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SPOTLIGHT: Pa Modou Njie: From rural roots to tech leader, paving the Gambia’s digital future

Hadram Hydara
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SPOTLIGHT: Pa Modou Njie: From rural roots to tech leader, paving the Gambia’s digital future

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

In the heart of the picturesque town of Farafenni, a young dreamer named Pa Modou Njie, a final year Computer Information Systems student at the University of The Gambia, first discovered his passion for Science and Technology. As a child, he embarked on his educational journey right here, from the primary level to junior school. It was within these humble beginnings that the seeds of his future were sown.

After completing his junior school education, Pa Modou ventured south to the bustling Kombos, where he continued his academic pursuits and ultimately completed high school. Yet, his thirst for knowledge knew no bounds, and his fascination with Science and Technology led him down an exciting path.

Before even setting foot in the University of The Gambia, Pa Modou’s love for the world of bytes and circuits led him to Lasting Solutions, where he embarked on a journey to pursue a career in the tech field. He started with the basics, honing his computer skills and gradually advancing through certificate and diploma courses, earning certifications in CompTIA A+, CompTIA N+, CCNA, and MCSA. His dedication paid off when, in 2016, he secured his first job as an intern at Lasting Solutions, specializing in Computer Maintenance and Repair.

June 14, 2017, marked a pivotal moment in Pa Modou’s career as he transitioned into a full-time position with Lasting Solutions, thanks to his outstanding performance and dedication to the craft. Over the next four years, he would serve as a technician and trainer, sharing his expertise with others.

But Pa Modou’s ambitions reached beyond the confines of any one organization. He began collaborating with non-governmental organizations, businesses, and civil society groups on Information Technology Management and Digital Innovation. His dynamic and youthful enthusiasm quickly made him a prominent figure in The Gambia’s digital landscape.

In September 2019, Pa Modou’s academic journey brought him to the University of The Gambia, where he pursued his dream field of study, Computer Information Systems. As he honed his knowledge, he realized the immense potential he had to impact his community through education and leadership.

In February 2022, Pa Modou made a life-changing decision to leave a well-paying job to devote himself entirely to education and leadership. This bold move culminated in his successful run for the Presidency position at the University of The Gambia School of ITC, a role he passionately assumed in 2022.

Pa Modou is more than just a dreamer; he is a visionary. His ambition is to become an expert in ICT Management and a Digital Innovation Specialist with a particular focus on Cybersecurity. He envisions himself as a key player in The Gambia’s tech development, addressing critical issues in Agriculture, Health, Transportation, Energy, Unemployment, and Education.

Moreover, Pa Modou’s commitment to bridging the digital divide is evident in his efforts to provide ICT training to rural communities, notably Farafenni, through his organization, Techway Gambia. He has already impacted over a hundred lives across the country, equipping them with essential tech skills for a brighter future.

Pa Modou transitioned to a new phase of his career by joining The National Youth Parliament of The Gambia as an ICT Officer, a dynamic platform dedicated to fostering good governance, democracy, and youth development. Pa saw this as an opportunity to expand his impact and contribute to the betterment of his nation, especially the youth.

In a world driven by technological advancements, Pa Modou Njie is a shining example of how one individual’s passion and determination can shape not only their own destiny but also the destiny of a nation. His story serves as an inspiration to the young and the young at heart, reminding us all that with dedication, innovation, and a love for Science and Technology, we can indeed change the world for the better.

Pa Modou Njie is not just a tech enthusiast; he is a beacon of hope for The Gambia’s digital future.

Judicial officers to have lifetime payments if…

Hadram Hydara
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Judicial officers to have lifetime payments if…

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Judicial officers in The Gambia will receive a lifetime pension equivalent to their salary after retirement if the Judicial Officers’ Remuneration and Other Entitlement Bill 2023 is passed by the National Assembly next week.

Yesterday, on September 4th, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dawda Jallow, submitted the Judicial Officers Remuneration and Other Entitlement Bill for 2023 to be debated in Parliament. If approved, the bill will become law, and it will ensure that judicial officers receive pension payments equivalent to their salaries at the time of retirement.

According to Section 18 of the bill, retired judicial officers will receive a pension equal to their last salary received before retiring. “(1) A Judicial Officer shall be paid such pension as prescribed as follows:

“(a) pension equal to last salary in service shall be payable to the occupant of the office of the Chief Justice who retires after serving as such for a period of five years;”

In section 20 of the bill, which states the duration of the pension remuneration, highlights that the pension remuneration of the judicial officers will be for a lifetime starting from the date of their retirement as judicial officers.

“A pension granted to a Judicial Officer under this Act shall commence on the date of his or her attaining the age of retirement and shall continue during the life of the Judicial Officer”.

