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Sohm, Faraba Sutu reconcile following 2 years of enmity

Hadram Hydara
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Sohm, Faraba Sutu reconcile following 2 years of enmity

By: Alieu Jallow

Sohm and Faraba Sutu in the Kombo East District held a reconciliation meeting two weeks ago following two years of rivalry.

The villages of Sohm and Faraba Sutu, both in the Kombo East District, have reconciled following two years of rivalry. The two villages had a peaceful coexistence until the 2020/2021 Kombo East District tournament when fans from both villages clashed, leading to property damage and the hospitalization of over twenty people. This incident stained their previously harmonious relationship despite sharing boundaries, intermarriage, and businesses.

In an interview with The Fatu Network, Secretary Alagie Jarju of the Sohm Sports Association and Village Development Committee emphasized the importance of using football as a symbol of unity and peace worldwide.

“The reunion is very important, and every citizen needs to respect and uphold the principle of peaceful coexistence because as neighbours, we need to come together to work for the best [interest] of the two communities and nation at large,” Mr Jarju said.

Meanwhile, Lamin A. Jarju, Alkalo of Sohm, highlighted the responsibility of the two young leaders in resolving the community feud and the need to devise mechanisms for finding possible remedies to community crises. He also noted that the massive development underway in the environs would make it hard to identify the boundaries between the two villages.

“We did it to set an example that violence has no place in the Gambia. There is no development with violence, so we can’t develop without reconciling and we did it purposely for people to know that without it there can’t be any meaningful development”.

Jarju further stressed that dialogue is essential in resolving community conflicts.

Alieu Sanyang, the Alkalo for Faraba Sutu, stated that it would be naive to fall for hypocrisy. As he and his counterpart are in constant communication and meetings, saying it was wise to spearhead the reconciliation for today and the future.

Sanyang quickly outlined plans for a road rehabilitation project that connects the two communities. He called on community leaders to resolve feuds.

“In any development, one must take the lead. In this process, I had to call my counterpart for us to sit and discuss ways forward on this issue. So, let’s other Alkalolu and communities take the lead.”

The reconciliation process took shape in the form of a football match where over five hundred spectators drummed, danced and cheered their teams in a game that both anticipated for more than two years.

It appears that instead of resting, the match was followed by a night carnival to help them cope with the agony and grief caused by the many community conflicts in Gambian society, including those based on tribal, caste, political, and land encroachment issues.

Sare Nyebeh: A village without clean drinking water for over 30 years

Hadram Hydara
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Sare Nyebeh: A village without clean drinking water for over 30 years

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

For over 30 years, the villagers of Sare Nyebeh in The Gambia have been without clean drinking water, relying on a single, mostly unclean well and often have to walk over 1.5 kilometres to neighbouring villages to fetch water, mostly done by women.

The village residents, mostly Fulas of different dialects, depend heavily on wells for domestic work and provide drinking water for their cattle herds as they are all herders and farmers.

Speaking to The Fatu Network, Abdoulie Baldeh, a native of the village, said they have been suffering for over three decades with only one well which is mostly unclean and unsafe to drink from.

“We are facing a lot of problems when it comes to water and accessing clean drinking water in our village. The whole issue is that there is only one well in the village, and this well was duck in the 1970s.

“And the well is too deep and most of the time rocks will be stuck in the well. And when such things happen, we will realize there is no other option,” Mr Baldeh told The Fatu Network.

According to him, most of the time, women in the village use horse and donkey carts with gallons to fetch water from the neighbouring village for household use. He lamented the hardships faced by them in the village.

“So, what we do is to go to the neighbouring village that’s Njoben, about two kilometres away from our village. The villagers will use a horse cart to carry gallons to the neighbouring village for water. It is definitely not easy with us here.

“We need help. And in many instances, animals will die in there and when that happens, there will be water odour. The villagers will then abandon the well and start heading to the neighbouring villages for water,” he explained.

The village has nine compounds, however, the population in the village exceeded the number of compounds due to extended families.

According to Mr Baldeh, the village has been seeking help even from their National Assembly Member in the Lower Fulladu West Constituency, but to no avail.

The villagers, without even a single public school, are seeking help from philanthropists to help them with a borehole in the village to help them have access to clean drinkable water.

Old Mai seeks support after windstorm blew her house down

Hadram Hydara
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Old Mai seeks support after windstorm blew her house down

By: Alieu Jallow

During a visit to Jako in Foni Bintang, The Fatu Network met Mai Gibba, an elderly woman whose already dilapidated house was destroyed by a windstorm two months ago, and she is now in dire need of shelter and food.

Mai has not received any assistance since the incident. Her only son embarked on an irregular migration route to Italy years ago, and he has not been found. Her house was severely damaged by the windstorm, and she has sought shelter in the nearby neighbourhoods.

