing house renowned for producing significant titles. The Fatu Network caught up with this pan-African publisher during the Gambia African Book Fair.

You took part in the first edition of the Gambia African Book Fair. How do you rate this event?

EL Hadji Omar Massaly: Participating in the inaugural Gambia African Book Fair was truly enriching. I extend my gratitude to the Fair’s organizer, Fatou Camara Junior, a dedicated pan-Africanist committed to propelling her nation’s youth forward. This event provided a platform for me to discover exceptionally talented young authors whose works deserve recognition. ELMA, our pan-African publishing house, is keen on publishing and supporting some of these emerging talents.

It is crucial for the government to endorse and back this fair, serving as a showcase for both African and Gambian literature. Such initiatives require support to empower authors to reach audiences across Africa and beyond. I, along with a delegation, actively participated because I believe in the significance of inclusive cultural initiatives involving countries within the sub-region.

On the sidelines of the Fair, you made official the choice of the representative of your pan-African publishing house, Fatou Camara, in Gambia. Can you tell us a bit about your publishing house?

EL Hadji Omar Massaly: Fatou Camara’s selection was intentional; her dedicated work reflects a profound commitment to her country and Africa. Her fervor for literature and culture aligns with mine, fostering a shared vision for the continent. Together, we aim to synergize our efforts, establishing a professional cross-border publishing house that ensures authors receive the sought-after quality of production recognized internationally.

ELMA emerged at a critical juncture when Africa grapples with economic, social, and environmental challenges, hindering the development of a robust book industry. Despite being a source of employment, the book industry in Africa has yet to be fully recognized for its potential contribution to economic development, contrasting with some Western counterparts.

Historically, after gaining independence, various publishing houses were established to promote African literature, serving as a means to express our diverse cultures. Regrettably, over subsequent decades, these publishing houses encountered setbacks. However, it’s imperative for the book market to solidify its presence as a significant cultural industry in Africa.

There is an urgent need for Africa, which has demonstrated dynamism and innovation in various sectors in recent years, to focus on developing a book industry capable of contributing to its economic structural transformation.

ELMA, a pan-African publishing house employing an innovative strategy and a resilient approach, aims to play a central role in facilitating the creation of a genuine book economy. This initiative is designed to provide all participants—authors, publishers, printers, distributors, and retailers—with the opportunity to sustain themselves through their craft.

To achieve this goal, ELMA has established six collections: Thinking about Africa, Development Economy, Literature, School Education, African Entrepreneurs, and Africans in the Century. The objectives of each collection are outlined in our catalogues, accessible through our representatives. In essence, these collections aim to empower intellectuals, authors, cultural figures, and journalists to contribute to changing the narrative about Africa. In the words of economist Felwine Sarr, it involves discovering the vast spaces of possibility in African reality and making them fruitful.

Why did you choose The Gambia when it’s an English-speaking country?

EL Hadji Omar Massaly: As a pan-African publishing house, we operate across borders, fostering a connection among authors from both English-speaking and French-speaking countries. Our aim is to transcend language barriers, recognizing that the themes explored by our authors hold relevance for all nations. To facilitate this cross-cultural exchange, we have established a translation department dedicated to translating books by select authors. Additionally, manuscripts written in English undergo evaluation by a dedicated reading committee exclusively handling works in that language.

Do you have representatives in other African countries?

EL Hadji Omar Massaly: Certainly, we currently have representatives in countries including Gabon, Central Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, and Guinea Conakry. Our ongoing efforts involve expanding our presence into additional countries to further extend our reach and impact.

What are the objectives of Éditions ELMA?

EL Hadji Omar Massaly: ELMA’s goals include transforming the book sector into a thriving cultural industry, a challenge critical for Africa’s development, as knowledge is fundamental. Taking France as a benchmark, where publishers are projected to generate €2,911 million in turnover and sell 448.5 million copies in 2022, the book market is set to surpass €4 billion. This underscores the significant role the book sector plays in the cultural industry.

The question arises: Why not replicate this success in Africa? With the backing of investors and partners, we believe it’s possible to build a sustainable sector that generates long-term employment—an essential challenge for ELMA.

Another objective is to reshape perceptions of the continent through intellectual production. Western media, as per several studies, allocates only 2% of its coverage to Africa, despite being home to 17% of the world’s population. This limited focus hinders a comprehensive portrayal of African reality, often projecting a pessimistic and clichéd image. Addressing this disparity is a pivotal mission for ELMA

In these circumstances, depicting the full diversity of the continent becomes challenging. News coverage often revolves around tragic events, perpetuating a negative and pessimistic image of a continent marked by war, corruption, terrorism, disease, and famine.

I firmly believe that a publishing house holds significance in terms of intellectual and cultural sovereignty. Given the prevailing perspectives on Africa, often marred by darker narratives, our publishing houses must contribute to illuminating the continent. Empowering our authors to contemplate Africa and restore balance is crucial. It’s not about silencing internal challenges, but also about spotlighting the positive developments occurring in Africa. This is the precise role our publishing house is dedicated to fulfilling.

Are you ready to collaborate with the Gambian Ministry of Culture?

