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Father recounts tragic death of son in April 10 student massacre

Hadram Hydara
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By: Dawda Baldeh

64-year-old Abdoulie H Bojang, a Security Operations Chief residing at Talinding at the time of April 10, 2000, student demonstration which turned out fatal, claiming fourteen (14) innocent lives, has recounted how his son was killed while he was away.

Today, April 10, 2023, marks 23 years since the incident occurred where at least 14 students who were demanding justice for their fellow students were killed.

“I was 400km away on a trek to Basse on security inspection at The Standard Bank facilities. On our way back around Kafuta, we saw some burning tyres. I tuned into the radio and heard a report that some students were killed. The conservation with my wife in the vehicle stopped.

“When we arrived home between 7-8 p.m., we saw people standing around our house talking to each other and constantly looking at us. I could not do anything because I was confused. I picked up my motorcycle and ride to the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital to check what happened.

“After arriving at the hospital everywhere was busy, doctors hauling and yelling, and wounded students and parents were crying. I was told that I couldn’t see my son that night and I was completely out of my senses, but I have to comply. I went home and broke the news to my wife and the family,” he explained.

Mr Bojang added that after being told to go home, he knew it would not be good. “The following day I returned to the hospital around 8:30 a.m. where I met one Dr. Ceesay who took me to the accident and emergency room.

“I was told my son was shot and they have tried everything to save him, but he died. I was badly out of my senses, and I cried bitterly,” he said.

Mr. Bojang told The Fatu Network that he was later handed his late son’s school ID card and other materials. He recalled that late Lamin was having an exam on that very day.

“Lamin A. Bojang was a very smart and intelligent and promising student. This day will remain in my mind and heart until I died. Lamin’s death has left the entire family in a very devastating situation,” he narrated with tears in his eyes.

Over 23 years he said they are still waiting for justice, adding that some victims have died, other survivors have been paralyzed, and some of their parents who have been waiting to see justice being served have also died.

What happened after the incident?

After the tragic incident, the government under the leadership of former President Yahya Jammeh set a commission of inquiry probing the April 10th and 11th students’ demonstration to investigate and hold to account the security officials responsible. However, for Mr. Bojang, the commission’s purpose was not something they ended up seeing.

“We were called to testify at the commission which was set to investigate the security officials responsible but it was very unfortunate that the former President Yahya Jammeh over TV said he has indemnified those soldiers involved. That is to say, there was no justice for the victims,” the grieved father recounted.

According to him, hopes faded after the former president openly indemnified the soldiers whom they believed mated the gross human rights violations on the students.

The Truth Reconciliation and Reparation Commission (TRRC) Testimonies and Bojang’s View

Like hundreds of others who are direct victims or indirectly victimized, Bojang also appeared at the public hearing of the Truth Reconciliation and Reparation Commission (TRRC) to give testimonies on the tragic incident that claimed the life of his beloved son Lamin A. Bojang, a then 18-year-old grade 11 student attending Nusrat Senior Secondary School.

“Several things were highlighted at the TRRC particularly the manner the security forces handled crowds leading to gross human rights violations.

“I don’t know how others may see this but to disperse peaceful demonstrators with force is wrong. The way the security forces handled the kids on April 10 and 11 was wrong,” he added.

Mr. Bojang called on the government to act and implement the recommendations they have accepted from the TRRC to avoid reoccurrences of such tragic incidents.

“The best thing is for the government to implement the recommendations because the victims have waited far too long for justice. We have heard confessions during the TRRC but on the side of the students, it seems no one is willing to take responsibility. But from the narratives, you can easily pick up the security officials who acted otherwise,” he said.

For many people like Mr. Bojang, the loss is irreplaceable but getting justice is highly needed. He urged the government to speed up the process to ensure justice is served.

“It is very unfair for the victims to continue waiting for justice. You cannot impose reconciliation on people without justice. It cannot work and people are tired,” Bojang emphasized.

He described April 10 and 11 as a black day in his life and the family, saying the late Lamin A. Bojang was a very dedicated student whom he was hoping so much for.
He noted that from Latrikunda primary school to Nusrat Senior Secondary, the late Lamin was always in between 1st and 3rd position in the class.

Many parents and survivors like Abdoulie are eagerly waiting for justice as the long wait continues for two decades.

GDC administrative secretary assails Dou Sanno over ‘lies’ against Opposition

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GDC administrative secretary assails Dou Sanno over ‘lies’ against Opposition

By: Dawda Baldeh

The opposition Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC) Administrative Secretary 1 Ebrima Nyang has accused Dou Sanno, an adviser to President Barrow, of continuously lying against opposition parties, describing him as an “embarrassment” and a “disgrace to Gambian politics”.