The old woman’s unsustainable roasted groundnut business has left her isolated and discriminated against, and she’s eagerly awaiting assistance.

“I struggle hard to put food on my table because I used to sell roasted groundnut but due to price hikes, I can’t afford it anymore”.

The Gambia has been hit by windstorms for the past two years. The government has provided relief aid and renovated some homes for rural communities affected by disasters, but more needs to be done for the whole country.

Unfortunately, until The Fatu Network visited her, Mai’s predicament had not received attention. Support can significantly improve her deplorable condition and contribute to her well-being and comfort.

“I am seeking feeding support and to return home from anyone around the world”.

She is asking the public and philanthropists to help her return home.

*Anyone wishing to support her can reach out to The Fatu Network on + 3802391/ 220 274 3275 or +1 770-866-8639*

Nominated youth rep’s swearing-in delayed due to late submission of papers — BAC chairman

Hadram Hydara
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Nominated youth rep’s swearing-in delayed due to late submission of papers — BAC chairman

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

The Brikama Area Council Chairman, Yankuba Darboe, has said that the delay in the swearing-in of the nominated Youth Representative, Binta Senghore, and councillors for the differently abled was due to late submission of their nomination papers to the Ministry of Local Government and Land, and not because of a petition against them from the West Coast Region Youth Committee.

Chairman Darboe said this on Monday, August 20th at an event at the Brikama Area Council building, where the other seven nominated members took their oath to serve their respective interest groups in the Brikama Area Council.

The youth and differently-abled councillors, Binta Senghore and Ndey Saine missed their swearing-in as their nomination papers were confirmed late according to Chairman Darboe, despite claims that their appointments were on hold due to a petition.

“We have two other nominees who are yet to be sworn in, and that is our nominee for youths and the differently abled. We are waiting for confirmation from the ministry [Local Government and Lands] in order to be able to conclude those two, and we are hoping that will happen as soon as possible.

“We were hoping it would happen before this ceremony today, but unfortunately, the nomination papers went in a bit late Friday, and they were not able to deal with it,” Darboe said.

The procedure by which the nominated youth rep was nominated by Yankuba Darboe sparked debate on social media a while back, with many people believing she was only appointed based on her political affiliation.

On Monday, the West Coast Region Youth Committee believed that Binta was not sworn in due to their petition against her nomination by the Brikama Area Council chairman.

When contacted for clarity on the matter, the Public Relations Officer of the Brikama Area Council, Lamin Sighateh, told The Fatu Network that he has no idea about the petition against the nomination of Binta Senghore.

He confirmed that, to his knowledge, the youth rep and differently-abled were not sworn in because they didn’t receive confirmation from the local government and lands. He told TFN that they would be sworn in later.

The Fatu Network tried to reach the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Lands for comments, but all efforts were unsuccessful.

Gambians React to SIS Boss Appointment as Land Minister

Seringe Touray
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Gambians React to SIS Boss Appointment as Land Minister

By: Momodou Jawo

Barely, less than five days after the appointment of Ousman Sowe, former director general of the State Intelligence Service (SIS) as the new Minister of Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs, Gambians have reacted to his appointment with many welcoming the move taken by the president.

Many who spoke to our reporter, which included some senior government officials, claimed that Ousman Sowe, is the “right person to transform the Land Ministry given his zero tolerance to maladministration, corruption, nepotism and his desire for reforms and repositioning and restructuring.”

Until his appointment on Friday by the President as the new Land Minister replacing Abba Sanyang, Ousman Sowe, served as the SIS DG for more than six years. He has equally been credited by many for transforming the SIS to be the premiere intelligence service in the country.

Sowe who holds double masters in Diplomacy and Master in International Politics and Security Studies at Bradford University, U.K once served as Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Fisheries and Deputy Permanent Secretary Office of the President during the former regime.

“To me, this is the best appointment President Barrow has made since he came into power in 2017. Ousman Sowe is not only experienced, but the guy is intelligent and he is a development oriented leader. Despite the many problems confronting that ministry, I am quite optimistic that he will drastically change and reform that ministry. This is the kind of appointment that we expect the president to make,” Lamin Camara, a senior government official said.

Camara further added: “Appointing the right people at the right place will pay dividends which will translate into productivity. For those that don’t know Much about Ousman Sowe, and his style of leadership should look at the SIS now. I can tell you that SIS is not only one of the most reform institutions within the country’s security services, but also other government institutions and departments since the coming of the current government. Just give him some months at the ministry and many land problems in the country will be arrested,” he posited.

A student of MDI studying International Relations who wishes to speak on the condition of anonymity, said: “Ousman Sowe is one of the most educated and experienced Ministers currently in the Barrow government. He (Ousman Sowe) has sometimes taken us classes at the school and we have seen and know what he can offer. If we really want to develop and move this country, then we need the right people to take the mantle of leadership. At first, I was thinking that he only has experience in security. However, when he took us classes, the entire class was surprised due to his outstanding performance and understanding of the subject.”