The pension remuneration of the judicial officers in the bill is subjected to review whenever the Gambia government reviews its salary structure.

The retirement benefits, security, and tax exemption are all included in the bill sent to the parliament by the justice minister, Dawda Jallow.

The first reading of the bill was done at the parliament and the lawmakers are expected to debate over the bill on Monday, September 11 during the National Assembly session.

Kombo East NAM reveals securing large-scale projects, opportunities for his constituency

Hadram Hydara
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Kombo East NAM reveals securing large-scale projects, opportunities for his constituency

By: Alieu Jallow

The National Assembly Member for Kombo East, Honourable Abdou Sowe, has revealed to The Fatu Network that he has successfully secured large-scale projects and social opportunities for his constituency from regions across eastern Africa, central Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

During the parliamentary recess period, Sowe took the initiative to travel to these regions on a self-funded voyage to lobby for projects and opportunities that could benefit his constituents.

Sowe, who previously worked as a banker, was eager to make progress towards his goal and didn’t want to wait for fully funded trips with per diems or waste an unnecessary number of finances travelling around when he could personally search for projects that would have a significant impact on the lives of his people.

“I feel like travelling outside of the Gambia to hunt for opportunities for my constituency and country.

“Knowing the limited resources that our country has and where we sat in the need of having our basic necessities, I have already had some prospects and pledges that are going to give headway to a solution to the problems I am seeing within constituency”.

Honourable Sowe described attending forums with other parliamentarians from Eastern and Central Africa who are not connected with West Africa, noting that he used this rare opportunity to present some of the challenges faced by his constituency. He also talked about the potential for their inventions to change the status quo in the Middle East and Asia.

“I am able to get four institutions that are ready to come in to provide safe portable drinking water with the negotiation on those pledges above 60% and by next week, I have to return to close [those] pledges so I can bring them back to my people,” Honourable Sowe said.

He stated that he is working towards closing various opportunities by next week. These opportunities include access to safe portable drinking water, food aid, pilgrimage packages, Christian support services, scholarships and agriculture.

The Fatu Network will fact-check some of these claims. He has agreed to provide copies of the projects he has closed.

Foni Bintang NAM commits to addressing Bintang Karanai electricity issues

Hadram Hydara
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Foni Bintang NAM commits to addressing Bintang Karanai electricity issues

In response to the publication by The Fatu Network, which highlighted the plight of the natives of Foni Bintang Karanai regarding electricity and poor road network just a week ago, National Assembly Member for Foni Bintang Karanai, Hon. Bakary K Badjie, accompanied by the Public Relations Officer of the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC), went to the villages to address the issues and showed their commitment to finding solutions.

Hon. Badjie responded to the news by visiting the villages and holding a consultative meeting to plan the way forward. In an exclusive interview with our reporter, Alieu Jallow, Hon. Badjie acknowledged that his visit was prompted by the media publication brought to his attention. He also expressed confidence that the process would be realized soon.

“I am confident that the work will kickstart very soon. I am not someone who wants to lie to anybody, but I want to tell you as it is, so [that] people know why I went there with the NAWEC PRO himself. [I went there with him] so he [can] speak [for NAWEC].

Hon. Badjie confirmed that following a fruitful consultation, NAWEC PRO assured that the electrification of the village and surrounding areas will be resolved by December 2024.

“I will not relent on making the follow-ups until this dream is realised.”

After hearing about the electrification project, Fatou Gassama expressed her excitement and eagerness to have electricity in her community. She believes that it will enhance security and improve social comfort for her family and the community.

“The news is pleasing to our ears, and we are in haste for electricity to come as it will provide comfort for my kids. We thanked The Fatu Network for the publication that triggered this move”.

Echoing similar sentiment, Ngasuumana Darboe said the news is a relief but looking forward to the dawn of an era in their lives when the project is fully implemented.

“On that day even if it means rejoicing and dancing the entire night, we will do so without an iota of doubt,” Darboe said.

JS Sanneh Advises IGP to Drop the Case Against BAC Chairman

Seringe Touray
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JS Sanneh Advises IGP to Drop the Case Against BAC Chairman

By: Sainabou Gassama

Ibrahim JS Sanneh, a former independent candidate who contested against Hon. Yankuba Darboe in the Brikama Area Council chairmanship election, has urged the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to immediately dismiss the case against Hon. Yankuba Darboe, the Brikama Area Council Chairman, and prioritize peace.

Sanneh advised the state to consider discontinuing the case due to the potential threat it poses to the peace and stability of the country, especially in the West Coast Region. He emphasized, “The people of the West Coast have spoken.”

He pointed out that the state has failed to expedite the case and deliver a verdict before the chairmanship election. He stressed the significance of timing in all actions.

