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Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda Announces Urgent Fire Safety Reforms Following Sandika Market Fires

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

In the wake of two devastating fires that ravaged parts of the Sandika Market in Serekunda and Latrikunda, Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda has unveiled a series of urgent fire safety measures aimed at preventing future tragedies in local markets. The incidents, which resulted in the destruction of 13 local sheds and 9 kiosks, prompted swift action from the council and its partners.

Addressing the public during a press conference alongside Market Management and the Municipal Police, Mayor Bensouda expressed his relief that the fires did not result in any casualties.

“First of all, I thank Allah that no lives were lost or injuries reported,” he said. “Secondly, I thank the proactive efforts of the Market Management led by Modou Njie, the valiant efforts of the Municipal Police led by Sainey Sanyang, and the tireless efforts by the Gambia Fire and Rescue Services personnel for fighting and overcoming the blaze. I also thank the community members living in the respective areas for their selfless intervention with buckets of water.”

Following a thorough assessment of both incidents, Mayor Bensouda emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing fire risks in market environments. “We have established that the council, with its sister partners, must act in coordination to mitigate the risks associated with fire in markets,” he stated.

To that end, Mayor Bensouda announced several key actions taken by KMC over the past week:

  1. Deployment of Fire Extinguishers:
    A total of 44 fire extinguishers have been distributed across all 17 municipal markets, three council establishments, and among Municipal Police and Market Management first responders to enhance emergency response capacity.

  2. Enhanced Security Presence:
    Seventeen additional municipal officers have been deployed to markets, supplementing the existing 112 personnel already stationed across the council’s market network.

  3. Market Debris Clearance and Relocation Plans:
    The council has cleared all debris from the Sandika Market and, in consultation with vendors, agreed to relocate the market. “We have met with all Sandika vendors and have agreed that the Sandika must be relocated,” the Mayor announced.

  4. Mandatory Fire Safety Training:
    All council officers are now required to undergo firefighting training and receive Fire Marshal certification from HG Company. “All officers must be certified as Fire Marshals… with immediate effect,” Bensouda emphasized.

  5. Joint Task Force with NAWEC:
    In a bid to address concerns about electrical safety, KMC has established a joint task force with the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) to inspect illegal wiring in markets and provide training to the council’s electricians on sustainable and safe installations.

This renewed collaboration with NAWEC follows a recent resolution between the two institutions after an earlier disagreement regarding the cause of the Sandika fire. Both parties have since committed to working together to improve fire safety in public spaces.

Mayor Bensouda concluded his address with words of solidarity for those affected: “We sympathize once more with the victims affected and assure them of our continued dedication to their wellbeing and safety.”

The announcement marks a proactive shift in the municipality’s approach to disaster preparedness, reinforcing KMC’s commitment to market safety and public welfare.

Supreme Court to Hear Yankuba Touray’s Murder Appeal and Other Key Cases

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

The Office of the Chief Justice has announced that the Supreme Court of The Gambia will hold a session in Banjul from the 7th to the 10th of April 2025. The session, presided over by His Lordship the Chief Justice Hassan B. Jallow, will involve several key cases.

Among the matters to be addressed, the Court will deliver its judgment on the case of Yankuba Touray vs. the State, concerning Touray’s conviction for the murder of former Minister Koro Ceesay. Additionally, the Court will rule on the case of Kanifing Municipal Council vs. The Ministry of Regional Government, Religious Affairs and Lands and others, which involves allegations of improper interference in the management of the Council.

Other significant cases to be heard during the session include a challenge to the practice of female circumcision (Almami Gibba and others vs. The Attorney General), a dispute regarding the 2025 Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure of the State (Sait Matty Jaw and others vs. The Clerk of the National Assembly and others), and a challenge to the constitutionality of the Commission of Inquiry (Amendment Act) 2023 (Lamin Dabo and others vs. The Attorney General and Clerk of the National Assembly).

The Judicial Secretary, Ms. Kumba Mboge, emphasized the importance of attendance, stating, “All litigants, their counsel, and representatives are required to attend their respective sessions on time.”

