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Garba Jahumpa says local govt commission ‘is the highest form of injustice against the people of Basse’

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By: Alieu Jallow

Bala Garba Jahumpa, who previously held the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs during the Jammeh regime, has said the ongoing local government commission of inquiry is unjust towards the people of Basse following the commission’s recent findings of the Basse Area Council misusing millions and hundreds of thousands of funds.

“This is the highest form of injustice to the people of Basse, and we could take it up as citizens of the nation to the courts…,” he said.

The politician, who has held various ministerial positions, has spoken out against the government for failing to implement the recommendations of several commissions, including the Janneh Commission, Faraba, Constitutional Review, and the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparation Commission (TRRC).

He has criticized the lack of transparency regarding the sale of Jammeh’s assets and demanded answers about the proceeds. He emphasized that the luxurious assets should not have been sold cheaply and that the whereabouts of the proceeds remain a dilemma.

“Where are the assets that [Jammeh stole] they allegedly claimed to reclaim? Where are the assets? The National Assembly is still insisting on seeing the list. What is there to hide? Bring the list to the National Assembly,”. Jahumpa said.

Mr Jahumpa outlined that there was no need to set up a commission if the asset recovery was done publicly.

“I mean what are all these commissions [for]? All the monies [that were] spent on these commissions, and nothing comes out of it.  The results are zero. Do we want to continue like that as a country? No! We must take our stances on these commissions with zero results”.

Mr. Jahumpa believes that commissions are not inherently negative, as they are recognized in the Gambian constitution as a necessary measure.

However, he shared concerns about the frequency of commission initiation and the excessive expenditures associated with them, which often result in little to no tangible results.

Mr. Jahumpa emphasizes that the Barrow government should prioritize the desires and goals of the Gambian people, rather than resorting to commissions as a default solution.

Nigeria: Gunmen Abduct University Students, Demanding Ransom

By: Seringe ST Touray

In northwestern Nigeria’s Katsina state, gunmen recently abducted five female students from a university, marking the second such incident in the region in the past month. Kidnappings for ransom by armed groups are prevalent in this area due to factors such as widespread poverty, high unemployment rates, and the easy availability of illegal firearms.

The abduction took place early on Wednesday at the Federal University in Dutsin-Ma town, as confirmed by Katsina police spokesperson Abubakar Sadiq. Immediate action is being taken by the police, who are deploying all available resources to ensure the safe rescue of the victims. A suspect is already in custody in connection with the incident.

This event follows a similar abduction on September 22, when at least 24 female students were taken from their hostel at the Federal University Gusau in Zamfara state. Fortunately, a rescue operation conducted by security forces successfully freed 16 of them three days later.

MS Bah Reacts to President Barrow’s Recent Attack on Media Houses, Calls for Immediate Action from CSOs

By: Dawda Baldeh

Recent attacks on media and freedom of expression by President Adama Barrow in The Gambia have sparked concerns among journalists and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).

Muhammed S. Bah, a senior journalist and President of the Gambia Press Union, has urged CSOs to take action and raise awareness about these threats to democracy.

Bah shared his personal reactions following President Barrow’s direct assault on media houses over the past few days.

He emphasized that President Barrow’s actions and statements are disconcerting and demand immediate attention.

“Journalists, media establishments, and members of the public have faced intimidation and harassment both online and offline. This assault on the independent press and freedom of expression undermines the core values of democracy and the progress that The Gambia has made in recent years,” Bah said.

As advocates for democracy and human rights, Bah stressed the shared responsibility of civil society stakeholders to speak out against these acts.

Bah urged CSOs, particularly TANGO, to organize a press conference to denounce President Barrow’s rhetoric and remind him of his obligations to the Gambian people.

“They should also disseminate information about the situation domestically and internationally through various communication channels,” he suggested.

Furthermore, Bah recommended that constructive dialogues with government officials, including President Barrow, should be initiated to express concerns and advocate for the protection of democratic values and human rights.

He suggested providing support to journalists and media organizations that are being targeted, including legal and practical assistance.

Bah further urged CSOs like TANGO to advocate for legislative and policy reforms that enhance press freedom and ensure accountability within the government.

To gain international support, Bah reiterated that CSOs should reach out to diplomatic missions, international organizations, and human rights bodies to draw attention to the deteriorating situation in The Gambia.

He emphasized that CSOs should continue monitoring and documenting instances of attacks on the media and freedom of expression, as it is essential to hold those responsible accountable.

He added, “By collaborating and undertaking these collective endeavors, CSOs can send a strong message to President Adama Barrow that both the international community and civil society are closely watching and will not tolerate encroachments on democracy, freedom of expression, and freedom of the press in The Gambia.”

Bah emphasized the importance of standing in solidarity with the citizens of The Gambia as they strive for a fair and democratic society. It is crucial to act swiftly and decisively to protect these essential pillars of democracy and human rights in The Gambia.