“Dou Sanno will never take a break from uttering lies against opposition parties. I urged the people of Jimara to re-elect Ebrima Manneh for continued development.

Dou is an embarrassment and disgrace to Gambian politics.

He has no moral authority to preach honesty in our politics,” Mr Nyang asserted after party supporters clashed with the presidential adviser last week in Jimara.

Nyang denied claims that GDC is rejected in Jimara.

“He lied against the Alkalo of Sare Talata and his bogus statement was debunked by the Alkalo.

Dou has anchored lies against Hon. Kandeh during the Parliamentary election just to stain him with no substantiative evidence,” he added.

According to him, Dou went to Jimara with the company of the Chief due to fear of losing the seat to GDC again.

Speaking on a range of issues, the young politician said, “We (GDC) are dignified people whose actions can be measured with our words.

That is why we continue to reject Barrow’s government due to bad leadership and worthless adviser like Dou Sanno.”

He further explained that GDC will depend on their candidates at all costs.

Nyang described the presidential adviser as a “toothless lion”, saying no amount of threat will be considered.

“I want to profoundly warn you that whatever we can do within the limit of the law will be done and nothing can stop it,” Mr Nyang noted, adding that he was shocked to hear from the Alkalo’s attestation that he doesn’t know Dou Sanno when their villages are just next door.

He noted that how Dou continues to act in the political arena explains his lack of interest in the people of Jimara.

“The interest of the NPP is to secure your votes in every election for their continuous flamboyant lifestyle, while the people continue to live in terrible life,” he asserted.

Nyang debunked Dou Sanno’s assertions on his party leader Mamma Kandeh, saying he (Kandeh) is honest and a principal who loves the Gambia.

“Kandeh has shared every little thing with Gambians to contribute his quota. Unlike those spreading garbage to mislead the public.

The time is now to give power to the opposition, as the past 7 years has been marked with profound regrets,” he said.

Ramadan supports brain function, improves longevity

Hadram Hydara
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Ramadan supports brain function, improves longevity

By Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu

Ramadan supports brain function, improves longevity

Ramadan in the Gambia

A study carried out by scientists in the USA found that the mental focus achieved during Ramadan increases the level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which causes the body to produce more brain cells, thus improving brain function. Though the purpose of fasting should purely be faith, obedience, and seeking the mercy of Allah, the huge array of scientific and health benefits that this month brings along should again aid in strengthening the faith of a believer. A large number of studies conducted over the years by Muslim and non-Muslim researchers alike talk about the scientific benefits of Ramadan fasting (Hourani et al. 2009; Rouhani and Azadbakht, 2014; Rahman. S, 2022).  Hence, in this article, I examine the science behind Muslims’ fasting period: refrain from eating, drinking, and having sex during the entire daytime for one month, every year.

 Fasting, Motivation

Fasting has been applied for diverse reasons. But in the case of Ramadan, the purpose of fasting should purely be faith, obedience, and seeking the mercy of Allah. But there are other reasons people also opt for fasting:  For instance, Wikipedia (2022) notes that fasting was historically studied in a population under famine and hunger strikes, which led to the alternative name of ‘starvation diet’, as a diet with 0 calorie intake per day. For political reasons, it is understood that fasting is often used as a tool to make a political statement, to protest, or to bring awareness to a cause.

A hunger strike is a method of non-violent resistance in which participants fast as an act of political protest, to provoke feelings of guilt, or to achieve a goal such as a policy change. A spiritual fast incorporates personal spiritual beliefs with the desire to express personal principles, sometimes in the context of social injustice (Garcia, 2007).

A retrospective study by Harinarayanan, (1986) opined that the political leader Gandhi undertook several long fasts as political and social protests. Gandhi’s fasts had a significant impact on the British Raj and the Indian population generally.

BBC News (2019) also explained that in Northern Ireland in 1981, a prisoner, Bobby Sands, was part of the 1981 Irish hunger strike, protesting for better rights in prison. Sands had just been elected to the British Parliament and died after 66 days of not eating. His funeral was attended by 100,000 people and the strike ended only after nine other men died. In all, ten men survived without food for 46 to 73 days.

Shaw, (2008) also asserts that César Chávez undertook several spiritual fasts, including a 25-day fast in 1968, promoting the principle of non-violence, and a fast of ‘thanksgiving and hope’ to prepare for pre-arranged civil disobedience by farm workers.