“For me, I would have loved for him to continue as the DG of SIS because we have seen the changes he made in that place. Now, you don’t hear people being arrested by the SIS agents. It used to be one of the most fearful institutions during the former regime. But all that has now been in the past thanks to his reform agenda. Again, I am confident that if he is given the support at the Land Ministry, we will see changes in that ministry, Bakary Njie, a native of Serrekunda stated.

Biography

Expertise and Skills:

National Peace Affairs, Problem Solving, Analysis, Threat Assessment, Institutional reforms & strengthening, Resources Mobilisation, Regional security/International Relations Affairs, Foreign Policy, Diplomacy, Regional Security/Peace Architectures, National Security Policy/Management, Regional /International Organization, Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Negotiations, Mediation, Representation, Natural Resources & Human Resources Management.

Permanent Secretary Positions Served: Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Fisheries, Deputy Permanent Secretary Office of the President

Academic Qualifications

  • Masters in Diplomacy (Distinction), Sept 2013- June 6th 2014 (University of Malta)
  • MA, International Politics and Security Studies (Bradford University, U.K 2001)
  • BA, Development Studies and English (St. Mary’s University, Canada,1999)
  • Conflict Prevention, Management & Resolution. (UK, 2001)

Academic and Conference Papers Written and Dissertations (Masters Theses)

  • An Analysis of Conflict Prevention in Africa – The African Union’s Peace and Security Architecture (2014)
  • The Challenges to Mediating in Africa’s Complex Conflicts – The cases of OAU, Mozambique and the Gambia (Cassamance Conflict) – M.A. Dissertation 2001

Nigerian-Based Gambian Shipping & Logistics Expert, Ismaila Badjie, Addresses Special Presidential Forum on Enhancing Agro-Export Trade

Seringe Touray
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0
Nigerian-Based Gambian Shipping & Logistics Expert, Ismaila Badjie, Addresses Special Presidential Forum on Enhancing Agro-Export Trade

By: Alagie Cherno Suwareh

During his thirty-minute address at the Multi-Agency Stakeholders’ Enlightenment on Key Reforms of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council as outlined in National Action Plan 7.0 on Agro-Export, Ismaila Badjie, an esteemed expert in shipping and logistics hailing from Gambia and based in Nigeria, underscored several critical points.

He stressed the paramount importance of ensuring a steady supply of foreign exchange for exporters, promoting further digitalization within the export sector, and advocated for the establishment of a streamlined one-stop shop that reduces bureaucratic hurdles. Additionally, he emphasized the necessity of expanding access to global markets and streamlining the cargo export process.

Badjie also raised a crucial point about the need for Gambia to focus on exporting more than importing, as the current scenario sees less than 10% of imports being counterbalanced by exports.

It’s worth noting that Mr. Badjie had previously offered valuable advice to the Gambian Government, urging them to take essential steps to transform Banjul Port into an efficient and digitized facility. He recommended enhancing consumer confidence, engaging with major shipping lines to secure commitments, and gaining insights into their medium and long-term plans. This strategy would be crucial to ensure the viability of the project, particularly in light of the expansion efforts already realized in Senegal, Ivory Coast, and Ghana.

Mr. Badjie also shared his insights with TFN reporters, suggesting that the upcoming Sanyang Port should be developed as a multipurpose facility catering to bulk and break bulk shipments, containers, and roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) services. He stressed that this endeavor would entail a significant investment, beginning with the construction of breakwaters. He expressed confidence that, if executed according to plan and with necessary considerations, this project could substantially bolster the Gambian economy and establish vital global connections for the country.

“They Have Exhausted All the Millions Allocated for Travels,” MC Cham Jr Reacts to Travel Suspension

Seringe Touray
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“They Have Exhausted All the Millions Allocated for Travels,” MC Cham Jr Reacts to Travel Suspension

By: Dawda Baldeh

While many have praised President Adama Barrow for instituting a ban on all government travel expenditures for the remainder of the fiscal year, the controversial figure Momodou MC Cham Junior, who holds a nomination as a Councilor for Kanifing Municipality, asserts that the travel restriction imposed by the President does not align with the government’s intentions. He contends that the government has fully utilized the substantial budget set aside for travel expenses.

“It is not out of a desire to save money. It is because they have exhausted all of the hundreds of millions they allocated for the useless travel they are notorious for. What a terrible government,” he expresses.

Cham characterizes the travel ban as a diversion from the ongoing National Discourse concerning the recent distribution of SUV vehicles to Members of Parliament last week.

He argues that merely prohibiting officials from traveling is not a sustainable or effective “quick fix” for addressing the underlying issue of fiscal irresponsibility.