EL Hadji Omar Massaly: Certainly, we are actively engaged in Gambia through our dynamic and open representative. We express our keen interest in collaborating with the Ministry of Culture and take this opportunity to appeal to the minister and the government for a partnership to advance the book sector. ELMA is prepared to contribute its expertise and skills to support the relevant ministry. The Gambia, with its significant cultural potential and abundant young talent, presents an opportunity to showcase the country as a destination. Emphasizing culture is a powerful marketing tool for promoting the nation on a global scale.

Have you already published books in English?

EL Hadji Omar Massaly: Certainly, we have published books in English, and several titles originally in French have undergone translation. Additionally, we are exploring the prospect of publishing authors from Gambia, facilitated by our current representative in the country. It is our sincere wish to further enrich our literary offerings through collaboration with Gambian authors.

ECOWAS Inaugurates Two Regional Committees

By: Dawda Baldeh

A four-day regional meeting began in Banjul, organized by the ECOWAS Gender Development Centre (EGDC) to inaugurate two regional committees responsible for examining and selecting projects submitted by ECOWAS member states for the implementation of the flagship programs of the EGDC, based in Dakar, Senegal.

The meeting, scheduled from November 27th to December 1st, 2023, is expected to cover discussions with relevant stakeholders within the ECOWAS member countries.

The meeting brings together representatives from the ECOWAS Commission, ECOWAS Institutions and Agencies, ECOWAS National Offices in The Gambia and Senegal, Civil Society Organizations working on education and entrepreneurship, and experts in the field of education and private sector operations.

The mandate of the two regional committees is to examine and select projects submitted for two flagship programs of the EGDC, respectively: (i) Program on Support to Brilliant but Needy Girls and Boys Specialized Technical and Vocational Education through the award of Scholarships of Excellence scholarships, and (ii) Program on Technical and Financial Support to Women engaged in the Processing of Agricultural, Marine and Handicraft Products in ECOWAS member states.

During the next four days, participants will validate project proposals submitted by beneficiary member states of the two programs for 2023.

In his keynote address at the opening of the meeting, the Chief of Staff of the Office of the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Honorable Abdou Kolley, noted that the workshop demonstrated the political will and commitment of the ECOWAS Commission to promote women and girls’ empowerment in the ECOWAS region.

Mr. Kolley reminded participants that the ECOWAS region is currently characterized by widespread gender inequalities affecting access by women and girls to education, health, the labor market, and land resources, among other things.

These inequalities, he said, have serious repercussions on the effectiveness of international and regional commitments signed and ratified by ECOWAS member states.

Mr. Kolley further pointed out that, in a bid to improve the contribution of women towards regional integration and development efforts, ECOWAS has adopted policy frameworks and institutional mechanisms to ensure effective and efficient management of gender equality and empowerment programs in member states.

He, therefore, called on participants to continue to facilitate women’s access to quality training and the provision of credit at low interest rates, as well as capacity-building programs in the area of entrepreneurship.

The address of the Director of the ECOWAS Gender Development Centre, Mrs. Sandra Oulaté Fattoh, was read on her behalf by Mrs. Salimata Thiam, Principal Program Officer, Gender, of the EGDC.

On behalf of the Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, Prof. Fatou Sow Sarr, Mrs. Oulaté expressed her gratitude and appreciation to the member states, ECOWAS Institutions and Agencies, CSOs, and experts for responding positively to the invitation to take part in the meeting. She outlined the objectives of the meeting and highlighted the rationale and mandate of the two committees that were going to be set up to examine the projects submitted by member states on the two flagship programs of the EGDC. She expressed the commitment of the EGDC to continue to work very closely with member states in the implementation of the Centre’s programs.

The ceremony was also attended by a representative of the ECOWAS National Office in the Gambia, Mrs. Ndeye Tabara Touray. The opening ceremony was chaired by Mrs. Salimata Thiam, Principal Program Officer, Gender, at the ECOWAS Gender Development Centre.

How COP28 Aims to Unlock Trillions for Climate Solutions by Centering Business

Over 70,000 individuals from around the world are about to converge in Dubai to participate in COP28. In the lead-up, the UAE’s COP28 Presidency has made no secret of its ambition to make this the most inclusive and consequential COP ever. While much of that effort has elevated historically underrepresented communities, and rightly so, a lesser-known determination of the COP28 Presidency is about transforming how the COP process engages with the private sector.

From 1-2 December this year, COP28 will feature the biggest gathering of business and philanthropy devoted to solving climate change in history, at the inaugural Business & Philanthropy Climate Forum. Held in parallel with the heads of state-level World Climate Action Summit, the Forum will bring together 1,000 heads of business and philanthropy – alongside policymakers and other stakeholders – to spur tangible climate action.

While COPs have traditionally been seen as a political process, opening the COP28 summit with this Forum will set an entirely new tone. To expedite the pathway to transformative action, the Forum will include a set of 22 actions that CEOs and philanthropists can take right away. These include game-changing climate ‘moonshots’ and breakthrough technologies, expanding indigenous peoples’ direct access to investment, accelerating food supply chain transformation across the Global South, accelerating technology transfer, de-risking green investments, enhancing natural capital, boosting green SMEs and start-ups, and increasing investment in resilience for vulnerable communities around the world. The goal is to provide an accessible way for the private sector to move beyond declarations, into implementation.

From the outset, we’ve established global partnerships with major players who will help galvanise business communities around the world. They include the Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI), International Finance Corporation (IFC), Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), World Economic Forum, Asian Development Bank, Africa Finance Corporation, Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) and XPRIZE.