This session marks a crucial period in the judicial process as several high-profile cases take center stage. All parties involved are expected to be present for the proceedings.

Fact Check False: The Price of Rice and Sugar Has Not Been Reduced

By Dawda Baldeh

Claim: The price of rice in The Gambia ranges from D1,700 to D1,900, while sugar was priced at D2,600 before Ramadan but dropped to D2,400 during Ramadan.

Verdict: False. President Adama Barrow’s assertion that the price of rice in The Gambia is between D1,700 and D1,900 and that sugar was D2,600 before Ramadan and dropped to D2,400 during Ramadan is incorrect.

Full Text:

On March 30, 2025, during an address to Muslim elders in Banjul at the State House, Gambian President Adama Barrow stated that the price of a bag of rice was between D1,700 and D1,900 and that the cost of a bag of sugar had decreased from D2,600 to D2,400.

The claim was made between 53 to 54 minutes in a 1:01:31 video livestream on Kerr Fatou online media.

This remark was made during his Eid speech to Banjul Muslim elders, a customary gathering organised by the head of state on Eid day following Ramadan.

Verification:

The Fatu Network carried out a random investigation into rice prices across various regions of the country to confirm the validity of the claim.

Momodou Jallow, a shopkeeper in Brikamaba, a rural area in the Central River Region, reported that a 50-kg bag of rice cost between D2,300 and D2,350, while a 50-kg bag of sugar was priced between D2,650 and D2,600 during Ramadan.

Jallow attributed the price rise to factors such as transportation expenses and the inflation of the CFA.

In Farafenni, a town in the North Bank Region, the price of American rice was noted to be between D2,250 and D2,400, significantly higher than the D1,700–D1,900 range mentioned by the president.

“During Ramadan, I purchased five bags of 50kg rice for D11,250, each costing D2,250.

Sugar in Farafenni is priced at D2,700, which is quite high,” stated Modou Gaye, a resident of Farafenni.

However, our investigation found that the lowest price for a 50kg bag of rice currently available in The Gambia is D2,000, which surpasses the price range indicated by the president.

Jah Oil, a major Gambian-owned oil company engaged in large-scale rice production through Jah Agro Farm, sells their locally produced rice at a wholesale price of D2,000 and a retail price of D2,050.

Accordingly, a 50-kg bag of American rice, the most widely consumed rice in the E country, is presently priced between D2,250 and D2,350 and can even reach D2,400 in some areas.

In January, Jah Agro Farm imported rice from India, offering it at wholesale prices of D1,950 and retail prices of D2,000.

Although Jah Oil has expressed plans to lower the price of rice to between D1,500 and D1,700, this reduction has not yet occurred, as locally produced rice is not yet available in the market.

Our investigation indicated that even in the Greater Banjul Area, the cheapest 50kg bag of rice costs at least D2,000, while 50kg of sugar is priced at D2,700.

On March 1, 2025, The Alkamba Times, a Gambian online news outlet, published an article highlighting public frustration over price increases at the start of Ramadan.

“Last year, a 50kg bag of rice was around D1,600. Today, it’s nearing D2,300,” remarked Alpha Jallow, a rice trader, as reported by The Alkamba Times.

Conclusion:

The assertion that the price of rice in The Gambian markets is currently between D1,700 and D1,900 and that sugar was at D2,600 before Ramadan and dropped to D2,400 during the holy month is false as this doesn’t reflect reality on the market when prices of basic commodities continue to skyrocket.

Wuli West NAM Denies Allegations of Ritualistic Slaughter of 50 Goats for Personal Gain

By: Alieu Jallow

The National Assembly Member (NAM) for Wuli West, Nfamara Sabally, has strongly denied allegations circulating on social media that he was involved in the ritualistic slaughter of 50 goats for personal gain. Speaking in a telephone interview with The Fatu Network, the lawmaker described the claims as false and politically motivated attempts to tarnish his image.