Additionally, he emphasized the importance of prioritizing the nation’s interests in all decisions made by both citizens and the state. Sanneh urged every citizen to respect the country’s laws, regardless of their status, for the sake of national peace and stability. He argued, “To err is human. If Hon. Yankuba Darboe is alleged to have committed a crime by insulting judges or anyone else and has subsequently apologized for his actions, the state or any concerned party should have forgiven him, allowing us to move forward.”

He cautioned against pursuing the case further at this time, as it might incite reactions from the electorate that could have unfavorable consequences. Sanneh reminded that Darboe, as the Chairman of the largest region in the country, is no longer an ordinary citizen, and over 77,000 people voted to place him in that office.

However, he made it clear that he wasn’t suggesting that the state had no case against Darboe, as that should be determined by the country’s laws. Nonetheless, he stressed the importance of prioritizing the country’s interests when dealing with sensitive matters.

GDC’s Lamin Bojang Expresses Concern Over Recent Waste Dumping at Tambana

Seringe Touray
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GDC’s Lamin Bojang Expresses Concern Over Recent Waste Dumping at Tambana

By: Sainabou Gassama

Lamin Kb Bojang, the National Treasurer of the Gambia Democratic Party (GDC), has voiced deep concern over the recent waste dumping incident involving the Kanifing Municipal Council’s (KMC) waste disposal trucks at the Tambana Waste Composting Plant in Brikama.

Bojang’s investigation has revealed an agreement between the authorities at the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) and the Brikama Area Council (BAC) permitting waste disposal in Brikama. According to this arrangement, KMC pays D200 (two hundred dalasis) to BAC for every truckload of rubbish deposited at the Tambana dump site. The Environment and Health Committee of the Brikama Area Council has reportedly endorsed this agreement.

He remarked, “I don’t know the environmental and health expertise held by the members of this committee. Given that Brikama is one of the most densely populated settlements in the country, no health or environmental professional would endorse this harmful agreement, which clearly poses a threat to the health and well-being of Brikama residents and its surroundings.”

Bojang has pledged to draft a protest letter addressed to the Chairman of the Brikama Area Council (BAC). Copies of this letter will be sent to the Governor of the West Coast Region, the Minister of Local Government, and the Minister of Health and Social Welfare. He also plans to involve the Council of Elders, known as “Bulunda,” who are the custodians of Brikama, to intervene and halt this potential health hazard for the people of Brikama. He firmly stated, “We will not fold our hands while our city is being turned into a new Bakoteh.”

Bojang has proposed that KMC considers using Abuko and Jeshwang as alternative dumpsites, as they are suitable locations within the Kanifing Municipality. Such a move would not only be more cost-effective for KMC but also eliminate the need to transport waste all the way to Brikama. He emphasized, “If our appeals fall on deaf ears, we will resort to legal action.”

Banjul North NAM Hon. Bah Donates D50,000 to Nawettan Teams

Seringe Touray
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Banjul North NAM Hon. Bah Donates D50,000 to Nawettan Teams

By: Dawda Baldeh

Banjul North National Assembly Member, Honorable Momodou Lamin Biram Bah, also known as L Bah, generously donated D50,000 to nine qualifying ‘Nawettan’ teams in Banjul North on Friday, September 1st, 2023. The presentation event was attended by prominent figures in the capital of Banjul, including Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe. This marks the second time that the lawmaker has shown his support for Nawettan in his constituency.

Addressing a diverse audience of supporters, enthusiasts, elders, and sports officials, Hon. Bah stated that this initiative aims to support young athletes for a brighter future. He explained that in the previous year, he supported the teams differently by providing footballing equipment to all nine teams and one under-16 tournament organizer in his constituency. “I did this last year but in a different form which involved presenting footballing materials to all the nine teams and one under-16 tournament organizer in my constituency,” he said.

However, this year, he decided to provide a cash prize of D50,000, with each team receiving D5,000, and the remaining D5,000 going to Sheriff Camara (known as Chipa Yi), who organizes U-16 tournaments for children in Banjul.

Bah elaborated on his decision to support Sheriff Camara, saying, “He organizes U-16 tournaments that have attracted more than 34 teams in Banjul.” He expressed optimism that this financial assistance would empower his constituents and emphasized his commitment to addressing their concerns, particularly those related to young athletes. He hopes that this gesture will grow even more significant in the coming years, as this is the second edition of his support.

The Banjul North representative acknowledged that most, if not all, of the teams were facing financial challenges in financing their participation in the Nawettan. He recognized that the amount might be modest but emphasized its importance in covering certain expenses. Nawettan events in the city consistently draw large crowds of spectators eager to witness young talent, and Bah expressed his happiness in giving back to his community, emphasizing that this contribution came from his personal funds, not from any external donors.