Batchilly Urges President Barrow to End Caricaturing of Political Opponents

By: Dawda Baldeh

Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly, the leader of the Gambia Action Party (GAP), has called on President Barrow to cease caricaturing his political opponents.

Batchilly equally urged his colleagues and opposition leaders to prioritize peace and unity over engaging in caricatures of each other.

According to the GAP leader, adopting these measures will contribute to a better future for all Gambians.

“Mr. President, I implore you to refrain from intervening in the caricature of your political opponents. It is time to focus on the greater principles that our nation and people truly deserve,” urged Batchilly.

He added that they should bear in mind how their actions ultimately shape the future of the country.

Batchilly also advised President Barrow to exercise caution in selecting advisors and to ignore the counsel of those driven by hidden motives.

Referring to such individuals as “Political Dajjaalouns,” who create discord and confusion, “Political Manaafiqouns,” who are hypocritical in their intentions, and “Political Mudillouns,” who lead others astray.

The appeal extends to political leaders and opposition party members, with Batchilly emphasizing the need for respect and a commitment to the greater good of The Gambia during robust debates.

“To my fellow opposition leaders, I urge you to embrace unity, transparency, and justice as guiding principles,” reminding them that their actions have a global impact.

He added that the responsibility that comes with their positions should be embraced, and their decisions should be made with wisdom and a genuine dedication to the well-being of all Gambians.

In highlighting the significance of unity, Batchilly urged citizens to rise above their differences and work towards a brighter and more harmonious future.

Renouncing harmful practices in favor of utilizing collective strength and building a nation founded on peace, prosperity, and enduring values that promote shared humanity, according to Batchilly.

“Peace ideals are meant to reign in people’s hearts, guide leaders, and inspire actions in the ongoing pursuit of a more peaceful and just world,” he said.

Batchilly urges reflection on politicians’ conduct and discourages the caricature-like behavior that often surrounds political discourse.

“Instead, a focus on values that foster genuine peace is necessary,” he emphasized.

Batchilly acknowledges the diverse political landscape of seasoned elders and impassioned youngsters, emphasizing the need to find common ground within it.

He warns against resorting to superstitious or harmful practices, as they undermine the noble pursuit of peace.

He encouraged citizens to harness their inherent powers in positive ways instead of harming one another.

Batchilly believes that unity will allow the construction of a future that transcends mistrust and division, where actions are driven by compassion, understanding, and a shared commitment to progress.

Ousmane Sonko’s Legal Battle Escalates As He Takes His Fight To The Supreme Court

By: Seringe ST Touray

Lawyers representing Ousmane Sonko have initiated a legal counteraction at the Supreme Court through two appeals. This move follows a previous appeal filed at the ECOWAS Court of Justice two weeks ago.

The first of Sonko’s appeals to the Senegalese Supreme Court is related to the refusal by the General Directorate of Elections to provide the necessary form to his representative for gathering citizen sponsorships for the upcoming presidential election. The second appeal addresses the dissolution of Sonko’s opposition party, PASTEF.

Sonko’s legal team argues that the dissolution was unwarranted, contending that the political group was free from any irregularities and had not advocated for insurrection. They assert that prior warning should have been issued before deciding to dissolve the group. Both appeals were officially submitted to the Supreme Court on Monday, October 2.

Additionally, on October 3, another appeal was filed with the Tribunal d’instance de Ziguinchor in the southern part of the country. This particular appeal challenges the removal of Sonko from the electoral roll.

Ousmane Sonko, a declared candidate for the presidential election in February 2024, has been embroiled in a contentious power struggle with authorities since 2021, stemming from his involvement in a moral corruption case. On June 1, he received a two-month prison sentence in absentia, and in July, he was arrested and imprisoned. Sonko and his supporters vehemently criticize his conviction and incarceration as politically motivated.

EUCLID University Appoints Professor Momodou Mustapha Fanneh as New Vice Chancellor

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On Friday 29th September 2023, EUCLID University Headquarters at Brusibi announced the Appointment of Prof. Momodou Mustafa Fanneh as the New Vice-Chancellor. Prof. Fanneh, before his appointment to his new job, was the Dean School of Business and Public Administration at The University of The Gambia.

EUCLID University is globally recognized for its commitment to higher education and sustainable development. The University Offers training, Master’s and Ph.D. courses online.

The Director of Communication at EUCLID University described Prof. Fanneh “as a scholar with an illustrious academic background and a vast array of experience in higher education administration. His dedication to scholarly excellence, innovative approaches to education, and a proven track record of leadership make him an ideal choice to steer the university into its next phase of growth and global impact”.