A similar study by Espinosa and Garcia (2008) also confirmed that Chávez regarded a spiritual fast as “a personal spiritual transformation”.  However, Shaw (2008) is of the view that other progressive campaigns have adopted the tactic.

For medical application, Norman(2003) holds the view that fasting is always practised before surgery or other procedures that require general anaesthesia because of the risk of pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents after induction of anaesthesia (i.e., vomiting and inhaling the vomit, causing life-threatening aspiration pneumonia).  Additionally, certain medical tests, such as cholesterol testing (lipid panel) or certain blood glucose measurements require fasting for several hours so that a baseline can be established. In the case of a lipid panel, failure to fast for a full 12 hours (including vitamins) will guarantee an elevated triglyceride measurement( http://www.reducetriglycerides.com/lower_triglycerides_print.htm, 2010).

Despite its recent surge in popularity, fasting is a practice that dates back centuries and plays a central role in many cultures and religions.

 Fasting, the Science

Regulates blood sugar

From empirical literature, studies have found that fasting may improve blood sugar control, which could be especially useful for those at risk of diabetes (Link, 2018).

For instance, one small study involving 10 people by Arnason et al. (2017) with type 2 diabetes demonstrated that short-term intermittent fasting significantly decreased blood sugar levels. Another article by Gunnars (2020) asserts that both intermittent fasting and alternate-day fasting were as effective as limiting calorie intake at reducing insulin resistance (Adda and Kubala, 2020).

A previous review by Gunnars (2019) is further of the view that decreasing insulin resistance can increase your body’s sensitivity to insulin, allowing it to transport glucose from your bloodstream to your cells more efficiently.

Coupled with the potential blood sugar-lowering effects of fasting, this could help keep your blood sugar steady, preventing spikes and crashes in your blood sugar levels. A retrospective study by Heilbronn et al. (2005) found that the impact of fasting on blood sugar may differ between men and women.  The study demonstrated that practising alternate-day fasting impaired blood sugar control in women but had no effect in men.

Fasting fights Inflammation

On the other hand, acute inflammation is a normal immune process used to help fight off infections while chronic inflammation can have serious consequences for your health. Hunter’s (2012) study demonstrates that inflammation may be involved in the development of chronic conditions, such as heart disease, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis.  Given this, one review by Spritzler (2018) found that fasting can help decrease levels of inflammation and help promote better health.

Faris et al. (2012) study which involved 50 healthy adults found that intermittent fasting for one month significantly decreased levels of inflammatory markers. A similar small retrospective study by Aksungar et al. (2007) discovered the same effect when people fasted for 12 hours a day for one month.

The interesting thing is that one prospective animal study by Choi et al. (2016) demonstrates that following a very low-calorie diet to mimic the effects of fasting reduced levels of inflammation and was beneficial in the treatment of multiple sclerosis – a chronic inflammatory condition.

Fasting supports Cardiovascular Health

Interestingly, studies have found that incorporating fasting into daily activities could improve our heart health. One review by Kerri-Ann (2018) found that eight weeks of alternate-day fasting reduced levels of ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol and blood triglycerides by 25% and 32% respectively (Link, 2021).

Another retrospective study by Beleslin et al. (2007) in 110 obese adults found that fasting for three weeks under medical supervision significantly decreased blood pressure, as well as levels of blood triglycerides, total cholesterol, and ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol.

Another prospective study by Horne et al. (2008) involving 4,629 people linked fasting with a lower risk of coronary artery disease, as well as a significantly lower risk of diabetes, which is a major risk factor for heart disease.

Fasting supports brain function and averts Neurodegenerative Disorders

Though studies are limited to animal research, several studies have found that fasting could have a powerful effect on brain health. For instance, Li et al.,(2013) study found that practising intermittent fasting for 11 months improved both brain function and brain structure. Other animal studies have reported that fasting could protect brain health and increase the generation of nerve cells to help enhance cognitive function (Lee et al, 2000; Tajes et al, 2010). Link (2018) explained that because fasting may also help relieve inflammation, it could also aid in preventing neurodegenerative disorders.

Two animal studies, (Dua and Mattson 1999; Halagappa et al.,2007) found that fasting may protect against and improve outcomes for conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s. Nevertheless, more studies are needed to evaluate the effects of fasting on brain function in humans (Link, 2018).