Sheriff Camara, also known as ‘Chipa Yi,’ who is an artist by profession and involved in scouting young footballers, expressed his gratitude to Hon. Bah for the support, stating that it would greatly assist in addressing their needs. He encouraged others to offer similar support, recognizing the high costs associated with football and commending the commendable support from individuals.

Numerous other speakers at the event commended Hon. Bah for his initiative, encouraging him to continue and expand his support to benefit more people in his constituency.

The teams that received support are as follows: ‘Janta Bi,’ ‘Happy Corner,’ ‘Makan Bi,’ ‘Atletico,’ ‘Black Diamond,’ ‘Jamsen,’ ‘Fire House,’ ‘London City,’ ‘Revelation,’ and ‘Chipa Yi.’

Security Sector Reform Round Table Discussion with CSOs Marked Successful

Seringe Touray
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Security Sector Reform Round Table Discussion with CSOs Marked Successful

By: Alagie Cherno Suwareh

The Office of National Security (ONS), with the support of the Center for Research and Policy Development (CRPD), organized a successful roundtable discussion with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) on Friday, September 1, 2023. This event was made possible through funding from the African Transitional Justice Legacy Fund.

The primary objective was to address a key recommendation put forth during the National Consultative Workshop on the Policy Objectives of the Security Sector Reform and Resource Mobilization, held in Banjul from June 13 to 16, 2023. These recommendations, specific to CSOs, revolved around enhancing communication, collaboration, coordination, and partnership mechanisms related to the Security Sector Reform (SSR).

During the discussion, Mr. Abubakarr S. Jeng, the National Security Adviser to the President, emphasized that SSR is an ongoing process rather than a one-time event and that it is progressing as planned. The roundtable dialogue with CSOs signifies positive momentum for the SSR project, which, according to Mr. Jeng, is anticipated to be fully implemented by 2027: “The project is expected to be fully implemented in 2027.” Although, he made clear, certain critical security sector reforms will extend beyond this timeframe.

Another significant contributor to the discussion was Mr. Sait Matty Jaw, the Executive Director of the Center For Research and Policy Development (CRPD), known for his active advocacy for human rights. He expressed confidence that the introduction of SSR would enhance the security sector and commended the government’s keen interest in the project. He noted, “There is great will from our partners to implement the SSR,” and highlighted their collaboration in training the military using framework models developed for human security.

The roundtable discussion saw participation from representatives of CSOs, the EU, NGOs, various security institutions, and the media.

Mr. Rohan Burdett, an EU consultant serving as the SSR program manager within ONS, chaired the group discussion. Participants deliberated on the four key recommendations and proposed activities related to constructive engagement, coordination, collaboration, and partnership between CSOs and ONS as outlined in the SSR process. This was followed by plenary discussions to review and adopt an Action Plan for the way forward. The discussions also included outlining an implementation schedule matrix, establishing concrete timelines, key performance indicators, deliverables, and mechanisms for effective Monitoring and Evaluation. Funding sources were also identified to enhance the implementation of these recommendations.

These recommendations and steps, when put into practice, are expected to ensure widespread support for SSR, inclusivity, improved communication channels, and an effective advocacy strategy for public awareness and outreach involving relevant communities and CSOs as crucial stakeholders and partners in the process. The ultimate goal is to create a security sector capable of delivering optimal security and safety services to the citizens of this great country.

Gambian Students Studying Overseas Express Concerns Over ‘Low Stipends’

Seringe Touray
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Gambian Students Studying Overseas Express Concerns Over ‘Low Stipends’

By: Alagie Cherno Suwareh

In interviews conducted with Gambian students studying in more than five countries, including Morocco, China, Russia, Turkey, and India, The Fatu Network discovered that the annual stipends they receive are insufficient to cover their living expenses in these foreign countries.

Gambian students studying in Morocco reported receiving $900.00 annually for those residing on campus and $1,200.00 for those living off-campus. Meanwhile, students in Russia receive only $400.00 per year, and those in India, China, and Turkey receive a meager $300.00 annually.

One student in India expressed their frustration, stating, “It’s embarrassing that what we receive annually is equivalent to what students from other African countries receive monthly.” They pointed out that students from Uganda and Mozambique, for instance, receive between $100.00 and $360.00 per month, a stark contrast to the $300.00 per year provided to Gambian students. In Russia, Angolan students receive $420.00 for BSc, $630.00 for Masters, and $1000.00 for PhD programs, all on a monthly basis, in addition to their institutional stipends, while Gambian students receive only $400 per annum.

The Fatu Network visited The Gambia Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Science (MoHERST) to gather facts and met with the Permanent Secretary, Dr Yusupha Touray.