EUCLID’s International Faculty Coordinator and Oversight Council Chairman noted: “Prof. Fanneh’s vision for EUCLID, combined with his deep understanding of the nuances of international academia, makes him the perfect fit for this role. We are confident that under his leadership, EUCLID will continue to scale new heights and solidify its position as a beacon of academic excellence on the global stage.”

Prof. Mustapha Momodou Fanneh is a Gambian Scholar Trained in the United States of America and the United Kingdom. He obtained a Doctorate in Economics at Fordham University, New York, an MBA and MSc. in Economics and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Transportation Engineering. He was a Teaching Assistant and Senior Teaching Fellow at Fordham University and an Adjunct Professor at Rutgers, State University of New Jersey and Lehman College, New York.

He is a Professor of Economics. Until his Appointment, he was the Dean, School of Business and Public Administration (SBPA), University of The Gambia. He is a Senior Trainer and Research Associate at the Center for Policy Research and Strategic Studies (CepRass) and a Senior Researcher and Trainer at the Directorate of Research and Consultancy, University of The Gambia with more than 20 years of research experience. His main research interests are International Trade, Development Economics, Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics.

He worked as a Senior Transport Planner/Economist at the Department of State for Works, Communications and Information, The Gambia, 1996 – 2000. He wrote several papers amongst them the effects of the Structural Adjustment Program on poverty in Ivory Coast, Does the Mode of Financing the Budget Deficit Matter for Inflation? The Case of the Gambia and the effects of foreign direct investment (FDI) and free trade agreements (FTAs) on bilateral trade.

Professor Fanneh worked on multiple consultancies for UNFPA, WFP, ITC, United Purpose, Action Aid, Child Protection Alliance, MoTIE, MoHERST, GBoS and Paris 21, EU, NEA GEF, UNIDO, UNESCO, United Nations Statistics Division’s (UNSD) and One Sight USA.

Professor Fanneh initiated and oversees the numerous graduate and post-graduate programs in the School of Business and Public Administration at UTG. He served as a part-time Lecturer at the Management Development Institute (MDI) and a research supervisor at the West African Insurance Institute (WAII).

While serving as Dean, Dr. Fanneh had been an instrumental figure in the establishment of the SBPA staff association and University of The Gambia Faculty and Staff Association (UTGFSA), SBPA Tutorials Services, and the Center for Policy and Strategic Studies (CEPRASS), which offers trainings for government agencies, the private sector and also conducts research nationally and internationally.

Prof. Fanneh served as Chairman, UTG-UNDP graduate Scheme, Chairman Development of the UTG Strategic Plan 2021-2025, Chairman, Bakau New Town Ward Development Committee, Co-Founder Peace Network, Co-Founder of Scholarship for Disadvantaged Students, Founder of FKF Center for Policy Research and Consultancy. Board Member CMAP-CPP Academic Advisory Board, African Economic Research Consortium (AERC), KENYA and Chairman, Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute (GTHI) and Graduate School Board Member.

Professor Fanneh is a Member for Transformation of Management Development Institute (MDI) to a Degree Awarding Civil Service Institution, Member for Sustainable Financing of Higher Education in The Gambia, Member for Development of National Research Policy, UTG Center of Excellence in Entrepreneurship, Senate Curriculum Committee, UTG Teaching and Learning Committee, MSME Policy Implementation Committee, MoTIE, Member of UTG Appointments and Promotion Committee (A&PC), Member of University of the Gambia Contracts Committee, Member of UTG Staff Training and Development Committee.

Finally, Prof. Fanneh has made a major impact at the (national) University of The Gambia, leading the development of new programs and training a new generation of economic and political leaders for the country. His dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment aligns perfectly with EUCLID’s core values and mission.

EUCLID looks forward to the dynamic and visionary leadership that Prof. Fanneh will bring to the role of Vice-Chancellor. As the university continues to expand its international partnerships and strengthen its academic offerings, Prof. Fanneh’s expertise will undoubtedly be invaluable.

Returning from Libyan detention, Musa recounts perilous ‘backway’ journey

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By: Alieu Jallow

In recent years, many young people have been motivated to migrate irregularly to Europe in search of socioeconomic progress.

According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), between 2014 and 2018, over 35,000 Gambians arrived in Europe through irregular means, while others along the Central Mediterranean Route in Africa have chosen to return voluntarily.

Musa Gako, a tourist taxi driver in Senegambia, shared that he embarked on a risky journey to Europe with the hope of improving his economic status and providing for his family.

“I needed a change to change my economic situation following family pressure,” he told The Fatu Network.

Apart from being a tourist taxi driver, Musa also sells coffee at the beach and shares his aspirations of a better life. He wanted to follow in his friends’ footsteps and make the journey to Italy through the Mediterranean Sea. In 2016, he left The Gambia and travelled to Libya via Dakar. However, he returned voluntarily in 2017. According to him, he was imprisoned for two months but his family was able to secure his release by paying a ransom.