According to Sabally, the goats were part of a charitable initiative by HMD, a humanitarian organization that provides food aid to underprivileged families. He explained that the initiative, now in its second year, aims to support vulnerable communities with rice, sugar, cash, and meat, especially during religious celebrations. “The organization expanded its support this year, reaching seven communities. Many families struggle to afford basic necessities, including meat. So, in collaboration with HMD Charitable Organization, we arranged for these goats to be distributed to the needy,” he said. Sabally’s claim was confirmed by the charitable organization.

He clarified that the animals were placed under the care of local alkalos (village heads) before being slaughtered and distributed to families, stressing that they refrained from handing the goats directly to the beneficiaries out of concern that they might sell them. “If you sell the goat and keep the money, the family won’t benefit. That’s why we ensure the meat is given directly to them,” he added.

The legislator alleged that his accuser, Lamin Fatty, was politically motivated, claiming that Fatty, who belongs to the opposition PDOIS party, was deliberately trying to damage his reputation. “This same individual, whose wife I personally helped with food supplies during Ramadan, is now leading this smear campaign,” he stated. He also highlighted HMD’s contributions to the constituency, including building six houses for families displaced by disasters, asking, “Why are these good deeds not being mentioned?”

Dismissing claims that foreigners were involved in the process, he reiterated his commitment to serving his people. “Today, I am a National Assembly Member, but tomorrow, only God knows what will happen. My focus is to finish my term in peace and continue working for my people.” The lawmaker called on the public to disregard the allegations, emphasizing that his only intention was to assist those in need.

KMC and NAWEC Move Past Blame Game to Tackle Fire Safety Together

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

The Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) and the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) have engaged in discussions following a recent dispute over the cause of the fire at Serrekunda Sandika Market.

In the aftermath of the March 31 fire, KMC initially suggested that an electrical spark caused the blaze, prompting NAWEC to issue a strong denial, stating that the affected area had no NAWEC services. The company urged KMC to fact-check before assigning blame.

Now, in a significant development, representatives from both institutions have met to discuss fire safety concerns in local markets. According to KMC, the meeting—led by its Director of Administration—focused on enhancing collaboration, conducting safety assessments, and implementing preventive strategies to mitigate future risks.

Following the meeting, KMC stated, “Both parties emphasized their strong commitment to the partnership and pledged to prioritize joint efforts in ensuring the safety and well-being of residents.”

NAWEC, which had previously distanced itself from responsibility for the Sandika Market fire, also affirmed its willingness to collaborate, stating, “This cooperation sets a foundation for ongoing collaboration and collective action in addressing fire safety concerns and promoting public welfare.”

This engagement marks a shift from the earlier dispute, highlighting the need for cooperative efforts in addressing fire safety challenges in public spaces.

GAP Advocates Immediate Ban on Betting, Highlights Negative Impacts

By: Dawda Baldeh

As gambling increasingly becomes a popular pursuit among young people seeking quick wealth, concerns have emerged regarding its detrimental effects, which are linked to family conflicts, financial losses, addiction, and crime among the youth.

The opposition Gambia Action Party (GAP) has called for an immediate ban on betting, citing its harmful effects on the younger population. In a statement, GAP leader Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly urged the government to reinstate the ban to protect the youth.

“I urge you, President Barrow, to take swift action to address the alarming and damaging consequences of betting and gambling on our society, especially on young people,” he stated.

Batchilly criticized the legalization and spread of betting establishments, noting that they are rapidly eroding moral values, increasing crime rates, harming families, and negatively affecting academic performance.

On March 2, 2015, former President Yahya Jammeh prohibited all forms of gambling in the country. “All operators of these services and establishments are hereby directed to cease operations from the effective date,” a statement from the State House indicated. The government condemned the gaming industry as “exploitative” and stated that the ban would safeguard the youth from becoming “a generation of compulsive and addicted gamblers.”

However, in March 2017, just months after taking office, President Barrow lifted the ban on betting. GAP characterized this decision as a grave mistake that must be rectified immediately.