Fasting supports weight loss and boosts metabolism

Gunnar’s (2020) review asserts that many dieters pick up fasting looking for a quick and easy way to lose weight. Link (2018) hold the view that abstaining from all or certain foods and beverages should decrease your overall calorie intake, which could lead to increased weight loss over time. A previous study by Zauner et al, (2000) also found that short-term fasting may boost metabolism by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, which could enhance weight loss.  One review by Tinsley and Bounty (2015) demonstrated that whole-day fasting could reduce body weight by up to 9% and significantly decrease body fat over 12–24 weeks.

Another review by Varady (2011) also found that intermittent fasting over 3–12 weeks was as effective in inducing weight loss as continuous calorie restriction and decreased body weight and fat mass by up to 8% and 16% respectively. The same author further found that fasting is more effective than calorie restriction at increasing fat loss while simultaneously preserving muscle tissue.

Fasting increases growth hormone secretion

Human growth hormone (HGH) is a type of protein hormone that is central to many aspects of your health. A review by Mawer (2019) found that fasting could naturally increase HGH levels. One study by Salgin et al. (2012) in 11 healthy adults demonstrated that fasting for 24 hours significantly increased levels of HGH.  Another retrospective small study by Hartman et al. (1992) in nine men found that fasting for just two days led to a 5-fold increase in the HGH production rate.  A similar study by Lanzi et al. (1992) also found that fasting may help maintain steady blood sugar and insulin levels throughout the day, which may further optimize levels of HGH, as some research has found that sustaining increased levels of insulin may reduce HGH levels.

Fasting averts ageing and promotes longevity

One retrospective study by Goodrick et al. (1982) in rats that fasted every other day experienced a delayed rate of ageing and lived 83% longer than rats that didn’t fast.  Three animal studies by (Goodrick et al.1983; Honjoh et al,2009; Sogawa et al.2000) experienced similar findings, reporting that fasting could be effective in increasing longevity and survival rates.

However, current research is still limited to animal studies. Further studies are needed to understand how fasting may impact longevity and ageing in humans.

Fasting fights cancer and increases the effectiveness of chemotherapy

Animal and test-tube studies indicate that fasting may benefit the treatment and prevention of cancer. Rocha et al. (2002) involving a single rat study found that alternate-day fasting helped block tumour formation.  Another test-tube study by Lee et al (2012) found that exposing cancer cells to several cycles of fasting was as effective as chemotherapy in delaying tumour growth and increased the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs on cancer formation. Unfortunately, most research is limited to the effects of fasting on cancer formation in animals and cells (Link, 2018).

A side effect of Fasting

Farooq et al. (2021) found that fasting during Ramadan impacts the daily physical activity behaviour among Muslims. Interventions should focus on creating awareness of the importance of maintenance of adequate physical activity for adults fasting during Ramadan.

In a previous study by Ali and Abizari(2018) among schooling Ghanaian adolescents who fast during Ramadan, fasting was characterized by marked changes in usual food patterns, increased dietary diversity, and significant body weight loss.

Another study by Meo and Hassan, (2015) also found that Ramadan fasting is safe for all healthy individuals, but those with various illnesses such as diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, and renal and eye illness should consult their physicians and firmly follow the scientific recommendations.

 In two studies, Marshall (2012; Moore and Jason, 2016) hold the view that in rare occurrences, fasting can lead to the potentially fatal refeeding syndrome upon reinstatement of food intake due to electrolyte imbalance.

Wikipedia (2022) defines refeeding syndrome as a metabolic disturbance that occurs as a result of the reinstitution of nutrition in people and animals who are starved, severely malnourished, or metabolically stressed because of severe illness. When too much food or liquid nutrition supplement is eaten during the initial four to seven days following a malnutrition event, the production of glycogen, fat, and protein in cells may cause low serum (blood) concentrations of potassium, magnesium, and phosphate.

Take Home

Studies have demonstrated the many impacts of fasting from different perspectives; health and spiritual. Cheers!

NB:

Prof. Nyarkotey has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations to justify his write-ups.  My articles are for educational purposes and do not serve as Medical advice for Treatment. I aim to educate the public about evidence-based scientific Naturopathic Therapies.

The writer is a Professor of Naturopathic Healthcare, a Medical Journalist, and a science writer. President, Nyarkotey College of Holistic Medicine & Technology (NUCHMT), African Naturopathic Foundation, Ashaiman, Ghana. E. mail: [email protected].  Currently, BL candidate at the Gambia Law School, Banjul, The Gambia.