Fixing climate finance is a top priority. Global investments of over USD 3 trillion per year will be required to enable the world to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. The private sector could play the most consequential role in generating the multiplier effect required to take us from billions to trillions.

For far too long, business and philanthropy have been relegated to the periphery of global climate negotiations, often dismissed as a part of the problem. But this is a terrible missed opportunity. Private capital markets have more than doubled over the past decade, reaching over $23 trillion. Philanthropic capital alone flowing through the global financial system every year is well above 1 trillion dollars. The latter can often be deployed in more flexible, risk-tolerant and patient ways than other forms of finance.

Combined, these capital flows are key to unlocking accessible, affordable and targeted solutions to closing the climate finance gap. And we mustn’t neglect the massive additional contributions that businesses everywhere and of all sizes can make to the climate action agenda through their networks, capacity to innovate, and engagement with local communities.

That’s why the COP28 Business & Philanthropy Forum will support governments, businesses and philanthropists to work together and in parallel, collaborate where they can while playing to their respective strengths. No individual stakeholder can succeed alone. Only when we blend capabilities and capital across these sectors, can we produce outcomes with the required scale and timeframe.

Business and philanthropy hold the greatest untapped potential for accelerating the implementation of the world’s climate and nature goals. It’s time to mobilise the world’s private capital in service of the planet.

Badr Jafar is a renowned billionaire and philanthropist. He is Special Representative for Business, Philanthropy & Private Sector to the COP28 summit, and host of the COP28 Business & Philanthropy Climate Forum on 1-2 Dec which will be opened by King Charles. He is a member of the United Nations Secretary General’s High-Level Panel on Humanitarian Financing, a member of the UNESCO International Commission on the Futures of Education and CEO of Cresent Enterprises. He is a signatory to the Bill Gates and Warren Buffet Giving Pledge.

September 12 Police shooting case: Witness claims to lose audio recording of first accused person

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By: Alieu Jallow

Mama Jabbie, prosecution’s witness 3, has told the High Court that she lost the audio recording she had of Ousainou Bojang, the first accused person, in the ongoing trial of the shooting and murder of two police officers at Sukuta-Jabang Traffic Lights on September 12.

Following the police shooting on Tuesday, September 12, a WhatsApp audio was circulated on social media where a voice believed to be the said accused person (Ousainou Bojang) was heard telling PW3 (Mama Jabbie) that he murdered the two police officers, Police Constable Pateh Jallow, Police Constable Sang J Mendy, and leaving Police Constable Ancy Jawo in critical condition.

Mama Jabbie went on to tell the court that she was forced to deactivate her sim due to cyberbullying she was receiving from the public after releasing the said audio.

When questioned on the possibilities of recovering the audio, she sounded optimistic, noting that the audio might still be available within the internet space, an assertion that Counsel LJ Darboe objected to emphasizing that the audio is all over the internet and that she could revive it and present it to the court.

Reacting to Counsel Darboe’s statement, Mama said: “I may have it if I call someone, if anyone has it on the internet, they can send me because I don’t have it’’.

PW3 further told the court that she didn’t record the entire conversation with the first accused person Ousainou Bojang but recorded the part where he was narrating killing someone.

Defence counsel for the first accused person, Counsel Lamin J Darboe, questioned the witness on her relationship with Musa Camara, whom she called to relate her efforts to apprehend the suspect Ousainou Bojang. PW3 responded that the call was intended for Musa Camara’s wife whom she shares some cordial relations. Nonetheless, the call was picked up by Musa Camara, a phone that served as her medium of communication with Musa Camara’s wife until their meeting in Julunlung.

Janjangbureh Market Vendors Concerned About Unhygienic Conditions

By: Dawda Baldeh

Vendors at Janjangbureh Market have raised concerns about the unhygienic conditions of the market and called on the authorities to intervene.

In an exclusive interview with vendors at Janjangbureh on Tuesday, vendors said the market’s conditions have negatively affected their business.

Malick Njie, the representative of the market association president, told The Fatu Network that vendors are facing difficulties in the market.

He urged the government, through the council, to intervene and address the plight of the vendors.

Mr. Njie added that the market is operating without a toilet and water supply.

“Only one tap is in the market, and that too is not in good condition. The toilets have been abandoned because of their conditions,” he revealed.

This existing unhygienic system has forced the women to take action by constructing a corrugated covered toilet, which is also in a delicate situation.

Despite its coldness to the council, this market looks dirty, thereby affecting business operations.

Aminata Jallow, Market Cashier, described the situation in the market as unhygienic.

“The market is very dirty. There is no water, and the toilets are extremely dirty. No one can use them,” she explained.

She went on to narrate that the conditions of the market have affected their business.

Jallow pleaded for the government, through the council, to help improve the conditions of the market.

“This is the only market in Janjangbureh, and a lot of people come here. It’s shameful to see the market in this situation.

You can’t use the toilets. We want our market to look hygienic because we sell food products here,” she added.

Kanku Camara, a market vendor, said business is not as usual in the market and cited certain factors.

“We are suffering in the market because we don’t have storage facilities, good toilets, and the cost of prices is very high,” she told The Fatu Network.

This, she added, has led to a loss of income due to the destruction of their food products.

Ms. Camara further stated that the market is not fit for purpose and called on the government to help improve its conditions.