“Now even children under 18 are actively participating in betting and other forms of gambling,” Batchilly remarked. “This poses not only a threat to their future but also to the stability and progress of our nation. The increase in crime rates, financial irresponsibility, and addiction among the youth is linked to betting,” he added.

Batchilly further linked the rise of gambling to the growing number of school dropouts. “Betting and other forms of gambling are significant contributors to crime, theft, and indiscipline,” he contended, stressing that the get-rich-quick mentality is causing parents to lose control over their children and fracturing families.

Despite arguments that gambling generates employment and economic benefits for gamblers and revenue for the government, GAP contended that its long-term negative effects far outweigh any short-term economic gains. “A nation’s advancement is determined by the strength and integrity of its people, not by an industry that thrives on exploitation and despair,” Batchilly asserted.

Recently, the National Assembly Members for Basse and Serrekunda also expressed concerns over the growing number of betting companies in the country and called for government intervention to prevent gambling from harming the youth.

“The government must prioritize the well-being of its citizens, especially the youth, by enacting strict laws to shield them from this destructive habit. The time to act is now before we lose an entire generation to the dangers of gambling,” one of them explained.

“I Don’t Have Time to Discuss Corruption in Barrow’s Administration,” Kandeh Tells Journalists to Focus on GDC Initiatives

By: Dawda Baldeh

Mama Kandeh, leader of the opposition Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC), has declared that he will not address accusations of corruption within President Adama Barrow’s administration. Instead, he urged journalists to engage him solely on his party’s plans for the nation.

Kandeh expressed these views during his recent annual Eid gathering with the GDC council of elders in Ketty. A vocal critic of President Barrow’s government, he stated that he currently has no time for the administration.

“I’m focused on formulating solutions for the country,” he remarked, emphasizing that his efforts are directed towards future objectives. “I don’t have time to speak about President Barrow; I don’t have time to discuss corruption. My time is dedicated to addressing the nation’s issues. The only topic I am willing to discuss is how I can contribute to the development of this country. Please do not ask me about corruption or Barrow,” he stressed.

Kandeh contended that everyone in the country is aware of what he refers to as the pervasive corruption within the government. “We all recognize the challenges we are facing,” he stated.

In response to the U.S. government freezing USAID to several countries, the GDC leader remarked that this serves as a wake-up call for all leaders to take action and initiate self-reliance. “Many people are crying over Trump’s decision to freeze aid to us. This is an opportunity for us to become self-sufficient and develop our nation. America was not built by chance; it was built by people, and we can achieve the same,” he argued.

He also mentioned that if elected, he would revitalize the agricultural sector to ensure food production for the country. “I will not promise anyone that I will lower the price of rice imported from other nations. We can only reduce prices if we cultivate our own rice and consume it. We will modernize the agricultural sector to attract farmers,” he pointed out.

Kandeh further asserted that conflicts in Ukraine, Palestine, or elsewhere should not be a reason for Gambians to suffer from hunger. “We have the land and water available to grow what we need to eat,” he explained.

He noted that although Gambia is quite small, no one is homeless. “America is a developed country, yet it has hundreds of thousands of homeless individuals. Do we question why they are providing us with funds while leaving their homeless citizens behind? They have an agenda that needs to be scrutinized,” he argued.

He cautioned that Gambia should not continue to depend on donors for its development.

President Barrow Hands Over Buses and Tractors to Gambia Armed Forces

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

President Adama Barrow has handed over five buses and five tractors to the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) in a ceremony at the State House.

“Guided by the National Development Agenda, my government is committed to advancing the human resources of our nation,” President Barrow said. He described the security sector as “one of the critical areas towards realizing the NDP, YIRIWA objectives,” emphasizing the role of GAF and other security forces in maintaining peace and stability.

The president highlighted the importance of creating a conducive work environment for security personnel, stating, “We are determined that the transformations in the Security sector align with the democratic values we desire for our dear Gambia.” He added, “We strive for peace, security, and stability to reign parallel with other developments of our country.”