University of The Gambia Medical Students Association: Health myths/benefits of the ‘mborr mborr’ tea

Hadram Hydara
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011 R. Jobe

April 2023

THE MBORR MBORR TEA

It’s always refreshing after long hours of fasting, easily accessible and cheap, some date it back to ancient times, linked to traditions and culture but do we know its benefits? Are we just drinking it for its aroma and great taste?

As you read this, be sipping your mborr mborr along.

The “mborr mborr“ as it is called it in Wolof, ”jambakatango” in Mandinka bears no specific scientific name, it is commonly referred to as the Gambian tea, but it comes in many forms, and comes from the family Lippia Chevalieri Moldenke.

Taken with milk or taken plain, with or without sugar based on preference, the mborr mborr is very common in the Senegambian subregion. WHAT DOES MBORR MBORR CONTAIN?

  1. Mborr mborr is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, it could reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body and could protect your cells from damage. Hence, this may help athletes, as exercise causes stress and muscle damage in the body. Thus, taking mborr mborr tea could help rescue and fight against exercise-induced muscle damage in athletes. It also aids in joint pains due to this property.
  2. Taking mborrr mborr tea may deal with sleep issues. Research also confirmed that mborr mborr was used in the olden days to manage insomnia and induce sedation. It could have anti-anxiety and calming effects. These properties could also benefit those with insomnia (lack of sleep).
  3.  The combination of mborr mborr when combined with hibiscus (wonjo) helps to decrease fat build-up in the body, hence it is a recommended therapy for weight loss.
  4. Mborr mborr has a great impact in fighting bacteria and bacterial infections. Its extracts are usually in the manufacturing of topical antibiotic ointments.
  5. In Ghana, one old study found that this plant is used in the management for the treatment of arterial hypertension. It tended to maintain low blood pressure levels as well as assured adequate sleep and rest.
  6. It is traditionally used as an antimalarial, and for the treatment of respiratory diseases.

ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?

Though it is naturally safe to use mborr mborr, a recent study by (Dosoky and Setzer, 2021) found that its essential oils could increase the risk of birth defects. For this reason, pregnant women should not inhale aromatherapy( via inhalation of its vapour).

The European Medicine Agency (2020) also reports that pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid mborr mborr tea or extract, tincture, or syrups.

Note: Both animals and humans have demonstrated numerous benefits of mborr mborr in many forms. Key areas of interest are improving sleep; weight management in combination with hibiscus and helping athletes. You can add other ingredients as well.

REFERENCE: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/286157503_Lippia_chevalieri_Moldenke_a_brief_review_of_traditional_uses_phytochemistry_and_pharmacology

Article on Mborr Mborr by Professor Raphael Nyarkotey Obu

‘Dou Sanno attacked Faye Manneh, slapped him and broke his phone’: Angry Alkalo confirms assault on GDC candidate, disavows inviting presidential adviser over for politics

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‘Dou Sanno attacked Faye Manneh, slapped him and broke his phone’: Angry Alkalo confirms assault on GDC candidate, disavows inviting presidential adviser over for politics

By: Dawda Baldeh

The Alkalo of Sare Talata village in Gimara Constituency Bambayel Mballow has denied inviting Dou Sanno, an adviser to President Barrow to his village for politics, confirming Dou Sanno’s alleged assault on GDC candidate for Julangel Ward.

“I never invited Dou Sano to my village. I don’t know Dou Sanno and he doesn’t know me,” the angry village head clarified.

Mr Mballow added that Dou Sanno only talked to the village imam.

“I was sleeping when a police chief (chief messenger) came and told me that you need to come to Sare Talata to talk to the people.

I said no problem because I was not expecting that you are coming to hold political talks,” he added.

According to the village head, the presidential adviser mentioned Mamma Kandeh and his candidate for the council election which he noted triggered the violence.

However, he said Dou should not have engaged him in politics as they (Alkalolu)are supposed to be neutral.

“You should not talk about politics or even attack others if you mean you came to engage the youths.

When you started talking, I was scared that conflict will arise because I was not expecting that this was the reason you came to my village for,” he explained.

The angry village head asserted that if he knew Dou Sanno’s visit was to engage him in politics, he would have not allowed that.

“Dou Sanno attacked Faye Manneh, the GDC candidate for Julangel Ward in my presence. He slapped him and broke his phone,” Alkalo Mballow explained.

According to the village head, the conflict started when GDC people came to the village and told Dou Sanno that he was not supposed to hold any political meetings in Sare Talata hence it was their turn.

“I asked the village youths not to fight you and that’s how I escorted you to your vehicle so that you can leave the village. You should stop telling people that I invited you to my village.