The nominated councilor asserts that President Barrow shouldn’t receive accolades for curtailing travel among public officials, as he views this as a response to the misuse of Per Diems within the political landscape of travel allowances.

Cham urges President Barrow to abandon a reactive leadership approach and instead adopt a proactive stance.

He contends that the President should appoint qualified individuals to key positions in order to alleviate the country’s worsening economic crisis, which has intensified since his assumption of power.

Cham acknowledges that government officials may require travel, but emphasizes that it should be conducted with minimal burden on public funds.

Touching on various subjects, Cham points out that the standard global Per Diem rate of $200 per day already exceeds the monthly salaries of most individuals in The Gambia.

He accuses the Barrow-led government of concentrating on Per Diem management and corruption scandals to the detriment of other priorities.

He underscores that Public Officers and Servants must avoid unnecessary and extended travel durations that come at the taxpayers’ expense and yield no tangible benefits.

The politician also highlights The Gambia’s unfavorable ranking as the 174th poorest nation out of 191 countries, as per the United Nations Human Development Index.

Cham further delves into allegations of mismanagement of public funds, citing increases in National Assembly allowances, government travel expenses, and spending across several ministries.

“After increasing salaries last year for the President, Civil servants, and National Assembly members, buying  D3.5 million vehicles for the National Assembly members, it is drying in the coffers, only for the government to introduce some fiscal and austerity measures to mitigate the negative effects on the economy, and by extension on the delivery of public services to our citizens,” he asserts.

Government Ineffectiveness Takes a Toll on Mile II Prison Inmates

Seringe Touray
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Government Ineffectiveness Takes a Toll on Mile II Prison Inmates

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

Inmates held at Mile II State Central Prison have initiated an urgent plea directed towards the Gambian government, conveyed through the Ministries of Justice and Interior. Their appeal is for the establishment of an office within the prison premises, dedicated to assisting inmates, particularly those facing challenges in accessing their court records when seeking to file appeals.

This request came after some young politicians from Kanifing Municipality, along with the NGO Peace Network and the Bob Keita Foundation, visited Mile II State Central Prison. During the visit, a person named Sheikh Tijan Hydara, who is in prison, told them that the prison holds people from different countries who are serving different lengths of time in prison.

He conveyed that while conversing among themselves, certain inmates divulged that due to their non-Gambian status, they lack family members or guardians who could assist them in obtaining their court records. This deficiency in records, according to him, renders the appeal court unable to intervene in their sentences effectively.

Hydara also articulated his apprehension regarding what he termed the ‘government’s incapacity’ to ensure an adequate supply of medication at the Mile II Clinic. He asserted that the government has overlooked the needs of the prison facility.

President Barrow to Honor Janjanbureh’s Two Hundredth Anniversary

Seringe Touray
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President Barrow to Honor Janjanbureh’s Two Hundredth Anniversary

By: Sainabou Gassama

In a press release dated August 22, 2023, His Excellency President Adama Barrow announced his intention to preside over the commemoration of the bicentenary anniversary of Janjanbureh, formerly known as Georgetown and the Administrative Headquarters of the Central River Region. The event is scheduled to take place from November 23rd to 26th, 2023.

As stated in the press release, the commemorative activities will be led by Hon. Hamat N.K Bah, the Minister of Tourism and Culture, under the theme “Celebrating Homecoming And Our Heritage.”

The primary objectives of this event are to revive and showcase cultural heritage, establish a robust rural tourism program, foster social unity within Gambia, and honor the 200-year historical journey of Janjanbureh. This journey has seen the convergence of diverse civilizations, including African, Islamic, Arabic, English, Portuguese, and Christian influences.

Esteemed attendees will include Cabinet Ministers, members of the Diplomatic & Consular Corps, and various local and international dignitaries, all gathering to commemorate this significant milestone in Gambian history.

The National Organizing Committee overseeing Janjanbureh’s 200th anniversary celebration encourages active participation from the community, spanning cultures, traditions, histories, nature, and academia. Regular updates will be provided to the public as the event draws near.

How Do You Think ECOWAS Should Address the Situation in Niger?

Seringe Touray
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How Do You Think ECOWAS Should Address the Situation in Niger?

The ongoing situation in Niger, following the coup in July, remains a matter of concern. However, the trajectory of Niger’s future doesn’t solely rest on the actions of its recent military leadership. The regional coalition ECOWAS recently convened a summit in Ghana spanning Thursday and Friday, aiming to deliberate on the best course of action. Presently, a majority of its member nations are inclined towards a military intervention, while ECOWAS maintains its stance on advocating for a peaceful restoration of civilian governance. Given the precarious possibility of either achieving peace or escalating into a full-fledged conflict, what lies ahead for Niger?

Let us know in the comments.