“We are paying duties every day, and the market is very bad. This is not fair to us,” she bemoaned.

Several other vendors outlined similar challenges facing them in the Janjangbureh market.

Maternal Care: FaBB Foundation and Qatar Charity’s Transformative Partnership at Essau District Hospital

Under the dynamic leadership of Her Excellency, the First Lady of the Republic of The Gambia, Madam Fatoumatta Bah Barrow, the FaBB Foundation partnered with Qatar Charity to oversee the presentation of medical equipment and assorted items valued at over 6 million dalasi to the Maternity Unit of Essau District Hospital on Monday, November 27, 2023.

This initiative is part of an ongoing effort to complement the government’s Comprehensive Emergency Management of Newborn and Child Health Services under the leadership of His Excellency the President, with the primary objective of reducing maternal, neonatal, and child morbidities and mortalities.

Commending the Qatar Charity Organization for providing invaluable equipment that will significantly improve the quality of care and services at the facility, Seyfo George L. Sonko, Chairman of the Health Centre Management Committee of Essau District Hospital, expressed gratitude.

Mrs. Betty, CEO of FaBB Foundation, also extended appreciation to Qatar Charity for promptly responding to their request and generously donating life-saving equipment to Essau District Hospital. This aligns with the strategic vision of Her Excellency the First Lady, ensuring that every Gambian has access to quality care during pregnancies, labor, and the post-partum period.

Country Director of Qatar Charity Organization, Mr. Hussain, provided insight into their collaboration with FaBB Foundation. Their investment of approximately 6.2 million dollars in life-saving equipment and assorted medical items for Essau District Hospital underscores their commitment to Health System Strengthening and other critical areas. He assured continued collaboration in line with the strategic vision of the Foundation.

Expressing delight and appreciation, the Honourable Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmadou Lamin Samateh, acknowledged the FaBB Foundation and Qatar Charity for complementing the Ministry of Health’s efforts in successfully implementing policies and programs. He encouraged the management of Essau District Hospital to take inventory of the equipment and utilize it for the benefit of the intended recipients. He emphasized the remarkable benevolence of Her Excellency the First Lady, highlighting her historic efforts in mobilizing meager resources for mothers and children at EFSTH when he served as the Chief Medical Director.

In her remarks, Her Excellency Madam Fatoumatta Bah Barrow expressed gratitude to Qatar Charity for positively responding to her advocacy and call for support. This collaboration equips Essau District Hospital’s Maternity Unit with life-saving equipment, aligning with her passionate drive to enhance the government’s efforts, spearheaded by His Excellency the President, in making the Health sector a formidable force.

‘My canteen is no more, and my source of income has stopped’ — Ventors in Brikama market speak on impact of govt’s demolition exercise on businesses

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By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Following the recent demolitions of canteens by the National Road Authorities, with the backing of the police, many market women and vendors in the Brikama market have expressed frustration and hopelessness about where to sell their commodities and make a living.

The Brikama market is hugely affected by the demolition. A large chunk of shops from the Bus Stop towards the Brikama Area Council, where hundreds of people earn their living, were all demolished, leaving most of them no place to sell their goods.

Speaking to The Fatu Network, Awa Bah, a woman in her late 50s said the demolition of her canteen has taken a toll on her family. She explained that her canteen is where she gets her children’s school fees, food, and other necessities in the house. But since her canteen has been demolished, all these things drastically reduced.

“For me, I don’t know what to do now. My canteen is no more, and my source of income has stopped. I don’t have any place to go after this demolition. I do come here every day just to secretly sell my goods, but I can’t even do that peacefully. We run anytime we see the police coming,” she said.

She called on the government and the Brikama Area Council to help them.

Sainabou Sey, a pancake vendor, said that her husband is no more, and she has been taking care of her four children from the proceed from her pancakes. She explained that she didn’t know what to do since she didn’t have any place to sell her pancakes.

“My husband died a year ago, and I have been the one taking care of my children and paying rent since the demise of my husband. Everything that I have, I have it from here. Now I have no place to go and sell my pancakes. Anytime I come here, the police chase me away. Even today, two paramilitary police came here and asked me to leave. I am calling on the president to understand the plight of women and help us. This is not politics,” she said.

Binta Mballow and Awa Manneh, both former canteen owners in the market, explained similar sentiments. Binta, who shares the shop with her husband, said they can’t afford three meals now as they used to due to the demolition of their canteen.

Ebrima Touray sells second-hand clothes, and his place has been demolished too. He left his place in the market and currently sells somewhere far from the market. He told The Fatu Network that since he moved to the new place, his commodity hardly sells.

“Since I came here, I have not sold more than three clothes in a day. I am a family man with two wives. My place was demolished and the government or the Brikama Area Council didn’t give me any place to continue selling my clothes,” he said.

So many people commended the National Road Authorities for the road clearance but raised eyebrows over the demolitions of over a hundred canteens in the Brikama market.

The Chairman of the Brikama Area Council, Yankuba Darboe, last week said that his council has passed a resolution to take legal action against the National Road Authority and the Police over the demolitions.

OPINION: 4-Day Israel-Hamas Truce

By: Musa Bassadi Jawara

First, I thank The Fatu Network for the extraordinary opportunity to use their prestigious platform and express my opinion globally on this ongoing conflict between Israelis and Palestinians. I have written several articles since October 7, on this war and a bit of a hiatus the past 3 weeks due to travels in Europe and the United States.