Only Allah knows. I don’t know you and even if we meet, you don’t know me either. You should not use my name, I am an Alkalo,” he noted.

Video footage of the conflict in Sare Talata was shared on social media outlets including WhatsApp groups showing the Presidential Adviser being chased out of the village, however, in a recent video, he (Dou Sanno) denied being chased out by villagers.

The Fatu Network could not reach Dou Sanno for comment.

10 historical facts you may not know about the Independence Stadium

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10 historical facts you may not know about the Independence Stadium

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

With the stadium now under serious renovation after being deemed nonstandard to host international games which has sent the Gambia National football teams on many occasions to play their home games in a foreign land, The Fatu Network brings you some historical facts you may not know or will like to know about the country’s only independence stadium.

Here are some significant historical facts about the Independence Stadium:

1. The foundation stone of the Independence Stadium in Bakau was laid on the Gambia’s Independence Anniversary on the 18th day of February in 1980 by former President Alhagie Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara following the parade at the McCarthy Square in Banjul. And three years later, in August 1983, the stadium was completed, and the first test match played there between the Gambia U23 and Aseib Diourbel of Senegal.

2. However, the stadium was officially opened in December 1984 with a four-nation tournament. The Gambia won the tournament, beating Sierra Leone by a lone goal to nil scored by Bai Malleh Wadda.

3. Another significant historical fact about the Independence Stadium is that Thereat was the lead engineer. He promised a 25-thousand-seater plus a hostel to be completed in 1983.

4. The cost of the stadium in 1980 was 32 million Dalasi.

5. Designed to accommodate 25,000 at the time, it could hold up to 30,0000 spectators.

6. The first-ever game at the Independence Stadium was a cup final between Hawks and Starlight in the Saihou Ceesay Cup final.

7. The first-ever goal scored at the new stadium was by Muhammed Williams known as Kujabi.

8. The first-ever musical show performed at the stadium was by Abdel Kabirr known as Lie Ngum.

9. Another important historical fact about the stadium is that it was negotiated for by the sports minister at the time, Alhagie Momodou Cadi Cham.

10. It has hosted many ceremonies, including the historic visit of Pope John Paul in February 1992.

These are important historical records about the country’s only stadium brought to you by The Fatu Network with support from Tijan Masanneh Ceesay, a Gambian football historian and veteran commentator.

‘I regret the comments’: Former Ebo-town councillor apologises to Amie Bensouda

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‘I regret the comments’: Former Ebo-town councillor apologises to Amie Bensouda

By: Dawda Baldeh

Former APRC Ebo-town councillor Momodou Lamin Badjie has officially apologised to Amie Bensouda, the mother of incumbent Kanifing Municipal Council Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda for a statement he made against her in a press conference on 7 March 2023.

It could be recalled that in a local newspaper publication, Amie Bensouda demanded a public apology and retraction of the comments Momodou Lamin Badjie made against her or she will institute a defamatory lawsuit against him to the tune of one hundred million dalasis (D100m).

Speaking at a press on Thursday 6th April 2023, ex-councillor Badjie and his people officially apologised to Ms Bensouda.

“I am hereby apologising for the statement that we made that she (Amie Bensouda) feels offended, and she feels it’s defamatory.

It is not intentional, and we deeply apologise to her and assure her we will never make such against her,” he emphasized.

On his part, Yankuba Colley, former KMC mayor described the issue as worrisome, saying the statement wasn’t intended to defame Ms Bensouda.

“We equally feel that is wrong. So, [it] is best we apologise for the mistake as [she] wanted [it] to be in a public way and also to put up a write-up to her (Amie Bensouda) to extend our sincere apology to her.

“And we are looking for her forgiveness towards the statement,” he said.

The press conference was held at Yankuba Colley’s residence in Talinding the former Kanifing Municipality mayor.

GAP Releases Proposed Copyright Foreign Relations Policy With USA

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GAP Releases Proposed Copyright Foreign Relations Policy With USA

The opposition Gambia Action Party (GAP) led by Musa Ousainou Yali Bachilly has released their party proposed copyright foreign relations policy with the government of the United States of America.

The proposed policy outlined several measures and development initiatives GAP wishes to implement if elected to lead the affairs of the country.

Below is the full copyright document.
Introduction

The Gambia Action Party has a bilateral policy document with other nations of the world to ensure that the values and ethics of foreign relations are based on realities benefitting all parties in promoting Gambian cultural exhibitions and other development gains of the country.