Dr Touray clarified that “what the students receive is not a stipend but a top-up.” He explained that the stipends primarily come from their respective universities, thanks to partnerships between the Ministry and these higher education institutions. For instance, students in Morocco receive their monthly stipends from AMCI, while those in India receive theirs from ICCR. The Ministry provides a top-up to these students, and Dr Touray suggested that the students should convey this information to The Fatu Network. He noted that non-civil servant students studying in these countries, who don’t receive stipends from the host nations, receive approximately $500.00 per month. Dr Touray acknowledged that the stipend rates have remained unchanged for an extended period and emphasized the need for a review.

The Permanent Secretary assured that the Ministry is actively addressing the situation and working to make improvements, with the aim of achieving more favorable outcomes for the students. He mentioned ongoing reviews of the current scholarship policy documents and plans to enhance pre-departure orientation for students while also strengthening the relationship between students and the government.

Dr Touray urged the students to exercise patience and engage in dialogue when addressing their challenges, emphasizing the importance of character development alongside qualifications in their future careers. He regarded the students as part of the family and suggested that in the field of education, it’s crucial to navigate challenges without unnecessarily blaming the system.

“I see them as family, but in education, it’s not just about qualifications; character too is required to fit in their future workplaces. Sometimes, things do not go our way. This does not mean we have to take advantage of the situation and blame the system unnecessarily,” Dr Touray said.

‘Ministry of Education is like any other ministry’: Finance Minister tells Foni Bintang NAM

Hadram Hydara
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‘Ministry of Education is like any other ministry’: Finance Minister tells Foni Bintang NAM

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

The Minister of Finance & Economic Affairs, Seedy KM Keita, has addressed the concerns raised by Bakary Badjie, the National Assembly Member for Foni Bintang, about the underfunding of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, explaining that while the education ministry is important, it is subject to the same budget constraints as other ministries in the first half of the budget period.

The minister was responding to questions from the lawmakers after his oral ministerial statement on the implementation of the annual budget in the opening of the 3rd ordinary session of the National Assembly today, September 4.

“We have made sure that all their essential elements have been spent. I remember we have, even in the month of July, spent an additional amount of more than 85 million which is not included in the here [statement] of SIG and school textbooks.

“So, the numbers speak for themselves. But the ministry of education is like any other ministry, they are all subjected to the budget constraints which every ministry is witnessing,” said Finance Minister Seedy Keita, who was responding to Bakary Badjie’s claim that the ministry’s budget forecast is wrong.

The NAM for Foni Bintang, Hon. Bakary Badjie, claimed that the Finance Ministry’s forecast for the 2023 budget was incorrect based on the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education as a basis.

“We have realized that your forecast as a ministry is wrong. By looking at the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, from January up to date, they have received 23-24% of the disbursement.

“And at the end of the day, when they could not have the 100% allocations, it handicapped the ministry. Not only does it handicap the ministry, but come in the 2024 budget allocations, your ministry will come with the fact that they could not exhaust their budget, and their budget will be cut down,” Foni Bintang NAM claimed.

The finance minister responded by informing the Foni Bintang NAM that the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education is the second-highest executing ministry in terms of budget in the first half of the year. According to him, the ministry has already spent over one billion dalasis.

“For your information, the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education is the second-highest budget execution ministry. We have spent the first half of the year 1.89 billion on the sector,” he replied.

The finance minister appeared before the lawmakers to read a statement regarding the first half of the 2023 budget.

NA Speaker FTJ describes purchase of NAM vehicles as necessary 

Hadram Hydara
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NA Speaker FTJ describes purchase of NAM vehicles as necessary 

By: Alieu Jallow

The Speaker of the National Assembly, Fabakary Tombong Jatta, has provided clarity on the controversy surrounding the purchase of 58 luxury Toyota Prado vehicles for 2.5 million each to the National Assembly, noting that the purchase of these vehicles was necessary for the effective functioning of the Assembly as an equal arm of the government.

The purchase of these vehicles had sparked public debate and media scrutiny. He emphasized that the purchase was done fairly and transparently, with 50% of the cost being shared equally among the NAMs and the other 50% being paid by the National Assembly.

“Honourable Members, it is just understandable today that some of the brilliant initiatives taken by National Assembly authorities receive backlash from the public, however, this Assembly being a democratic institution takes note of all opinions and concerns raised by the citizens and indeed constructive public opinions are the most supreme means of accountability,” Speaker Jatta.

The Honourable Speaker emphasized that since Independence, the parliament has been at a disadvantage in performing its functions and taking its rightful place in the governance architecture. The Speaker noted that the parliament must be equipped with the necessary resources, and the assembly is committed to making that happen.

Following the announcement of the purchase of the 58 luxurious Toyota Parado at the cost of 2.5 million, the National Assembly Members have come under public backlash which slammed them as selfish amid the rising cost of living and unemployment.