Curious About The Gambia’s Working Population? GBoS Has the Latest Breakdown

Seringe Touray
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Curious About The Gambia’s Working Population? GBoS Has the Latest Breakdown

By: Seringe ST Touray

The most recent findings presented by The Gambia Bureau of Statistics (GBoS) have revealed the present condition of the workforce in The Gambia. These statistics disclose that the rate of engagement in the labor force stands at 43.6%, while the rate of non-participation amounts to 56.4%.

Regarding the classification of the employment situation among individuals of working age, the research brings attention to the fact that, “On an average basis, 43.6% of people within the working-age range are actively participating in the labor market—either through having a job or experiencing unemployment. The remaining 56.4% constitute the segment of the population that is not actively involved, including students (23.4%), subsistence farmers (9.4%), and individuals facing diverse situations such as the elderly, disabled persons, and discouraged job seekers (23.6%).”

Elaborating on the employment-to-population ratio—a gauge of the proportion of the working-age population that is gainfully employed—the survey expounds, “The employed category includes all individuals of working age who were involved in productive activities during the preceding week, whether compensated monetarily or through profit generation.”

Furthermore, the report states, “The employment-to-population ratio stands at 40.3%, aligning closely with the labor force participation rate since the bulk of the labor force comprises employed individuals. Concurrently, the unemployment rate registers at 7.6%. Unemployed individuals are those of working age who did not work in the week before the interview, actively searched for employment in the past four weeks, and remained available for work during the week of the interview and the following two weeks.”

The survey goes on to highlight disparities in labor force participation rates (LFPR) based on gender and age. LFPR is notably higher among males (47.9%) compared to females (39.6%) across all age brackets. The age-wise analysis reveals that young people tend to enter the labor market later due to prolonged education, with participation peaking during prime years (35-59 years) at around 60% before tapering off at retirement age. Additionally, the LFPR is markedly higher in urban areas (62.6%) compared to rural regions (37.4%), influenced in part by the timing of the survey post-harvesting season.

The Recent Two-day Heavy Downpour Has Significantly Disrupted Road Transportation In Affected Areas

Seringe Touray
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The Recent Two-day Heavy Downpour Has Significantly Disrupted Road Transportation In Affected Areas

By: Alagie Cherno Suwareh

The Greater Banjul Area and parts of the West Coast Region have been hit by an intense downpour, leaving many individuals stranded on the streets. It’s worth noting that the OIC road project commenced approximately two years ago. However, due to its incomplete status, combined with the relentless rain, commuters are facing substantial difficulties in accessing smooth travel routes. Consequently, drivers are hesitant to traverse these roads, fearing potential vehicle damage and the heightened risk of road traffic accidents.

Lamin Jarju, a taxi driver, shared his perspective on the matter, revealing that he wouldn’t even consider taking passengers to certain locations. He firmly believes that the risk is too great. Pabi Camara, another taxi driver, expressed a contrasting viewpoint. He emphasized that their livelihoods depend on navigating through traffic and, despite the challenges, he’s one of the few willing to brave the conditions. He also called upon the government to deploy buses in order to alleviate transportation woes. Camara suggested that certain areas should be off-limits to taxis, except for door-to-door services or town trips.

As the rain continues unabated in the lead-up to Monday, a notably busy day of the week, it raises questions about the current state of road traffic transportation. What is your perspective on this ongoing issue?

Is Messi Decisively The GOAT?

Seringe Touray
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Is Messi Decisively The GOAT?

By: Alagie Cherno Suwareh

Arguably the greatest football player of all time, Lionel Andrés Messi, better known as Leo Messi, secured the League Cup title as he led Inter Miami, his MLS league club, as captain.

Renowned for his mesmerizing tricks to outmaneuver defenders and his ability to score astonishing goals, the Rosario-born Messi, also a World Cup winner, once again demonstrated his brilliance with a remarkable opener in the 23rd minute of the first half during a match against Nashville. This goal proved to be decisive, ultimately resulting in a 1-1 draw at full time.

However, the match was ultimately settled in an 11-10 penalty shootout in favor of Inter Miami, a team that had been struggling prior to Leo Messi’s arrival earlier this year.

Thanks to this victory, Leo Messi added trophy number 44 to his collection, which includes the FIFA World Cup. He now officially holds the record for the most trophies won by a football player. Following closely is Dani Alves, his former teammate at Barcelona, with 43 trophies. In contrast, his arch-rival on the field, Cristiano Ronaldo, who is currently playing in the Saudi League, has secured 34 senior trophies.

Breaking News: Thousands of Niamey (Niger) Residents Volunteer to Support Junta Against Potential ECOWAS Intervention

Seringe Touray
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Breaking News: Thousands of Niamey (Niger) Residents Volunteer to Support Junta Against Potential ECOWAS Intervention

By: Seringe ST Touray

A large number of Nigeriens formed long queues outside Niamey’s main stadium on Saturday, responding to a call for civilian volunteers to support the junta armed forces. According to AfricaNews.com, the organizer of the event clarified that the junta was not directly involved in this initiative, although they were aware of its occurrence. Meanwhile, neighboring countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal, have issued warnings to the junta regarding a potential military intervention.