“I was imprisoned for two months, but then my mom paid the ransom. [From there] I proceeded to the capital and had to do some petty jobs just to make money to pay for my crossing. So, [on] one bad Sunday, we were caught by the Libyan police at a checkpoint and sent to the detention centre where I was kept until IOM facilitated my return”.

Musa mentioned that the reintegration package he received, which amounted to D53,000, was not enough to purchase a taxi that could sustain his livelihood. Despite this, he decided to save the money in his account until he met an elderly tourist who generously provided him with additional funds to buy the taxi he currently operates.

“The beach was my place before leaving so when I came back, I went back there and used a friend’s car to drive tourists around until I met an old white man who later supported me with some cash to buy the taxi I’m using today,” Musa said.

When asked if he still wants to take the risky journey, Musa replied that the situation has changed since he felt pressured before. Nonetheless, he still believes that in order to succeed in life, he needs to go to Europe – a dream he strongly desires. He emphasized that the government is not providing a supportive environment for young people to thrive.

Jerma Tourist Taxi Drivers Association calls for sacking of Tourism Minister Hamat MK Bah

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By: Alieu Jallow

The Jerma Tourist Taxi Drivers Association in Senegambia has requested the removal of Minister of Tourism Hamat MK Bah due to a perceived lack of action in promoting development and growth in the tourism industry.

The Gambia’s tourism season is heavily dependent on European visitors seeking warmer climates during the winter months, leading to fluctuations in arrivals and challenges for businesses to maintain a steady income throughout the year.

The Jerma Tourist Taxi Drivers Association urges the President to appoint a creative and innovative individual to lead the sector.

Lamin Njie, a taxi driver, emphasized the need for year-round tourism and called on the Ministry of Tourism to be more creative and innovative in marketing the industry.

“We are tired of every year seeing the minister laying foundation stones for tourist sites without anything happening. I think Hamat MK Bah should be relieved from his portfolio because he does not know our challenges nor even do something to address them,” Njie said.

Mr Njie also expressed disappointment over drivers not receiving any benefits from the 100 million COVID-19 funds allocated to the Ministry of Tourism for distribution.

Meanwhile, Pa Njie, a tourist taxi driver controller, pointed out that tourist sites are in dire need of renovation and upgrades as most of the facilities and structures are outdated or dilapidated.

Mr Njie emphasized that tourists often question the relevance of visiting these places, noting that they have remained the same for over a decade.

“From day one, there is no development and no changes and most of the sites are worn-out, and I feel shy to drive and escort tourists to Kunta Kinteh because there is nothing significant in there. The island is submerging into the river, and nothing is being done to revive the place”.

Njie mentioned that they have no choice but to transport tourists all the way to Fataala Park in southern Senegal due to uninteresting and poorly managed destinations in the country.

The Gambia’s tourism industry mainly revolves around beach tourism and wildlife reserves. Therefore, expanding the range of tourism products and targeting niche markets such as cultural, eco, and adventure tourism can attract a broader audience and increase their length of stay.

However, Abdou Sonko, the Secretary of the Jerma Tourist Taxi Association accused Hon. Hamat NK Bah and his senior management team of embezzling funds allocated for the tourism sector’s development. Sonko believes that Hon Bah’s actions are detrimental to the industry. He criticized the ministry’s “All-inclusive initiative for tourists,” claiming that it is not beneficial for young people trying to make a living, as they are left to scramble for leftovers from hotels.

“We want Hamat to resign because he is not doing enough to empower the youth to work and the all-inclusive which he proclaimed is here to stay will put us off business which will force most of us to embark on the back way,” Sonko said.

The Jerma Tourists Association, consisting of 120 young people, aims to improve the tourism sector and alleviate poverty by creating more job opportunities.

Feyenoord coach heaps praise on ‘incredibly fast’ Yankuba Minteh ahead of Atleti clash

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Arne Slot, the coach of Feyenoord, has praised Yankuba Minteh, a talented teenage player from Gambia, for his incredible speed and unwavering commitment to giving his all on the pitch ahead of their upcoming Champions League match against Atlético Madrid.

Minteh, on loan from the English Premier League team Newcastle United, has had an impressive start to his time with Feyenoord in Holland, having scored three goals and provided an assist in seven games.

Ahead of their crunch tie with Spanish heavyweight Atlético Madrid, coach Arne Slot, assessing the young Gambian attacker, said that the player does not lack confidence and his zeal to give everything on the pitch for the team is huge. He further described Minteh as an exceptionally speedy attacker.

“He certainly doesn’t lack self-confidence. His willingness to give everything is enormous. When we see his statistics, it is really impressive. Minteh ran more sprint meters against Ajax in an hour than many players in the two games. He is incredibly fast. And he wants it so badly.”