However, the MPs have defended the purchase of the vehicles, saying it is part of a trust fund bill passed by the House during the tenure of the last parliament.

According to reports, the MPs will only pay half of the money for each vehicle while The Gambia government will pay the other half of the vehicle.

Former Niamina East Legislator Hon. Ceesay Emphasizes the Necessity of Term Limits in Modern Politics

Seringe Touray
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Former Niamina East Legislator Hon. Ceesay Emphasizes the Necessity of Term Limits in Modern Politics

By: Dawda Baldeh

Honorable Omar Ceesay, the former National Assembly Member representing Niamina East Constituency, has underscored the importance of term limits in contemporary politics. He proposes and hopes that the Gambian leadership incorporates term limits into the country’s constitution.

“In the case of The Gambia, President Adama Barrow should consider reintroducing the well-known draft constitution before lawmakers,” he suggested.

Furthermore, he stated that if the draft constitution cannot be reintroduced, a specific bill should be presented to lawmakers before the upcoming presidential election in 2026 to restrict any future president, including President Barrow, from serving more than two terms of five years each.

“My generation would view it as a potential coup d’état if one person remains in power for more than two terms without demonstrating substantial achievements,” Hon. Ceesay conveyed to The Fatu Network.

He emphasized that term limits are a crucial component of any democracy, asserting that their inclusion in the political system would hold national significance in preventing the emergence of another dictatorship or potential political conflicts.

Amnesty KM trains 150, aims to build more inclusive society through capacity-building

Hadram Hydara
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Amnesty KM trains 150, aims to build more inclusive society through capacity-building

By: Alieu Jallow

On Saturday, September 2nd, the Amnesty International Kanifing Municipality chapter trained over 150 participants. The training aimed to build a more inclusive and compassionate society by promoting awareness of human rights and conflict resolution among the residents of Kanifing Municipality. The sole objective of the capacity-building exercise was to foster a greater understanding of fundamental human rights and promote peaceful resolution of conflicts.

Muhammed Hydara, the president of Amnesty KM group, said the training aims to promote understanding of basic human rights principles within communities with low awareness of violations.

“So, we deem it necessary to organize a training where we train our participants on four thematic areas on human rights and how to address violations because in our society violations have become a tradition, which is becoming a challenge so young people understanding these issues will enhance our human rights advocacy in society coupled with peace conflict resolutions,” Hydara said.

Priscilia Yagu Ceesay, a co-founder and trainer at WAVE, emphasized the organization’s commitment to promoting and protecting human rights through its training programs. She noted that the training is crucial in bridging the gap in knowledge and understanding of how to promote and protect human rights. Many state actors are not aware of their responsibilities as rights bearers, and there is a lot of impunity with little action taken to address violations. Therefore, WAVE will continue to introduce and reintroduce human rights training to help address this issue.

“So, when there is impunity and accountability, then the circle of violence and violations continues but I believe when there is accountability for right violations then that would contribute to stemming the scotch of the violations”.

Mansour Jobe, the Director of Legal Affairs and Investigations at the National Human Rights Commission, highlighted that the training is appropriate as it involves young people who are critical in advocating for human rights and helping to shape society.

Mr. Jobe underscores the significance behind building the capacity of young people, underlining the country’s past human rights records.

“There needs to be more awareness creation, people and civil society need to empower so that they can hold government accountable but also the government needs to be responsive to the needs of the ordinary people to ensure the rights of individuals are respected and protected, and of course not limited to civil and political rights but also economic, social and cultural rights”.

Gassamading Dampha and Siaya S Sanyang, all participants, are hopeful of being upgraded to enhance their understanding of fundamental human rights and how to address rights violations in society, especially among their peers.

Amnesty International is a human rights organisation established in 1970 with a focus on advocating human rights issues in the world and the organisers are optimistic that capacity-building programs like this will help to shape a just society and restore the lost glory after the post-Jammeh era.

Thousands of Nigeriens Demonstrate, Demanding Withdrawal of 1,500 French Troops from the Country

Seringe Touray
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Thousands of Nigeriens Demonstrate, Demanding Withdrawal of 1,500 French Troops from the Country

Earlier today, thousands gathered in Niamey to express their demand for the withdrawal of French troops from Niger, a move sought by the junta that seized power in late June. The demonstrators gathered near a military base housing French soldiers, responding to the call made by several civic organizations opposed to the presence of the French military in the country.

Amidou Gourou, a protester, explained their presence, stating that the protest signifies their “determination, commitment and devotion to getting the French military force and all the military bases out of the country.”

Niger’s military regime escalated its criticism of France on Friday, accusing Paris of “blatant interference” for supporting the ousted president, Mohamed Bazoum.