The Gambia Action Party swiftly expressed desirable views in allying with the United States of America to promote, protect and defend as well as empower Gambians and improve social amenities in the country.

Thus, the Gambian community in the USA will also benefit from the derivatives of the Banjul-Washington DC Relationship (BWR)

The Gambia under GAP’s leadership will equally prioritize the interests of the United States of America and its citizens in The Gambia. However, irrational decisions made by this government will be revisited for the mutual benefit of both parties.

Reason(s) aligning with USA

The reason that triggered this relationship will provide socio-economic development gains for the Gambia through aid and investments that create employment, strengthen our defense and other security paraphernalia, improve the educational and health system, revitalize our economy, and serve as a catalyst for poverty reduction.

In addition, by allying with the United States of America, Gambia will have access to real democratic principles and values, human rights promotions, and good governance based on majority decisions whilst accommodating minority groups.

GAP will effectively manage to limit the abusive and retarded nature of the People’s Republic of China and its activities in our water bodies and end the corrupt deals they signed with this government.

Thus, our naturally endowed resources will be put to good use for the common good of the Gambian citizenry through effective mechanisms.

Political & Economic Benefits

Allying with the United States can have significant benefits for The Gambia, including economic, military, and political support.

The United States is one of the world’s largest economies, and partnering with them could provide valuable trade and investment opportunities.

Furthermore, the US has a powerful military that can train our men and women in Khaki and provide support in times of conflict or civil unrest – establishment of the US Military base Gambia for Inter-Military Support.

Political support can be crucial for Gambia’s international standing and can help in negotiating favorable trade agreements with other countries.

The GAP government will negotiate for a Gambian Market in the US to exhibit our products and generate revenue for the country through taxation.

Moreover, strong and reliable partnerships will be carved between Gambian investors and US counterparts for possible business growth in The Gambia and for establishing factories that employ the youths and revenue for the coffers.

Educational Benefits Driven Development Agenda(EBDDA)

Ministry of Education on both levels will work to improve the curriculum and introduce an educational system of the USA in The Gambia that benefits and strengthen the current educational frontiers in the country.

GAP government will partner with the US government to provide scholarship packages to the Gambian students from the University of Gambia, American University in Gambia, and Gambia College as well as the Senior Secondary category with an effective partnership with colleges and universities in the USA to promote inter-school alliances and establish study tours for Gambian students in the USA.

Social & Eco-tourism Benefits

The space allocated for US Embassy at Monkey Park will be relocated to Bakau K Point Beach for the benefit of preserving the national heritage and equally maintaining tourist attractions in the area as well as improving climate change effects in the country.

The new site will boost tourist involvement through the river safari from the USA to Banjul through the Atlantic Ocean and the extension of boat trips at the River Gambia for both locals and tourists with effective control mechanisms.

First-class hotels will be built in the area to beautify the beaches and bring significant benefits to the economy through increased tourism and investments. Saro and the outskirt of Old and Banjul will be used for nightlife for the tourist with robust security measures.

Health and Medical Support Initiative

Our porous health services and facilities over the years wreaked havoc on the innocent souls of our country due to the unhealthy conditions of our hospitals and the madling attitude of the health ministry. Many souls are gone because of our dilapidated medical conditions.

And allying with the United States could see us register significant benefits in improving health care services in The Gambia. Building new hospitals and furnishing them with drugs and major types of equipment as well as providing career support and training to our doctors and nurses.

Conclusions

An excerpt from The Gambia Action Party’s foreign relations policy document with the US aiming for the interest of both countries in various areas. The majority will continually wonder about the reasons for the relocation of the US Embassy, hosting a US Military Base, or even establishment of US markets in The Gambia.

Well, we wish to clarify that to the maximum extent possible for upholding the interests of The Gambia, allying with the US will only boost our development process as a nation that aims to compete in the global economic zone and stop the Chinese from economic enslaving The Gambia and other countries through the corrupt practices of the government.

The Secretary-General and Party Leader of Gambia Action Party
MUSA OUSAINOU YALI BATCHILLY

Copyright © All rights reserved. GAP Policy Document.

MC Cham Jr fires back at Bakary Badjie’s General Mobilizer

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By: Dawda Baldeh

Momodou MC Cham Junior, former campaign manager of the opposition Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC), has fired back at Matarr Saine who accused him and his people of bribing Alkalolu in exchange for support and endorsement of Talib Ahmed Bensouda.

Speaking to The Fatu Network, Mr Cham described the claim made by Matarr Saine, who is the general mobilizer of team Bakary Badjie, as totally false and misleading.