Yankuba started Feyenoord’s first game in the group against Celtic as a striker. With his exceptional dribbling skills and pace, he’s expected to play a part in Madrid tonight.

A highly rated youngster with a massive prospect of making it big on the global stage, Yankuba made headlines in The Gambia when he joined Newcastle United from Danish side Odense. The Magpies then loaned him to the Eredisive side, Feyenoord, where he is proving his worth as a hot prospect in European football.

A goal for him tonight will make him the first Gambian to score a goal in Europe’s biggest club competition.

Fortune FC appoints former Gambian international as sporting director

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Fortune Football Club has appointed Momodou Ceesay, also known as Zico, as their Sporting Director to help find the best football talent in the country.

Zico, a former Gambian international player and striker for FC Zilina, recently retired after playing for Fortune in the 2021 Gambia Football Federation. His role will be to lead the club in recruiting and developing young players to improve the team’s performance.

The president of the club, Mr Assan S. Ndure, whose unwavering commitment to changing the narrative of Gambian football is seen in his investment in the team, said the appointment of Zico as the team’s Sporting Director will feed the team with lots of positive energy because he has been in the game for long and understands the role of the task.

“Momodou is a terrific person with massive experience and understanding of the game. We believe that his appointment today will fetch us loads of positivity in our drive to achieve great things as a football club,” Assan said in the club’s official statement.

Momodou Ceesay is a well-revered erstwhile national hero who has a ravenous craving for success. He played a crucial role in the 2005 Under 17 and 2007 Under 20 national teams of the country.

Ceesay was among the first Gambian players to play in the Champions League when his Zilina side faced Chelsea 2010-11.

Fortune FC is a top tie in The Gambia. The club has recently established itself as one of the best clubs in the league, exporting players for international transfers.

Zico’s appointment is set to help coach Jane Joof in his recruitment. He will also serve as a member of the club’s technical setup in the upcoming league season.

You have ‘no power to silence any citizen’: Activist Madi Jobarteh tells Pres. Barrow

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By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Madi Jobarteh, a human rights activist, has expressed concern in response to the recent comments made by President Adama Barrow regarding Gambian democracy and emphasized that the president does not possess the authority to silence or order the arrest of any citizen through the Inspector General of Police.

During a recent visit to his supporters in Niani, President Barrow expressed concern about the state of Gambian democracy and promised to instruct the police chief to detain individuals who make statements intended to incite violence.

However, activist Madi Jobarteh criticized the president’s plan, stating that it is concerning to see the government attempting to silence its citizens. Jobarteh argued that the president has no authority to suppress free speech.

“It is indeed highly worrying that Barrow is speaking about silencing and detaining citizens simply because in his mind people are engaged in empty talk while he is working.

“It is important for one to put it to Adama Barrow that he is neither the lord nor the owner of the Gambia; hence he has no power to silence any citizen. Similarly, he has no authority or powers to order the IGP to attest or detain any citizen,” Madi said.

Madi further described President Barrow’s comments as “a bunch of irresponsible, dangerous, and self-delusional gibberish that must be confronted”.

He called on the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dawda Jallow to educate President Barrow about the content of the constitution because his comments violate his oath of office.

“I hereby urge the Minister of Justice as the government’s chief legal advisor to guide Adama Barrow about the contents of the Gambia Constitution and other laws, as well as the Gambia’s international obligations.

“It is pertinent that Minister Dawda Jallow advised Barrow to understand what a democratic republic is and what is the rule of law and human rights. Jallow needs to educate Barrow to realize that his comments violate his oath of office, hence contravene the constitution, which are grounds for impeachment,” Madi said.

He also called on the National Assembly to advise the president on matters under his responsibility.

BsAC CEO blames lack of data for council’s financial mismanagement

By: Alieu Jallow

The acting CEO of Basse Area Council testified before the Local Government Commission on Monday 2nd October 2023, stating that financial mismanagement at the council was caused by a lack of data in the finance department.

“The Finance Department could not find any tangible data to establish the actual financial situation of the Council. There are the absences of debtor’s registers of all revenue categories to guide us on who owes what to the Council. There are no reports from all revenue categories to guide us on what happened in the past and where we should start from and move forward,” Sallah said.

The lack of financial data has resulted in ineffective budgeting within the Council, according to CEO Sallah. He emphasized the importance of financial data in creating accurate budget forecasts, resource allocation, and distribution. Sallah said without data, financial analysis becomes poor, hindering institutions from identifying challenges and making necessary adjustments to improve their financial viability.

Sallah reiterated that the absence of financial data makes assessing the council’s financial status and identifying areas for improvement difficult, contributing significantly to increased financial risks and a lack of transparency for accountability.

He also revealed that the council operates with seven bank accounts, including GTBank, Trust Bank, Agib Bank, Vista Bank, and Ecobank, while the other two, Supersonicz and Reliance, are both financial services.