Explaining the purpose of the donations, President Barrow stated, “Today’s presentations are twofold: five buses to ease transportation and ensure punctuality of officers, along with five tractors to support the Agriculture initiative of the Gambia Armed Forces.”

He further emphasized the significance of engaging officers in productive activities, particularly in agriculture. “Our determination to have a peaceful country warrants us to seek alternative engagements for our officers during peacetime,” he said. He added that the agricultural initiative would “create basic produce for officers, improve their nutrition as well as make them more self-reliant in achieving sustained food security.”

Encouraging the officers to take proper care of the equipment, President Barrow urged, “I urge you to make best use of both the buses and tractors to ensure durability.”

Concluding his speech, he officially handed over the equipment, stating, “With these few remarks, I now hand over five buses and five tractors to the Gambia Armed Forces.”

“The Truck Does Not Belong to Jah Oil” – Manager Clarifies Company’s Role in Fatal Explosion at Navy Base

By: Dawda Baldeh

Momodou Hydara, the General Manager of Jah Oil Company, has spoken out following the deadly fuel explosion at the Gambia Navy Base in Banjul that resulted in two fatalities. Mr. Hydara informed reporters at the company’s headquarters in Brikama that the truck involved in the incident does not belong to Jah Oil, countering prevalent rumors. He explained that the truck was contracted to transport fuel to the Navy depot.

“It’s important to clarify this because there are many rumors circulating,” he stated, noting that they have been hiring trucks for such deliveries. He added, “They were utilizing a diesel pumping machine to transfer the fuel. We have been doing this for years without any problems. When petrol is discharged, it releases high vapor into the air, and any small flame that ignites that vapor can lead back to the source and cause an explosion.” He speculated that the fire likely started somewhere nearby.

Hydara mentioned that the driver they typically hire for fuel deliveries is experienced, but he had entrusted the truck to someone else. “Unfortunately, on this occasion, he was not the one driving the truck when the explosion occurred. Sources indicate that the individual driving was inexperienced in fuel transportation. Perhaps he did not follow all safety precautions,” Hydara elaborated.

Despite the conjectures regarding the fire’s origin, Hydara suggested that it could have been ignited by someone smoking nearby, a spark from a bulb, friction from metal wires, or even the use of a water heater. He also dismissed claims that a generator was in use during the fuel discharge. “I have seen people on social media claiming that a generator caused the fire. There was no generator present,” he clarified.

He disclosed that they consistently implement safety measures. “We always ensure that any hired vehicle is suitable and safe for transporting fuel. We inspected this truck, and it was in full working order. However, the issue arose when the driver we hired handed the truck over to someone else,” he added.

Regrettably, the driver later succumbed to injuries sustained in the accident. “There are many uncertainties. One possibility is that the driver lacked knowledge about petroleum products. He sustained his injuries because he was seated in the truck’s cabin at the time of the incident, according to sources,” he stressed. According to Mr. Hydara, the driver was in the cabin while the fuel was being discharged. “You are prohibited from using any electronic devices, including mobile phones, or even turning on the vehicle dashboard,” he pointed out.

When asked if the company would accept responsibility for the incident, Hydara replied, “We will await the final report. Then we will assess the situation. If negligence caused the incident, the responsible party will be held accountable, but if it is on our part, we will take responsibility.” “Assuming 100% responsibility for something without conclusive evidence is something no reasonable person would do,” he emphasized. He urged the public to allow the investigation to proceed and uncover the facts.

The Jah Oil MD also extended the company’s condolences to the victims’ families. “At the Banjul hospital, we were informed that the injuries could be treated, but we inquired about specialized care. We were directed to Dakar, and we promptly arranged for an ambulance to transport the patient there, as he suffered 50% burns. We will cover the expenses until he fully recovers. We are heartbroken,” he reassured. He also mentioned plans to assist in relocating the navy tank to an underground facility at no cost to enhance safety. He noted that they have been supporting the victims and that any continued support for their families will not be publicized through the media.