Amidst the gathering, some parents brought their children along to enlist as volunteers. Young participants fervently voiced their support for the junta while expressing dissent against both ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) and France, the nation’s former colonial ruler.

This grassroots effort, led by a group of local residents in Niamey, has the ambitious goal of recruiting tens of thousands of volunteers from across the nation to defend Niger. This group is poised to undertake a range of roles, including combat duties, providing medical assistance, and handling technical and engineering logistics. These services would be extended to the junta should they require assistance, as outlined by Amsarou Bako, a co-founder of the initiative who spoke to The Associated Press on Tuesday, August 8, 2023.

On August 19, ECOWAS envoys arrived in Niger with the intent of engaging in further discussions with the junta. The delegation includes former Nigerian military head of state Abdulsalami Abubakar, as stated by the Nigerien ruling CNSP’s communication office. Abubakar had previously visited Niamey on August 3 as a representative of ECOWAS; however, he was unable to meet with either the newly empowered figurehead Abdourahamane Tchiani or the deposed president Mohamed Bazoum.

On the cusp of potential negotiations, the commissioner for political affairs and security within ECOWAS emphasized on August 18 that a standby force was prepared for deployment should diplomatic talks fail.

Govt approves expansion of Banjul Port, construction of deep seaport in Sanyang

Amara Thoronka
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Govt approves expansion of Banjul Port, construction of deep seaport in Sanyang

Gambian Government has approved the expansion of Banjul Port and the construction of a deep seaport at Sanyang village in the West Coast Region within two years.

In a press release, signed by Ebrima G. Sankareh – Government Spokesperson & Presidential Diaspora Adviser, the Gambian Government notes that the approved public private partnership (PPP) concession agreement seeks “to increase the handling capacity of the country’s only seaport and decongest terminals”.

In an effort to uphold transparency, government has disclosed the various parties to the said development projects.

“The PPP concessionaires are Albayrak and Negmar Consortium of Turkey with The Gambia Port Authority (GPA) serving as both a Guarantor and Shareholder in the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV). Maritime Transport Business Services (MTBS) of Netherlands is the Transaction Adviser which assisted the Government in the bidding process through the PPP Technical Evaluation Committee comprising representatives from OP, GPA, GPPA, GRA, MOJ, MTWI, MOFEA, MOTIRIE, GIEPA and the PPP Directorate at the Finance & Economic Affairs Ministry.

“Albayrak and Negmar Consortium will be appointed as the Lead Arranger of the SPV Joint Venture (JV) with the responsibility for the construction of the facilities, while the other two Preferred Bidders, Red Sea Gateway Terminals of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Yilport of Turkey, would hold equity in the SPV, to leverage on their respective competencies and investment opportunities,” the press release explains.

According to the President Adama Barrow led government, “the PPP arrangement is expected to address the need for sustainable management and operations of The Gambia’s port facilities given the climate risks associated with sea-level rise, perennial dredging required due to increased sedimentation in Banjul and the limited capacity for expansion and congestion in the capital city.”

Giving the span of the projects and time they will practically commence, the release discloses that, “the construction of the Deep Seaport in Sanyang and the expansion of the Banjul Port are to run concurrently and be concluded within 24 months (2 years). Once the identified lead PPP concessionaire commits to the Award instruments, work will begin in earnest”.

Senegal News: Ousmane Sonko on Life Support, Reports His Party and Legal Team

Seringe Touray
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Senegal News: Ousmane Sonko on Life Support, Reports His Party and Legal Team

By: Seringe ST Touray

Attorneys representing Ousmane Sonko, along with officials from his disbanded political party, announced on Thursday that despite his detention since late July and his ongoing legal battle with the authorities and the judiciary, he had been admitted to an intensive care unit in a hospital in connection with his hunger strike.

While questioned by the AFP news agency, numerous government officials refrained from confirming or refuting reports of Mr. Sonko’s admission to the intensive care unit. Sonko, who has officially declared his candidacy for the 2024 presidential election, was incarcerated at the end of July on multiple charges, which includes incitement to rebellion, involvement in a criminal association linked to a terrorist group, and subversion of national security.

Sonko, who asserts that he is the target of a conspiracy aimed at preventing his participation in the upcoming presidential election, initiated a hunger strike on July 30, which has raised concerns about his health.

Me Ciré Clédor Ly, a lawyer representing Mr. Sonko, informed AFP that on Thursday afternoon, he visited the intensive care unit of the primary hospital in Dakar. During his visit, he was able to verify the presence of his client, Mr. Sonko, noting that the patient “has not recovered his senses since yesterday.”