Currently, four of the seven accounts are running at a negative balance. Maintaining multiple bank accounts can be complex and time-consuming, requiring diligent oversight to ensure all transactions are accurately recorded and fees are monitored.

Sallah added that running multiple bank accounts increases the potential for errors such as misallocations, duplicate payments, or transfers to the wrong accounts.

“There was no need for operating all these accounts and we have now trimmed the number of accounts to 3”.

When Mr. Sallah took office in July of this year, he reported that the balances in GT Bank were negative D1,106, Trust Bank was negative D917,953.61, Supersonicz was negative D5,514,779.75, and Vista Bank was negative D6,140,006. This brought the total negative balance to D12,573,845.40. However, the remaining three banks had a credit balance of D133,669.91, which means that the council-owned that amount of money.

“We cannot close Vista Bank and Supersonics because we owe them,” he said.

Brufut Health Center Hosts Stakeholder Dialogue on Result-Based Financing (RBF)

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By: Alagie Cherno Suwareh

Result-Based Financial reporting, also known as Performance-Based Financing, is a systemic approach designed by the Ministry of Health, emphasizing results in terms of both quantity and quality of service outputs. It involves empowering health facilities as autonomous agencies dedicated to achieving health-related goals and benefiting their staff.

Fortunately, Brufut Health Center has celebrated three consecutive successes, consistently ranking at the top of Result-Based Financial Reporting. In an effort to keep partners informed, the hospital staff engaged with the Brufut community through the Brufut Village Development Committee, women representatives, and other channels.

Omar Dampha, the officer-in-charge, highlighted the transformative impact of RBF on Brufut Health. The introduction of RBF has significantly enhanced the facility’s performance, placing it at the forefront of excellent performance among health facilities benefiting from the project for three consecutive times.

The benefits of RBF have facilitated the refurbishment of the health center’s infrastructure, ensured the availability of medicines, and improved the quality of service delivery. Dampha emphasized the importance of community ownership, stating, “We want the people of Brufut to take ownership of the project because the higher the turnout, the more rewards we will receive to enable us to undertake more development and continue to excel.”

Kebba Omar Jaiteh, a community health adviser to the Brufut VDC and a retired health expert at the World Health Organization (WHO), expressed delight at the success of the campaign in raising awareness among the people of Brufut to utilize the hospital.

He highlighted the significance of community engagement in strengthening the relationship between the health center and the community. Jaiteh emphasized how RBF could help minimize maternal and infant mortality rates and morbidity rates.

He urged influential figures such as council members, imams, pastors, etc., to join the campaign, especially in encouraging pregnant women to visit Brufut Health Center, where quality service delivery is guaranteed. He concluded by assuring that the two parties would continue to collaborate to serve the community with quality service delivery.

Fatou Bojang, accompanied by her new baby, praised the care she received during her recent delivery, noting a significant improvement compared to her previous experience. She emphasized the quality of service and the comfort of the labor ward as a testament to a smooth and safe delivery.

Another woman, Binta, who had not experienced hospital delivery before, encouraged women to visit health centers for delivery, highlighting the incomparable difference in safety. “My baby has recovered thanks to the service we received here at Brufut Health Center.”

In a conversation with Sarjo Fatty, a senior Community Health Nurse Midwife, she shared her experience before the implementation of RBF. “It was very challenging for us as midwives, and we did not receive enough antenatal care.”

With performance-based financing conducted every three months, the staff of Brufut Health Center and community representatives are optimistic about maintaining their excellent service delivery to patients, regardless of tribe, religion, gender, age, or status.

‘We are not going to accept that’: President Barrow embraces tough tone on The Gambia’s democracy

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

The President of The Gambia, Adama Barrow, has declared that his government will not tolerate verbal abuse in the guise of democracy, and he has promised to direct the Inspector General of Police to detain anyone who seeks to provoke violence in the country in the name of democracy and gather them in a single location.

The president was speaking at a meeting with his party supporters in Niani.

President Barrow spoke out against unnecessary remarks and statements that could incite violence. He promised to take action by instructing the police chief to crack down on anyone who uses freedom of speech as an excuse to promote violence in the name of democracy. Regardless of whether he is popular or unpopular as a president, Barrow emphasized that peace must prevail in the country.

“Whether you appreciate President Barrow or not, peace will prevail here. Your hate for President Barrow does not mean that you should be insulting those working under his government. We are not going to accept that. I will talk to the Inspector General of Police to clamp down on those who want to incite violence and keep them in one place. We want development and that is what we are working towards,” President Barrow told supporters.

Gambians were denied their fundamental rights to freedom of speech during the regime of former President Yahya Jammeh, who is classified by many as a dictator. However, since the change of government in December 2016, many Gambians now have the opportunity to speak their minds about issues in the country.