Leadership, Accountability, and the Role of the Media in National Development

Eid-ul-Fitr is a sacred occasion that brings people together in the spirit of unity, peace, and reflection. It is a time when leaders, both political and religious, should engage in meaningful dialogue on national progress and societal well-being. However, when such meetings are reduced to comparisons of past regimes rather than focusing on pressing national issues, the opportunity for constructive engagement is lost.

Every administration in The Gambia, past and present, has had its share of successes and setbacks. Leadership is not about dwelling on the past but rather about learning from it to build a better future. President Adama Barrow must recognize that governance is a continuous process that requires learning, tolerance, and proactive decision-making. Instead of fixating on criticisms from the opposition and political opponents, he should focus on addressing the economic struggles, security concerns, and social challenges affecting Gambians daily. A leader who listens to criticism with an open mind is one who paves the way for national development.

Citizens have the constitutional right to express their opinions and critique government policies. Constructive criticism should not be seen as an attack but rather as a tool for improvement. Democracy thrives when leaders are held accountable, and governance should not be reduced to personal grievances or political rivalries.

Furthermore, the media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception and fostering informed decision-making. Journalists and media houses must exercise responsible journalism, ensuring that their reports are factual, unbiased, and geared towards national interest. While the media should not be silenced or intimidated, it must also uphold ethical standards and avoid sensationalism or misinformation that could incite division.

The Gambia must move forward by fostering a culture of dialogue, accountability, and national interest above partisan politics. Religious leaders should use such occasions to advise the government on policies that affect the people rather than engaging in discussions that add little value to national progress. Political leadership should focus on uniting the country and working towards sustainable development rather than engaging in unnecessary political debates.

A progressive nation is built on collective responsibility, where leaders govern with wisdom, citizens engage constructively, and the media serves as a bridge for information and accountability. It is time for The Gambia to embrace leadership that is forward-thinking, inclusive, and dedicated to the well-being of its people.

Servant Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly
Secretary General and Party Leader
Gambia Action Party (GAP).

Dr. Ismaila Ceesay Delivers President Barrow’s Eid Message, Emphasizing Peace and National Unity

By: Michaella Faith Wright

On Coffee Time on April 1st, Minister of Information Dr. Ismaila Ceesay delivered President Adama Barrow’s Eid message, extending warm greetings to all Gambians. He prayed for peace, prosperity, and the acceptance of supplications by Almighty Allah, while also reminding citizens of their responsibility to uphold national unity.

Speaking on behalf of the President, Dr. Ismaila Ceesay emphasized the significance of peace and stability in The Gambia, noting that while the country enjoys harmony, many nations—particularly Muslim-majority ones—face challenges that disrupt their celebrations.
“The President’s message is a reminder to every citizen of their responsibility to maintain the peace we have. There are other countries that could not enjoy their Eid day, and most of them are Muslim nations,” Dr. Ceesay stated.

Addressing concerns about the inclusion of different religious groups in national events, Dr. Ceesay reiterated that The Gambia is a secular state and, as such, all religious groups are treated equally.

“Last year, the Ahmadiyya community was included in the program, alternating with the Lebanese delegation,” he explained. “There is no policy that marginalizes any religious group. At the Office of the President, invitations are sent out, and it is the invited organizations that determine their representation.”

He also noted that while women-led groups may not have been in the initial delegations, they are part of the broader national representation and may be included in subsequent engagements.

Dr. Ceesay described the President’s Eid message as one of his most significant, urging Gambians to appreciate the peace and unity they enjoy and to remain committed to strengthening the country’s social cohesion.

President Barrow Assesses D40m Market Damage; Government Awaits Official Report

By: Dawda Baldeh

Gambian President Adama Barrow visited markets in Brikama, Latrikunda, and Serrekunda on Tuesday to assess the impact of several fire incidents that have reduced hundreds of shops to ashes. The visit is part of ongoing efforts to gather information on the damage and identify solutions to support victims and address the issue. Internal preliminary findings report an estimated damage of forty million dalasis (D40m).