In early August, the regime declared the termination of military agreements with France, despite France’s continued claims of their legitimacy. France currently maintains around 1,500 soldiers in Niger to assist in counteracting jihadism in the region.

The military rulers additionally announced the immediate “expulsion” of the French ambassador, Sylvain Itte, and the revocation of his diplomatic immunity, citing concerns about public order.

French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his appreciation for Itte’s work in Niger on Monday and indicated that he would remain in the country, despite having been given a 48-hour deadline to depart Niger a week earlier.

Bundung Women Call on NAM to Address Extreme Water Shortage

Seringe Touray
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Bundung Women Call on NAM to Address Extreme Water Shortage

By: Alagie Cherno Suwareh

A group of women from the Bundung Six-Junction area recently visited their National Assembly Member, Mr. Sulayman Jammeh, to express their dissatisfaction with the ongoing water crisis in their community.

In a move that appears to be more of a plea than a protest, they conveyed their frustration, as NAWEC (National Water and Electricity Company) has yet to provide a satisfactory response or effectively resolve the water crisis that has persisted for many years.

The representative of the women stated, “We simply don’t have access to water, and yet they continue to send us water bills every month. How can they expect us to pay for a service we are not receiving?”

Another woman shared the hardship they’ve endured due to the water shortage, saying, “We’ve been grappling with this water crisis for over two decades. I have to wake up my children early every morning to fetch water, which makes me late for work. Sometimes, we don’t even have enough water to drink, and some of our women have fallen ill as a result.” She pledged to their NAM to seek answers from NAWEC before September 27, 2023, when they plan to mobilize the entire Bundung community in their cause.

BAC chairman sedition charges: Councillors condemn court case 

Hadram Hydara
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BAC chairman sedition charges: Councillors condemn court case 

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

The councillors, both elected and nominated, of the Brikama Area Council (BAC) have condemned the charges of sedition and contempt of court brought against Yankuba Darboe, the Chairman of BAC, by the Inspector General of Police in March 2021.

On September 1st, the council members unanimously expressed their condemnation of the court case against their chairman, Yankuba Darboe. They conveyed their message of solidarity to him and called on organizations and international institutions to support their cause. The council members stated that they stand against all forms of injustice and are steadfast in their support for Yankuba Darboe.

“… Calling on individuals, GALGA, organizations, political parties, decision-makers, influencers and the global community such as ECOWAS, AU, EU, UN, DIPLOMATS and all our partners to join us to act swiftly and decisively to send their message of condemnation, show solidarity and avert all form of injustice against chairman Darboe.”

“We are against all forms of injustice, especially on the arbitrary court case instituted under magistrate ML Thomas by the IGP and the Ministry of Justice, Minister Dawda Jallow, and Chief Justice Hassan Jallow at the Banjul Magistrate Court.”

“Hon. Chairman, you have compatriots from the twenty-eight wards of WCR [West Coast Region] and the entire country at large. We are with you as council members in these extremely difficult moments,” the council said.

The charges brought against Darboe include sedition and contempt of court. The prosecution claims that on 10 February 2021, Mr. Darboe made a derogatory statement against the president of the Gambia, Adama Barrow and the judiciary.

On the 31st of August, Yankuba Darboe was set to begin his defence before magistrate M L Thomas, but his defence lawyer, Lamin S. Camara, requested the adjournment of the case.

The court then granted his request. The case returns to the Banjul magistrate court on the 7th of September 2023.

Burna Boy Breaks UK Record by Claiming Number 1 Spot on Albums Chart

Seringe Touray
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Burna Boy Breaks UK Record by Claiming Number 1 Spot on Albums Chart

Burna Boy just achieved a historic milestone as the first international Afrobeats artist to claim the top spot on the UK album chart with “I Told Them…,” according to the UK’s Official Charts Company, as announced on Friday (today).

While UK-based Afrobeats talents like J Hus have previously secured number one hits, Burna Boy stands out as the first foreign artist to achieve this feat.

This highlights the prevalence of the Afrobeats genre in Britain and globally. Other artists like Wizkid and Davido are also basking in mainstream success, playing an increasingly influential role in shaping segments of popular culture.

The Chief Executive of the Official Charts Company, Martin Talbot, weighs in: “British music fans have always been renowned for their love of new music and embracing cultures from around the world, and the explosion of interest in Afrobeats’ musical culture over the past decade has been a concrete example of this.”

‘The country has failed’: PAP leader says Pre. Barrow is not a good leader

Hadram Hydara
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‘The country has failed’: PAP leader says Pre. Barrow is not a good leader

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Ebrima Tabora Manneh, the Secretary-General and party leader of the People’s Alliance Party (PAP), has said that the Gambia has failed as a country under the leadership of President Adama Barrow, describing the Gambian leader as “not a good leader” and opined that his leadership is not beneficial for The Gambia.