However, President Barrow has said that is getting out of hand and that unnecessary statements are too much.

“…but the democracy is now getting out of hand. Now, the way it works will be changed. Unnecessary statements are too much; words meant to incite violence are too much and that is over now,” he remarked, which was greeted with a lousy applause from the audience.

While addressing the issue of democracy, Barrow explained his government’s commitment to working and delivering goods to Gambians.

D. Jobz Warns Against Selective Promotion of Artists to Avoid Conflicts

By: Dawda Baldeh

Dembo Jobarteh, also known as D Jobz or Baddest Manager, an Artist Manager, and Music Business Consultant, has spoken out about the need for Gambian music promoters to promote artists equally and avoid creating conflicts.

D Jobz told The Fatu Network that treating Gambian artists equally is not just about advancing their careers but also about preserving and celebrating the country’s cultural identity.

“Music has the power to reflect society, challenge norms, and inspire change. By empowering our artists, their work can catalyze social, economic, and cultural development within the country,” Jobarteh emphasized.

According to Jobarteh, there is a tendency among Gambian music promoters to selectively promote certain artists, leading to tensions and conflicts between artists.

Jobarteh noted that fostering a supportive environment for artists entails providing access to education, training, and mentorship programs.

He added, “By investing in their skills and development, Gambian artists can enhance their artistic abilities and gain the confidence to explore new creative avenues.”

He emphasizes the importance of treating all artists equally and providing them with fair opportunities for promotion.

Jobarteh pointed to the example of artists like “The Born Africans” and “Rebellion,” who were highly talked about during their prime.

He suggests that fans should understand the nature of the music business, where trends and popularity can change over time.

“Many artists struggle to make a sustainable living due to limited opportunities and low pay,” he added.

D Jobz believes that artists should be fairly remunerated for their contributions, enabling them to focus on their craft and produce high-quality work.

By promoting artists equally, Jobarteh believes that the music industry in The Gambia can foster a more harmonious and supportive environment for artists.

“This approach would not only benefit the artists themselves but also contribute to the growth and success of the Gambian music scene as a whole,” he added.

D Jobz emphasizes the need for the government, private sector, and society as a whole to prioritize the development and promotion of Gambian artists.

This includes providing financial support, establishing dedicated art spaces and galleries, organizing exhibitions, and creating platforms for artists to engage with audiences.”

Mayor Lowe Receives UN-Habitat Award in Azerbaijan

By: Dawda Baldeh

In Azerbaijan, Rohey Malick Lowe, the Mayor of Banjul City Council (BCC), was honored with the UN-Habitat Award for her outstanding leadership at the local level and her commitment to empowering women and youth in the capital city of Banjul.

Receiving the award on October 2, 2023, in Azerbaijan at the World Habitat Day event, Lowe expressed her joy in a Facebook post.

She conveyed her gratitude to the people of The Gambia, especially the residents of Banjul, for their continuous and immense support throughout her tenure as mayor.

Lowe attributed her global recognition as the first and only female mayor in The Gambia to the votes of the citizens.

She also extended her appreciation to the Chief Executive Officer and staff of the Banjul City Council, as well as the office of the mayor led by Madam Isatou Njie.

Furthermore, she acknowledged the efforts of her team at the Mayor’s parlor and expressed her gratitude to her family, particularly her supportive husband.

Finally, Lowe thanked Madam Maimunah Mohd Sharif for the special honor she received.

Presently, the Mayor of Banjul City Council is in Azerbaijan to participate in the World Habitat Day.

World Habitat Day, marking the commencement of Urban October, is globally celebrated on the first Monday of October.

It is a month-long observance centered around sustainable urbanization and includes keynote speakers and roundtable discussions on a specific theme.

The inaugural celebration of World Habitat Day occurred in Nairobi, Kenya, in 1986, under the theme “Shelter is my right.”

Gambia Wins The Korea Africa Cup of Nation (KAFCON)

By: Dawda Baldeh

The Korea Africa Cup of Nation (KAFCON) in Korea recently crowned the Gambia community football team champions for the second consecutive year. Their remarkable journey included a decisive 2-0 victory over Zimbabwe on October 2, 2023.

Before reaching the final clash with Zimbabwe, Gambia showcased their dominance by securing wins against Senegal, Gabon, and Kenya during the group stages of the tournament.

KAFCON, a multinational competition, brings together African individuals residing in Korea, uniting them to form teams and participate in this tournament. The goal of KAFCON is to bridge gaps and cultivate stronger relationships within the African community in South Korea.

Nigeria’s President Tinubu Increases Wages as National Strike Looms

By Zackline Colley, as reported by BBC’s Chris Ewokor

Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, has announced a six-month increase in the minimum wage as workers are set to commence an indefinite strike. Unions are advocating for a monthly wage raise to $255 (£210) to cope with the significant surge in the cost of living since Mr. Tinubu assumed office in May.