Speaking to reporters at the scene, President Barrow acknowledged the extent of the destruction caused by the fires and expressed his sympathy for the victims. He was informed that the damage in Brikama market is estimated at fifteen million dalasis (D15m), five million dalasis (D5m) in Latrikunda, and twenty million dalasis (D20m) in Serrekunda market, respectively. Despite these preliminary estimates, President Barrow noted that his government is awaiting the official report from the investigation.

“The best way forward is to relocate the ‘Sandikas’ because the markets are congested. Accessibility is a problem in the markets,” he stated. The head of state also reaffirmed his government’s commitment to addressing such incidents. “The people affected are Gambians, and we cannot just stand by. My government will do everything possible to support them,” he added.

President Barrow further urged the public to remain vigilant and take preventive measures against such occurrences. “The markets are not organized at all, and that falls under the responsibility of the local councils; they are selling food items. This is not the best approach,” he stressed, noting that the long-term solution is to modernize the markets. “We will need to modernize the markets to meet international standards,” he said.

He also called on local government councils to work together with the central government for the country’s progress. This visit comes in the wake of repeated fire incidents in Brikama, Latrikunda, and Serrekunda that have left many shop owners in distress. During the visit, store owners and market leaders highlighted the urgent need for support for the victims.

‘I Have Lost Faith I Could Walk the Streets Without Being Abducted’: Momodou Taal to Leave U.S.

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

Momodou Taal, a Cornell University doctoral candidate from The Gambia, has voluntarily decided to leave the U.S. after a judge rejected his request to block his deportation. Taal’s student visa was revoked due to his involvement in pro-Palestinian protests, which U.S. officials deemed disruptive and harmful to the campus environment.

On social media, Taal expressed, “I have lost faith I could walk the streets without being abducted,” explaining his decision to leave the U.S. He had also faced backlash for his statements following the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, including tweets like “colonised peoples have the right to resist by any means necessary” and “Glory to the resistance!”

In response to the criticism of his remarks, Taal previously told CNN in November 2023, “I think it’s quite racist, Islamophobic that before I’m allowed to have a view on genocide, I have to condemn a terrorist organization.”

He added, “I can say clearly categorically I abhor the killing of all civilians no matter where they are and who does it.” His attorney also voiced concern over the treatment of Taal, asking, “What is America if people like Momodou are not welcome here?”

Fatoumata A. Jobe’s Journey as The Gambia’s Top Female Barber

By Michaella Faith Wright

In a profession traditionally dominated by men, Fatoumata A. Jobe has established herself as one of The Gambia’s finest barbers. With three years in the industry, her passion for barbering has driven her to overcome challenges and skepticism, turning her dream into reality.

For Fatoumata, barbering is more than just a profession—it’s a culture and a passion that has shaped her career. However, the journey has not been without obstacles. In a society where seeing a young female barber was once unheard of, she faced skepticism and doubt. Many questioned her abilities before giving her a chance, but she remained focused on her goal, believing that talent would always triumph over doubt.

“At first, people found it funny that a woman could be a barber. It was tough, but I chose to focus on the destination, not the journey. That mindset has brought me this far,” she shared.

Despite the hurdles, Fatoumata has become a rising star in the industry, earning the trust of her clients and proving that women can thrive in any profession they are passionate about. Her dream of being the best female barber in the country is slowly coming to life.

Balancing her career with her other profession as a teacher, she acknowledges that teaching alone cannot pay the bills, which is why she remains dedicated to barbering. She credits her boss for his unwavering support and belief in her talent, vowing to make him proud.

To young women aspiring to break into the barbering industry, Fatoumata offers words of encouragement: “If you have a passion for barbering, pursue it, love it, and never let doubt stop you.”

Youssou Ndour’s Korité Message: Forgiveness and Gratitude for Support After Recent Losses

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

During the Korité prayer at the Massalikoul Djinane mosque in Dakar, Senegalese artist and businessman Youssou Ndour spoke about forgiveness and gratitude. He asked for forgiveness from those he may have wronged and sought divine mercy, while also stating that he has forgiven everyone.