Israel-Hamas Truce: this is set to expire today unless the warring parties agree to extend it. There is no justification for Israel to resume the bombardment of Palestinian people in the wake of the recorded carnage and destruction of human and material infrastructure over the past 4 weeks.

After the pause, for IDF to resume the aerial bombardment of Gaza, killing indiscriminately the vulnerable population will be vile and abhorrent. The pause revealed that Hamas’ administrative structure is still intact against the backdrop of over fourteen thousand (14,000) Palestinians mowed down during the course of Israeli military incursion. This is glaring evidence that civilians are bearing the brunt of the dead and suffering.

Israelis are making a parallel between 9/11 in the United States and 10/7 in Israel (?)! Israel is in question mark because it’s an occupied Palestinian land where the Hamas attack occurred on October 7. The aircraft hijackers on September 11, carried out terrorist acts on undisputed U.S. territory. This is the starkest difference between the two! The Hamas terror attack on October 7, as vile and heinous as it may be, the crime occurred in occupied Palestinian lands and, this is at the core of the fracas!

The gospel truth is that there is no justification for killing the innocent and, beginning immediately a permanent ceasefire must come into effect after the current truce expires in less than 24 hours.

Israel’s military objective is to decapitate Hamas and replace it with what? Similar U.S. military campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan ended in an ignominious embarrassment in blood and treasure. Ideology will never be conquered by military might. America with all its state-of-the-earth technological superiority left Kabul airport in dramatic fashion and the Soviets a couple of decades prior.

Israel’s military foray into Gaza, sooner or later will come to the same conclusion as the United States in Iraq and Afghanistan. Israeli population in general are good, progressive and peace-loving, but it’s the political establishment that’s driving this genocidal terror wagon for decades and the Palestinian people have fallen prey to it. Prime Minister Netanyahu and Israel War Cabinet must agree to a permanent ceasefire. What’s the justification for continuing the slaughter of Palestinians? Sadly, 1400 Israelis were murdered on October 7. Consequently, 14,000 Palestinians were bombed to death by the IDF in response to the killings of October 7. The question is: how many Palestinian lives equate to the loss of 1400 Israelis?

 

Thank you.

Musa Bassadi Jawara

Mayor Lowe and the UDP – no longer at ease?

OPINION

By: D. A. Jawo

The recent visit of Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe to President Adama Barrow in his native village of Mankamang Kunda, to ‘present’ to him two awards that she had won, and which ceremony was given unprecedented prominence by GRTS, has quite a lot of political significance.

While it is quite normal for any citizen to make a courtesy call on the head of state for whatever reason, but the time and manner it has happened in the case of Mayor Lowe, is a bit weird and unconventional, especially when she was quoted praising the NPP for their stance on her awards and hardly mentions anything about her own party.

We have all been hearing rumours of a possible rift between Mayor Lowe and her party, the UDP, and this visit not only seems to have strengthened those rumours but with almost complete silence from the UDP camp about her, indicates that there is much more than we can see with our naked eyes.

It is now quite obvious to everyone that it is ‘no longer at ease’ between Mayor Lowe and her own party and it would not be a surprise to many people if things eventually fall apart. The apparent rift between her and the UDP was even quite evident during the last mayoral elections when she was virtually left on her own while the UDP seems to have concentrated all their campaign efforts on KMC and the West Coast Region. There is absolutely no doubt that Mayor Lowe was unhappy about that, and she was said to have complained about being abandoned by her own party.

Of course, some NPP militants like Seedy Njie seem to have capitalized on such an apparent rift between her and the UDP in order to drive a much bigger wedge between them. From the look of things, Seedy Njie and his NPP colleagues seem to have succeeded in luring Mayor Lowe to their side. It would therefore not be a surprise if the rift eventually leads to separation between her and the UDP. Whatever happens however, it is unlikely that she would resign from the UDP because she knows that may lead to her losing her seat as mayor, according to the Local Government Act. However, she may try to provoke the UDP into expelling her in which case she can continue as an “NPP independent” mayor, but whether the UDP would fall for such provocation, only time will tell.

What has Mayor Lowe to gain from any such alliance with the NPP, one would tend to ask. The answer may not be quite obvious, but it is clear that she is under intense pressure from several quarters including her own deputy, who seems to be leading a rebellion against her administration by NPP councillors, who form the majority of the elected councillors in the BCC. Now that her relationship with her own party seems quite shaky, she needs to turn to somewhere else to help ward off that pressure and with encouragement from Seedy Njie and other NPP bigwigs, she seems to have chosen to lean on President Barrow and the NPP to help ease the pressure on her.

However, such a prospect may not auger quite well in some quarters within the NPP itself, especially those who see Mayor Lowe as an “enemy” which of course includes her deputy and his group in the BCC as well as those who backed Ebou Faye and fought quite a bitter “war” against her during the Banjul mayoral elections.
Whatever the outcome of this apparent political tussle between Mayor Lowe and the UDP, however, it is most likely to end in a divorce, which could have some ripple effects both for the UDP and the NPP.

‘Your every song sounds the same’: Gee ignites Jizzle beef

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Gee, an inactive Gambian rapper, has accused Jizzle, an Afro-beat sensation, of recycling his lyrics and making similar-sounding songs.