Leaders affiliated with Sonko’s political party, Pastef, which was officially dissolved by the authorities in late July, shared an update across social media platforms stating that he was “hospitalized in the intensive care unit of Dakar’s primary hospital after experiencing a fainting episode” on the evening of Wednesday. At the age of 49, Sonko has been under hospital care since August 6. His advocates and legal representatives have consistently raised concerns about his deteriorating health.

The ongoing confrontation between Mr. Sonko and the authorities has triggered multiple instances of violent protests since his indictment in a sexual misconduct case in 2021. President Macky Sall’s most prominent opposition figure received a suspended six-month prison sentence in May for defaming a minister, and in June, a two-year imprisonment term for involvement in a “corruption of youth” case.

Mr. Sonko vehemently claims to be the victim of a conspiracy, while the presidential camp accuses him of harboring seditious intentions. Despite his convictions, Mr. Sonko’s legal team insists that he remains eligible for candidacy. In contrast, the Ministry of Justice announced a week ago that his electoral rights had been revoked.

BREAKING: ECOWAS Commissioner for Peace and Security States Troops “Ready” to Intervene in Niger

Seringe Touray
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BREAKING: ECOWAS Commissioner for Peace and Security States Troops “Ready” to Intervene in Niger

By: Seringe ST Touray

The unfolding situation continues as Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner for Peace and Security, declared in the Ghanaian capital of Accra that soldiers from eleven West African countries, including Nigeria, Senegal, and Ghana, are “ready” to initiate military action in Niger should negotiations with the junta falter. Musah stated that this intervention’s purpose would be to reinstate constitutional order in Niger and restore ousted President Bazoum.

“We are ready to go anytime the orders are given,” said Musah. “Our troops are ready to respond to the call of duty of the region. It (military intervention) is not our preferred option – but we are obliged to do it because of the intransigence of the regime and the obstacles they’ve been putting in the way of a negotiated settlement.”

There are compelling indications that members of the Niger junta have initiated the evacuation of their families as a response to the looming threat of invasion by ECOWAS. This operation reportedly occurred recently at Agadez Airport within the country. Gulfstream G550 jets were utilized for this purpose.

According to Arise News, a source well-versed in these movements conveyed, “During the night of Friday, August 11th to Saturday, August 12th, 2023, the Nigerien junta, led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, conducted the evacuation of families belonging to the coup plotters. A number of Gulfstream G550 aircraft, notably flight No. BFY824R, took off from Agadez Airport to destinations in Burkina Faso and Dubai, carrying women and children on board.”

Additional uncertainty engulfed the region following the junta’s recent announcement that ousted President Bazoum would face trial for high treason. If found guilty, Bazoum, who has been under house arrest, could potentially receive the death penalty, in accordance with Niger’s penal code. This decision resulted in substantial sanctions on Niger, causing a 60% surge in food prices and leading to electricity cuts lasting up to 10 hours. Despite these challenges, the soldiers further solidified their position by announcing a 21-member cabinet to govern the country.

Despite a strong show of support for the junta within the capital city of Niamey, Niger remains suspended from ECOWAS due to the military coup through which General Tchiani assumed power. Other West African countries under military leadership, including Guinea Konarki, Burkina Faso, and Mali, also had their ECOWAS memberships revoked.

Two Cocaine Traffickers Will Serve 10 Years in Mile 2 Prison or Pay D12 Million, Principal Magistrate Rules

Seringe Touray
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Two Cocaine Traffickers Will Serve 10 Years in Mile 2 Prison or Pay D12 Million, Principal Magistrate Rules

By: Seringe ST Touray

On Thursday, August 18, 2023, Principal Magistrate Modou Njie sentenced two Guinea Bissau nationals who had been previously apprehended locally by the Drug Law Enforcement Agency of The Gambia (DLEAG), in suspicion of aggravated drug trafficking.

After having pled guilty to their respective charges, the magistrate ordered the sentencing of either ten years imprisonment for each of the convicts, or a fine amounting to a D12 million – with either option leading up to deportation of the convicts to their native countries of Guinea Bissau.

“The convicts are sentenced to a fine of D12,000,000 forthwith and in default to serve 10 years imprisonment each. They shall be immediately deported to their native country of Guinea Bissau after serving this sentence and payment of the fine.”

The two traffickers were arrested by the DLEAG with 104 kilos of cocaine, EUR4,000, GMD2,950, and a Toyota Rav vehicle, all of which have been forfeited to the state. This ruling, among a growing number of arrests and convictions, continues to sound alarm bells about the rise of illegal drug importation and a correlated rise in their consumption by Gambians.