“I ask forgiveness from anyone I may have hurt. I also ask God to forgive me if I have offended someone,” he said. Ndour also thanked the Senegalese people for their support following the recent passing of his collaborator Jimmy Mbaye and his father, El Hadji Elimane Ndour.

“KMC, Fact-Check Before Apportioning Blame” – NAWEC Maintains It Is Not Responsible for Serrekunda Sandika Market Fire

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

The National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) has reiterated that it is not responsible for the fire that erupted at the Serrekunda Sandika Market early Monday morning, stating that the location where the incident occurred has no NAWEC services.

In a follow-up statement issued on Monday, NAWEC addressed the claims made by the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC), which had initially stated that an electrical spark caused a vendor shed to catch fire, affecting 13 sheds known as “Mbarr.” KMC also announced plans to engage NAWEC regarding the matter.

However, NAWEC has firmly denied any involvement. In an earlier statement, the company asserted that its initial assessment found no faults or irregularities in its network at the time of the fire. Now, in its latest communication, NAWEC has gone further, confirming that the affected area does not even have NAWEC services.

“KMC, fact-check before apportioning blame,” NAWEC stated, while also expressing sympathy for those affected by the fire.

As investigations continue, further details are expected to emerge regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Military Burial for Navy Officer Richard Mendy Killed in Fuel Tanker Explosion

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

The Gambia Armed Forces held a military burial for fallen Navy Officer Richard Mendy in Foni Besse earlier today. Mendy was one of two victims of a fuel tanker explosion at the Banjul naval base on March 28.

The ceremony, attended by Defense Minister Shering Modou Njie and senior officials, included a 21-gun salute and the Last Post. Mendy had been on duty that night while four others were injured. Minister Njie pledged an investigation into the incident.

Suspect Arrested in Dippa Kunda Kidnapping

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

ASP Modou Musa Sisawo, Police Public Relations Officer, has confirmed the arrest of a suspect in connection with the alleged kidnapping of 11-year-old Samuel Mendy from Dippa Kunda.

“Following sustained surveillance and operational efforts, a suspect was arrested on the morning of Saturday, 29th March,” he stated.

The child was rescued unharmed, underwent a medical examination confirming he had no injuries, and has since been reunited with his family.

NAWEC Denies Responsibility for Serrekunda Sandika Market Fire

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

Following the fire that erupted at the Serrekunda Sandika Market early Monday morning, The Gambia’s National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) has denied claims that the incident was caused by an electrical spark from its infrastructure.

In the early morning hours, after the fire had started, the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) stated that an electrical spark had ignited a local vendor shed, affecting 13 sheds known as “Mbarr.” The Council confirmed that emergency responders had extinguished the blaze, and announced plans to engage NAWEC regarding the incident.

However, in a subsequent press release, NAWEC pushed back against any claim that it was at fault for the fire. The company stated that its initial assessment found no faults or irregularities in its network at the time of the incident. “Our systems were functioning normally, with no reported power surges or irregularities in the area,” NAWEC said, adding that the allegation that its infrastructure caused the fire was “unfounded.”

The utility provider expressed willingness to work with KMC to determine the true cause and improve fire safety measures. As investigations continue, more details are expected to emerge regarding the circumstances surrounding the fire.

Pictured: Gallo Saidy, NAWEC MD.

Fire at Serrekunda Sandika Market Caused by Electrical Spark?

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

A fire erupted at the Serrekunda Sandika Market in The Gambia early Sunday morning, affecting several local vendor sheds. According to officials, the blaze began around 2:30 a.m. and was brought under control by emergency responders.

The Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) has since confirmed that the incident was caused by an electrical spark and affected 13 local vendor sheds known as “Mbarr.” “An electrical spark caused a Local Vendor shed to catch fire at the Serekunda Sandika affecting 13 local sheds ‘Mbarr’. Fire and rescue were at the scene and the blaze has been totally quenched,” the Council stated in an official communication.

The Council emphasized that “No Market structures were affected at the Sandika” and announced plans to address the incident with the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC). More will be reported on this situation as additional information comes to light.

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