In a war of words between Gee and Jizzle on X, formerly Twitter, the rapper now based in the United States said that Jizzle has a limited vocabulary.

“You have recycled your lyrics until your every song sounds the same. Your vocabulary is limited,” Gee tweeted about Jizzle.

Gee went further to claim that he has outgrown the Gambian music industry because he has earned so much money to be playing in certain arenas.

“FYI [For Your Information], I am not a Gambian artist. I have outgrown that chapter of my life; got way too much money to be jumping on plywood entertaining kids,” he said.

In his response, Jizzle told Gee to continue selling weed and allow him to work. He claimed that he had made more money in music than Gee had made in his entire musical career.

“El Chapa, despite going to school and graduating, you are not doing anything related to academia. Sell your weed and allow the boy to work. I have more money in music than you did in your entire career,” Jizzle responded.

Gee began his musical career in The Gambia and has been regarded as one of the best rappers in the country’s musical industry.
Jizzle, on the other hand, has been doing well in the industry, winning awards and producing hit songs.

Public Service Minister Urges Government Officials and Others to Fear God

By: Dawda Baldeh

While addressing a crowd at a joint meeting in Chamoi Bunda village, Wuli West District, on Sunday, Babucarr Boye, the Public Service Minister overseeing the Ministry of Local Government and Lands, called on government officials and other public servants to incorporate a sense of fear for God into their line of duty.

Boye, who assumed the position a few months ago, emphasized that for the government to realize its development aspirations, everyone entrusted with public institutions should meet the expectations placed upon them.

He noted that if all government agencies work towards the advancement of the country, many challenges faced by citizens could be solved.

“To those in the government, we all have responsibilities. The worst scenario is when a task is given, and it is ignored. One might think they are fooling people, but the angels are recording every single deed. We should not forget that a judgment day will come, and we need to fear Allah. Let’s be honest with ourselves and our country,” Boye said.

He further mentioned that the appointment to the cabinet is a privilege, but the office should not be driven by privilege. Boye stressed that the government cannot achieve its goals alone and, therefore, needs support from everyone.

He encouraged village leaders and chiefs to collaborate with the government for smooth development. Minister Boye added that some projects failed due to a lack of cooperation.

“We observed that sometimes the government brings projects into a community, but acquiring land is always a problem. Property owners will be requesting huge amounts of money instead of making things flexible for everyone to benefit,” he added.

Boye stressed that chiefs and alkalis should help to discuss with their people to mitigate such problems. “The most important thing is for you to leave a good legacy in a place. But if you don’t work for it, then people will celebrate it when you leave,” he asserted.

Emphasizing the significance of collaboration, Boye said development is faster when people work together.

Raging fire consumes Gassama Kunda house, killing one

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A woman has died in a raging fire outbreak that has devoured the entire Gassama Kunda in Jokadu Darsilami village, leaving the occupants homeless and destitute.

The fire broke out at approximately 4:30 p.m. and quickly spread throughout the house, reducing it to ashes within an hour. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but preliminary reports suggest that it may have been caused by an electrical spark.

The blaze consumed the entire house, leaving nothing behind. They lost all their valuable belongings, materials, and some cash in the inferno. This tragic incident has left the Gassama Kunda family in a devastating situation as they mourn the loss of a woman who was seen as the pillar of the house.

Speaking to the media, the head of the Gassama Kunda Family, Baba Leigh Gassama, was in tears as he revealed how shocking and devastating the fire outbreak was for them.

In explaining the scenario, Mr Gassama said he received a call telling him that there was a fire at their house, which was shocking news to him. He revealed that losing the entire house is tragic, but the most shocking part was losing the woman who served as the Pillar of the compound.

He appealed for assistance in these trying times, saying “We are calling on all well-meaning individuals and organizations to come to the aid of this family. They have lost everything they own and are now in dire need of assistance.”

Ansu Fofana, a nephew to the victim’s family, described the damages of the inferno as horrific as a handsome amount [of cash] had perished within an hour of the fire outbreak.

Omar Dibba, the imam of the village, noted that the fire got worse due to the high concentration they gave to saving the woman in the house which led to the spread of the fire to the extent of ravaging the whole house.

The villagers have pleaded with the public to come to the aid of the family, who are now in dire need of assistance.

The heart-wrenching incident has left the village in shock with many residents expressing their condolences to the affected family.

For support to the family, contact these numbers 7045530 or 7785519.

From The Gambia to France: Gambian ‘Hurricane’ makes historic debut

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By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

From starting his football career in Bakau to playing for the First Division League in Gambia and now in the French League 1, this sensational and highly-rated Gambian youngster, Adama Bojang, has become the first player from Gambia to play in the top five European leagues directly from his home country.

The former Steve-Biko attacker, who made his debut for Stade Reims yesterday, is the first Gambian player to play in the top five European leagues directly from a local Gambian club.

Bojang, dubbed the ‘Gambian Hurricane’, came in as a substitute in the Stade Reims 3-1 loss to Rennes.

The Bakau-born lethal striker had played games for the B teams, scoring multiple of goals before the game yesterday.

After ending his long-awaited French League 1 debut, the youngster commented:

“Not the results we wanted today, but Alhamdulillah for making my debut. Thanks to everyone for the support and prayers.
We continue working hard and believe in the process.”