BREAKING: 38 Rescued, Over 60 Feared Dead as Migrant Boat Carrying Mostly Senegalese Capsized Off Cape Verde

Seringe Touray
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BREAKING: 38 Rescued, Over 60 Feared Dead as Migrant Boat Carrying Mostly Senegalese Capsized Off Cape Verde

By: Seringe ST Touray

About 101 irregular migrants, mostly Senegalese, boarded a pirogue-style boat bound for Spain. The boat was at sea for over a month before the tragic event off Cape Verde. This adds to the alarming and rising death toll of West African and other irregular migrants traveling by sea.

Mamour Ba, the brother of Cheikhouna, who was among the deceased onboard the boat bound for Spain, told the BBC that he and his family are “shocked” by the tragic loss. According to Mamour, his brother “was one of the pillars of his family.” However, despite the tragedy, 27-year-old Mamour confesses that he would attempt the perilous journey himself if it continues to be difficult or impossible to make a living in Senegal.

“I don’t have the money to take a plane. It’s better to pay 300,000 or 400,000 CFA ($500 or $665) to go to Spain than to spend millions trying to get there by plane,” Mamour told the BBC. He also mentioned that a fear of drowning is not a determining factor: “Others have made this journey and drowned, but it doesn’t deter me. It’s a risk I’m willing to take. Even if a boat were ready to go today, I would take it.”

The number of African migrants who die at sea varies significantly due to factors such as the time period, migration routes, and regional conditions. Unfortunately, many migrants, including Africans, Senegalese, and Gambians, continue to lose their lives while attempting dangerous sea crossings in search of better opportunities or refuge. While data continues to be gathered on West African migrant deaths at sea, the most up-to-date figures stand at 432 deaths from the region in 2020, 1,146 in 2021, and 205 in 2022. Additionally, in 2022, over 128 deaths with unknown nationalities were also recorded.

The house of the mayor of Fass Boye, where most of those on board the capsized boat hailed from, was set ablaze by angry protestors expressing their frustration with government authorities due to the lack of opportunities for young people.

Gardeners in Lamin Subutu and Daranka Faro in Critical Need of Proper Garden Fences and Surface Barriers to Prevent Salt Water Intrusion

Seringe Touray
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Gardeners in Lamin Subutu and Daranka Faro in Critical Need of Proper Garden Fences and Surface Barriers to Prevent Salt Water Intrusion

By: Sainabou Gassama

With agriculture being the backbone of The Gambia, the sector supports livelihoods with food, habitat, and employment, while also bolstering the economy through trade. Many Gambians are dependent on agriculture as the main source of their livelihood.

Vegetable gardeners and rice cultivators in Lamin Daranka and Subutu Faro demand support to build proper garden fences and surface barriers to stop saltwater intrusion.

Speaking to The Fatou Network, Fatou Ceesay, a gardener, said that the lack of proper garden fences and the salt water intrusion cause lots of damages in their garden. According to Fatou, the salt water damage is due to the accumulation of chloride and sodium irons in the salt water, which can be toxic to plants. Additionally, some animals from nearby surroundings tend to invade and eat their crops due to lack of proper fences. “We suffer a lot,” Fatou said. “We sometimes use our old bed nets, wrappers, and iron sheets to fence our garden in other to protect our plants from being eaten by the animals.” Gardening is Fatou’s main source of income, through which she is able to sustain her family’s needs, but this prevalent issue has become a serious challenge for her and her family.

Ousman Jatta, who is also a gardener and rice cultivator, threw some light on how they suffer while attempting, unsuccessfully, to make surface barriers with their hands to prevent the intrusion of the salt water: “the barrier we made was very short as it was done by man power. When the high tide comes, the salt water overlays our garden because of the height of the barrier. We tried to order a power tiller to make the barrier ourselves but to no success, so I and my two neighbors decided to make it using our hands.”

Jatta also reveals that many donors have come to their garden to query them on their challenges, even taking photos, but none have come to their aid. “On several occasions we receive visitors from even NGOs who we believe could help us but ‘till now we’ve not heard back from any of them.”

Jatta pointed to an area he believes could be better for rice cultivation, but even such area was covered by salt water. According to him, officials from the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) came and took photos of the said potion of land filled with salt water but they never heard back from them either.

“Hundreds of people used to survive from this garden. Up to two hectares is wasted because crops cannot grow in the salt water. We always seek help from the Ministry and from other donors but no one has showed up,” Jatta added.

Jatta appeals to the relevant authorities to come to their aid because their livelihood depends on gardening, and because most of the gardeners are women and mainly the breadwinners of their families.

Jatta Njie, another vegetable gardener and rice cultivator, narrates that her nursery rice bedding was all eaten up by animals last year due to a poor garden fence. According her, they used to pay some men in the village to make garden fences for them in other to prevent animals from entering. “One of our neighbors passed away and I cannot go because I am afraid that I might lose all my crops to the animals. We invest a lot money into our garden but we are unable to get a profit at the end,” she says.

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