Mr. Manneh, whose candidacy to contest against President Adama Barrow in the 2021 presidential election was rejected, said that the country is heading in the wrong direction because of the high rate of unemployment, and ineffective delivery of basic services by the state institutions. He equally questioned the leadership style of President Barrow.

Manneh, however, said he has enormous respect for Barrow as a president.

“I respect him as a president but as a leader, he is not a good leader. His leadership style is not good for the country.

“The country has failed. The issues we were complaining about then, are the same issues we are complaining about now. Nothing has changed. I said this before.

“The way the government of my brother [President Barrow] is going about in business, I am afraid if he is not careful, this country will fail,” he told The Fatu Network in an exclusive interview.

The PAP leader said the country is experiencing a high rate of unemployment, ineffective delivery of services by state institutions including the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC), and the high cost of healthcare services for Gambians, which he said is expensive for the average Gambian.

“You get many people who graduated from school, and they have no employment. That’s one issue. And then we are decrying NAWEC. Electricity is a problem. Water is a problem.

“There is no improvement in the road network as well. In the health sector, the services are not good enough. And the cost of healthcare is far too expensive for the average Gambian.

“If you go to the public hospital, hardly you get medication. So, you will be referred to private hospitals which mostly do business,” the PAP leader said, backing his assertion that the country has failed under President Adama Barrow’s administration.

According to him, for far too long, the Gambian people have been taken for a ride but leaders. He said that what Gambians have accepted from the government, can only happen in the Gambia.

He further explained that the rise in the country’s debt is a clear indication of the trajectory of the country. He said that since President Barrow came to power in 2017 to date, he has doubled the country’s debt, almost more than the country’s debt during the presidency of the late Sir Dawda Jawara and exiled former President, Yahya Jammeh.

France Rejects the Expulsion of its Ambassador by the Niger Junta

Seringe Touray
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France Rejects the Expulsion of its Ambassador by the Niger Junta

By: Sainabou Gassama

On Thursday, the Niger Junta, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, shared a letter through local media, stating:”The diplomatic cards and visas of the concerned individual (Amb. Sylvain Itté) and their family members have been canceled. Police services have been instructed to proceed with their expulsion.”

The Military Junta leader in Niger, in the same letter, emphasized that the decision taken on August 25 regarding the ambassador’s accreditation is “irrevocable.”

According to the Nigerien Foreign Ministry, the French ambassador, Envoy Sylvain Itté, was asked to leave the country by the junta due to his refusal to attend a scheduled meeting with Niger’s foreign minister and due to “other actions by the French government deemed against Niger’s interests.”

Additionally, the letter warned that the ambassador “no longer enjoys the privileges and immunities attached to his status as a member of the diplomatic personnel of the Embassy.”

However, French President Emmanuel Macron has strongly opposed the decision made by the Junta. In a statement issued on Monday, he declared that the diplomat would not leave Niger, despite the junta’s deadline for his departure.

A spokesperson for the French presidency informed journalists on Thursday that the ambassador “remains in place” despite the junta’s demands.

Regarding the military junta’s cancellation of the French ambassador’s visa and their instruction to expel him, CNN reached out to the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs for comment. The Ministry reiterated their statement from August 25, emphasizing that “the putschists do not have the authority to make such demands.”

France does not recognize Niger’s military authorities and maintains that deposed President Mohamed Bazoum, who was toppled in a coup last month, remains the country’s only legitimate authority.

TANGO director calls for use of local languages during NA Proceedings

Hadram Hydara
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0
TANGO director calls for use of local languages during NA Proceedings

By: Alieu Jalow

The Director of TANGO Ndey S. Bakurin has called on the National Assembly to encourage local participation by having proceedings of the National Assembly in the local languages to reflect a greater understanding by the local Gambian people.

Madam Bakurin made these remarks at a stakeholder’s engagement with the National Assembly on Friday, September 1.

“Despite the fact that our official language is English, we are appealing to the NAMs who are representing the people to have the proceedings in the local language for our local people at the community level as they have to monitor government policies,” Madam Bakurin said.

Madam Bakurin emphasized that it is essential for people at the community level to have an understanding of processing in order to participate effectively. Additionally, she questioned the Parliament’s judgement regarding the need to spend an additional 116 million to establish a new republic, as it is a measure she hopes can be avoided.

“It’s sad and very unfortunate that women constitute only 8% of the members of the National Assembly, we need to correct that. It is about time we started talking seriously about quarters for women in Parliament and of course councils”.

The forum is meant to bridge dialogue and enhance partnerships as watchdogs of society.

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