Adama Bojang is a highly-rated youngster with a vast potential for the future. He is the first Gambian to score a hat trick in continental competition and the first to score a brace in the World Cup.

His exploits in the last Africa Under 20 Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup made him a star target for many European clubs.

His move and debut yesterday in the French League 1 have been described as a massive indication that football in the Gambia is growing.

Bensouda reaffirms loyalty to UDP

By: Alieu Jallow

The Mayor of Kanifing Municipality Council, Talib Ahmed Bensouda, has publicly declared his support and loyalty to the United Democratic Party (UDP) amidst ongoing rumours about his plans to form a new political party.

Mayor Bensouda has categorically denied any claims of working towards the formation of his party in preparation for the 2026 Presidential elections.

“I am [a] citizen of The Gambia. It is my full democratic right to belong to any party. It is my full democratic right to start my own party if I so wish and it is my full democratic right to be an independent politician if I so wish.

“All that being said, I chose UDP and support UDP and Ousainou Darboe is my party leader and is my leader who I follow today and for the foreseeable future,’’ he said.

During a recent speech, Bensouda acknowledged the contributions of lawyer Ousainou Darboe, Secretary General and party leader of the UDP, in the fight for freedom and democracy in the Gambia.

He cautioned UDP party members to be mindful of the party’s diverse agendas and followers but reminded them that their shared vision of developing The Gambia and freeing it from its struggles and hardships unifies them.

“I am sharing this piece of advice with you that we should not let the ugly head of division rear its head in our party. I am the national organizing secretary of UDP, and my role is to make sure 2026 UDP wins the presidential elections.”

Mr Bensouda has denied the rumours that are circulating and has emphasized that anyone spreading fake news is misleading the public. He has reassured the members of the United Democratic Party that he is currently with the party. He emphasized that the party has a rich history but also cautioned against blindly believing certain information that could cause division within the party.

“I know a lot of people reacted and spoke out, but I am aware it’s done for the love you have for the party and concern for Talib Bensouda.

“[However] I am humbly apologizing and have it at the back of your mind that I am your brother and anywhere I see you or meet you, I will treat you as my brothers and sisters.”

During a party meeting, he reminded the UDP militants that their mission is to achieve their goals by 2026, but unity is the key to success. He emphasized the need for the party to welcome new members with open arms and make them feel that the party belongs to everyone, not just a particular group. He stressed that if the UDP were to come into power, they would ensure that development is distributed equally among all Gambians, and all resources are owned by the people.

He also highlighted the importance of political tolerance in accommodating others and their ideas in development. He encouraged the acceptance of diverse views and opinions, regardless of gender, race, or religion, to achieve the common goal of national development.

“As I said in the bureau yesterday, let’s unite. Let’s empower each other. Let’s speak to one another [and] minimize the talking and work harder,” Mr. Bensouda said.

Residents of Sare Sofi Rejoice as Direct Aid Ends Their Nightmare of Lacking Access to Water

By: Alieu Jallow

The residents of Sare Sofi are celebrating the availability of safe drinking water. Following The Fatu Network’s publication in August 2023 about the dire water situation in the village, which had forced them to resort to using open wells dug by the village many years ago, strict measures have been implemented on the only available health facility borehole to ensure that everyone gets a portion of the water they need.

Against this backdrop, Direct Aid The Gambia came to the village’s rescue by providing 20,000 liters of safe drinking water to address the long-standing water emergency.

Mr. Alasan Sey, Secretary-General of the village development committee, had earlier told The Fatu Network’s reporter Alieu Jallow in August that the village had been suffering for a long time due to the unreliable old hand pumps that are no longer functioning. As a result, they have been forced to resort to using their old open wells, which they deemed unsafe and unhealthy for their system. Many women had developed chest aches as a result.

Two months later, Direct Aid The Gambia intervened by providing them with a borehole and a 20,000-liter water tank. Speaking to our reporter, Alkalo of the village Sirreh Sey expressed gratitude to the donor and Fatu Network’s efforts in bringing the issues confronting them to light.

“We no longer have water issues in the village, and the coming of this borehole has restored peace, confidence, and, above all, water is no longer scarce,” he said.

Kora Baldeh, a member of the council of elders, expressed the timeliness of Direct Aid’s intervention, lamenting that the village had been experiencing severe challenges in accessing water for a long time.

“Alhamdulillah, the challenges of water have been a big headache for us and our animals, so we thank Direct Aid for wiping our tears, as this water project is a milestone within the district, and we are grateful.”

Echoing the voice of the women, Fatou Sama, a women leader, voiced her gratitude to the donor for coming to their aid, perceiving their greatest nightmare as becoming history.

“There was a big water crisis in our village for centuries, and with the coming of this borehole, it has eased our difficulties. We thank Allah and the donors.”

Nambo Keita explained how, as women, they faced most of the burden of getting water in their households before the borehole came. She emphasized that they had been drawing water from their deep wells, which left dreadful marks on their hands.

“You draw water and draw water until your hands are left with marks, but now Alhamdulillah, you will enjoy sleep and wake up with no body aches. You can rush to the tap and get your water without having to hassle or worry.”

Hon. Bakary B. Kora, NAM for Upper Fulladu, expressed delight over the timely intervention of water in the village, underlining the urgent need for water in Sare Sofi village, as they had been crying out for it for decades, which, to him, is now history.