However, the president’s proposed $32 increase only brings the monthly minimum salary to $70. In addition to this, he has pledged to expedite the deployment of affordable gas-powered buses to alleviate the impact of the recent tripling of fuel prices. This surge in prices was triggered by Mr. Tinubu’s removal of a long-standing fuel subsidy that had kept petrol prices low for decades in Africa’s largest economy.

In June, the country also abandoned its currency peg, allowing it to trade freely, resulting in one of the most significant falls in the naira’s history. This has posed challenges for struggling Nigerians, as already high inflation has escalated due to increased import costs.

In a televised national address commemorating the country’s 63rd year of independence from the UK, President Tinubu outlined measures aimed at easing the current economic hardships. He acknowledged the difficulties faced by the nation and emphasized the necessity of enduring these challenges for a better future.

“There is no joy in seeing the people of this nation shoulder burdens that should have been shed years ago,” Mr. Tinubu said. “I wish today’s difficulties did not exist. But we must endure if we are to reach the good side of our future.”

The 71-year-old reiterated that, although reforms would be painful, they would be worthwhile. The government could now channel the billions saved from the fuel subsidy into projects such as the compressed natural gas bus network.

“We now bear the costs of reaching a future in Nigeria where the abundance and fruits of the nation are fairly shared among all, not hoarded by a select and greedy few,” he said. “A Nigeria where hunger, poverty, and hardship are pushed into the shadows of an ever-fading past.”

Despite the president’s address, the main labor unions, namely the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), have affirmed their commitment to the planned indefinite strike from Tuesday. Union leaders argue that the government has failed to address the suffering caused by the removal of the fuel subsidy. The government has appealed for the strike to be suspended to allow more time for negotiations.

Letter to President Barrow from a concerned citizen

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I am a concerned citizen who wishes nothing for our beloved Gambia, but peace, prosperity and tranquillity.

The video montage making rounds on social media purportedly showing President Adama Barrow in the provinces ranting and vociferously making acerbic remarks directed at Ousainou Darboe, leader of opposition UDP, was not a wise undertaken by the President of the Republic, and I call on him to calm down and focus on the myriad of challenges our country is facing.

I am not a member of UDP; am not aligned with any political party and certainly not holding a brief for Mr Darboe amid President Barrow’s condescending remarks. What I observed in the president’s remarks was anger predicated on ad hominem attacks.

It’s absolutely unnecessary and I call on President Barrow to retract the remarks and apologize. The economic and social conditions of this country are not ideal for the population in any way, shape or form. Living conditions are hard and deplorable and people are tired of making ends meet. The chief architect for providing solace and redress for the Gambian people is none other than the President of the Republic. For him to engage in this kind of outburst is beneath the status of his office.

Let there be peace and harmony all across the Gambian nation: from every hamlet, village and town, let peace prevail!

Musa Bassadi Jawara

MC Cham Jr. Says People Who Linked UDP to Killing of 2 Officers Should Apologize

By: Dawda Baldeh

MC Cham Junior, the nominated councilor for Business and Tailoring in the Kanifing Municipality, has called on those who have associated the United Democratic Party (UDP) with the shooting of two paramilitary officers in September to apologize to the party.

Cham expressed his disappointment with the false claims linking his party to the tragic incident, stating that such “dirty politics” should be avoided.

He argued that the UDP is a peaceful political party fighting for the freedom of the country and, therefore, it deserves an apology from those who accused them wrongly.

“Since the shooting incident occurred, many people pointed fingers at the United Democratic Party (UDP), which is not true,” Cham said in a WhatsApp audio message.

Mr. Cham emphasized that the UDP, which has the country’s best interests at heart, does not want anything that would harm the country.

Highlighting the party’s reputation, Cham stated that even during the time of exiled President Jammeh, these allegations towards the UDP did not occur.

He urged people to refrain from tarnishing the party’s reputation by spreading audio and video claims without evidence.

Cham emphasized that anyone with proof against the party should take the matter to court.

To Cham, these allegations are politically motivated and aimed at damaging the party’s reputation among citizens.

Consequently, Cham argued that linking the incident to UDP was the reason behind supporters being questioned and detained.

“The government spokesperson made false allegations, whereby he should have faced charges for disseminating misinformation but he was never charged,” he said.

Moreover, Cham contradicted claims made on social media that UDP supporters were pleased with the incident, stating that this was completely false and a result of the National People’s Party’s decline in relevance.

“During the mayoral and chairmanship elections, a woman in disguise made tribal remarks against a particular tribe claiming to be a supporter of UDP, which was false because she was a supporter of the National People’s Party.

Cham concluded by urging the UDP leadership to take legal action against anyone making baseless accusations against the party in the future.

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