Speaking on behalf of the donors, Osman Fadulalla said Direct Aid is involved in charity work through the donation of mosques, borehole drilling for underprivileged communities, sponsoring orphans, and the construction of Arabic and Quranic schools.

Other speakers included the Village Development Committee chairperson Nfamara Jerreh Keita and Cherno Musa Sey, the imam of the village, who echoed similar sentiments, noting that the water will go a long way in mitigating their longstanding necessity for water and promoting health within their community.

The villagers were full of excitement following the handing over of a twenty-liter water tank. The dire need for access to safe, clean, drinkable water in Sare Sofi in the Central River Region of The Gambia is now history. However, some residents expressed concerns over similar challenges within the district and region, thus calling on other donors to come to their aid, as water is an essential part of life and religion.

SSHFC MD Calls for Collective Collaboration Among Subsidiary Companies to Advance Social Protection Goals

By: Alieu Jallow

Saloum Malang, the Managing Director of the Social Security and Housing Finance Corporation (SSHFC), has urged its subsidiary companies to foster collaboration and networking to advance the organization’s social protection goals.

Speaking at a social family networking session held at Sun Beach Hotel, which brought together all affiliated companies, the emphasis was on maximizing profits to support the institution’s social protection objectives. Mr. Saloum outlined some of the plans they aim to pursue during the event.

The networking session provided subsidiaries with the opportunity to showcase their competencies, discuss potential collaborations, address challenges, and present their future plans.

Representatives from various subsidiaries, including Njillan Senghore of Trust Bank Limited, Alerie Cassell of the West African Leisure Group, Mustapa Colley of GTSC, and Yerro Jallow, General Manager of Gam Petroleum, presented their companies’ services, set targets, successes, and unveiled future plans.

This event follows the successful launch of the SSHFC Family Concept on March 1st, 2023. The concept focuses on promoting intergroup trade among diverse SSHFC subsidiaries, aiming to strategize and strengthen intergroup trade within the SSHFC Family framework. The primary objective is to create a platform for mutually demonstrating strengths and exploring opportunities for collaborative success.

Mayor Lowe Presents Two of Her Prestigious Awards to President Barrow

By: Dawda Baldeh

The Mayor of Banjul City Council (BCC), Rohey Malick Lowe, earlier today visited President Barrow in his hometown of Mankamang Kunda, and presented two of her awards, namely the UN-Habitat and Dr. Benjamin Barber Global Cities Award, which she received recently.

Speaking briefly to journalists after her closed-door meeting, the opposition mayor revealed that the purpose of the visit was to present her achievements to the president.

“I’m here in my capacity as a Gambian and as mayor to present the awards to the president,” she told reporters in Mankamang Kunda.

The opposition mayor reminded journalists that when she received the awards, she dedicated them to the youths and women of this country, adding that the president was impressed with her achievements.

“President Barrow also came out in his capacity as president and leader of the National People’s Party (NPP) and congratulated me. That means a lot to me. He was very happy to receive the awards,” she said.

Mayor Lowe described the Dr. Benjamin Barber Global Cities Award as the highest award that a mayor can receive. The BCC mayor further expressed her profound appreciation to Gambians and Banjulians for entrusting her to lead the city’s local council.

“I am grateful to the Banjulians for voting for me because I couldn’t receive this award without their support. I also thank my party members and the leadership because I came in their flag,” she concluded.

High Court Rules in Favor of CSC Gambia, Asks Absconders’ Guarantor to Pay $50,000

By: Dawda Baldeh

Justice Ebrima Jaiteh of the High Court in Banjul has issued a judgment ordering Alieu Bangura to pay $50,000 to Cruise Ship Crew Gambia Limited.

Alieu Bangura had acted as a guarantor for Saja Bangura, who was recruited by Cruise Ship to work on their vessel.

However, Saja Bangura deserted the ship, and the court found that Alieu Bangura had no defense in the case.

Despite being served with the plaintiff’s writ of summons and other documents, Alieu Bangura failed to file a notice of intention to defend the suit.

As a result, the court entered a judgment in favor of Cruise Ship Gambia Limited and ordered Alieu Bangura to pay the specified amount as a guarantor for Saja Bangura.

Reacting to the court verdict, Musa Drammeh, the Director of Operations at Cruise Ship Crew Gambia, said the judgment is timely and will pay dividends in preventing people from absconding.

“Saja’s actions by absconding have led to many visa rejections and ruined the opportunity for hundreds of young people who have been in the ship. New hires and those in the shops are not allowed to go out due to one person illegally entering the Americas,” he explained.

Drammeh added, “We are happy that the court has ruled in our favor, and now Saja (Alieu’s Guarantor) will have to pay the money or make sure Saja Bangura is back, or he should be jailed.”

He described Saja’s absconding as a selfish decision that has negatively affected hundreds of others whose visas have been rejected, and their appointments canceled, among other things.

Thus, he said, is significant damage to the agency and the Gambians at large.

Furthermore, the agency warned people whose main objective is to use the opportunity to travel to Europe or anywhere around the world without wanting to work on the ships to desist from doing so.

In his conclusion, Mr. Drammeh warned that the agency will not relent in making sure absconders are brought to justice and encouraged their crew members onboard to work hard and make a better living.

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