“I am against inducement and bribing people during the campaign. I believe in selling my agenda to the people and allowing them to make them choose. Matarr is not helping Bakary because his allegations don’t make sense at all,” he said.

He added that politics is not about making unfounded allegations. “If you don’t know how to campaign is better you stop making allegations against people. Matarr only knows how to organize Wrestling events, not politics,” Mc Cham added.

MC Cham further stated that people should desist from the politics of allegations and focus on the politics of decency.

He claimed that team Bakary Badjie is making too much of allegations against incumbent Talib Ahmed Bensouda without any evidence.

“I know all the Alkalolu in the Kanifing Municipality and some of their residents don’t even know those Alkalolu. I respect the Alkalolu but nowadays no Alkalo will deceive people,” he asserted.

According to the young politician, coming up with such unfounded accusations is not helping Bakary who is their candidate.

“This is showing the type of people that are behind Bakary. Who will trust them to lead the council?

Our style of politics is decent. We don’t give anyone money because we have a good track record,” he told The Fatu Network.

Tom says although GFF prefers him to stay in Europe for better scouting, he funds scouting missions by himself 

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Tom says although GFF prefers him to stay in Europe for better scouting, he funds scouting missions by himself 

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Tom Saintfeit, head coach of the Gambia senior national team, has revealed that with over 150 Gambian players in Europe, the Gambia Football Federation (GFF) prefers him to stay in Europe for easy scouting. However, he claims that, over the years, he funded all the scouting missions in Europe by himself without compensation from GFF, while other local coaches including Ebou Faye are stationed in the country to scout players in the domestic leagues.

The Belgian tactician told The Fatu Network that he financed himself from country to country in Europe searching for Gambian players for the past years and never received compensation from the federation or any form of allowance for his scouting trips in Europe.

“Majority of the players (Gambians) play in Europe. So, the federation decided that I better be in Europe because more than a hundred and fifty players play in Europe. I pay for my flight everywhere in Europe when I go on scouting. I don’t get the allowance for that. Not only that, but I pay for my hotels, my pay for my fuel. Everything I pay out of my pocket. I don’t get compensated for anything. All the scouting trips I do, I pay for myself,” the Belgian told The Fatu Network, adding that he does all these with pleasure.

Tom explained to TFN that he didn’t abandon Gambian leagues, but he has to be based in Europe due to the preference of the Gambia Football Federation to monitor the over 150 Gambian players playing there.

According to the Belgian, he has trust in certain coaches, who are his eyes and ears in the country for scouting players playing in the domestic leagues.

According to him, his assistant coach Alagie Sarr, Scorpion team manager Ousman Cho Drammeh, second vice president of GFF Ebou Faye and head coach of GFF Division One league leaders Falcons are his people in the Gambia doing the job for him.

“I have quality local assistant coaches in Alagie Sarr and Alagie Marong plus assisted by Lamin Sanneh who is a very close friend for many years and also a consultant for me. And also, Ebou Faye and Ousman Drammeh, who always keep me updated about the local players. I have full confidence in my local staff to update me about the players available,” he claimed.

Tom Sainfeit, at some point, was under criticism for not watching domestic Gambian leagues and his lack of taste in selecting one or two home-based players to be part of his national team selection.

Bakary Badjie’s campaign manager accuses MC Cham, others of bribing Alkalolu

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By: Lolly Sowe

Matar Saine, Bakary Badjie’s Mobilizer General ahead of the local government elections, has accused Momodou MC Cham Junior and his people of bribing Alkalolu in exchange for endorsing incumbent Kanifing Municipal Council Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda.

He asserted that Talib’s hope is in MC Cham Junior who is making lots of accusations about Alkalolu.

According to him, MC Cham visited Alkalolu who were expecting support in return for an endorsement.

“The Alkalolu are our leaders, and they will remain to be our leaders in our communities.

He added that MC Cham’s crew are doing everything in making sure that they get the victory.

“They are giving money, sugar and oil to the people. They are investing in wrestling, football, music, and football parks which they have not done over the past four (4) years,” he told journalists.

According to Mr. Saine, Alkalolu should not be opposition. He claimed that MC Cham’s crew are doing things for themselves and not for the interest of the country.

Matarr further claims that MC Cham intends to remove the Alkalolu from their positions.

“People like MC Cham always want to be opposition. The wards, communities, and regions should know the council they are supporting should always have a good relationship with the government for development instead of creating misunderstandings like Mayor Talib Bensouda and his crew,” he said.

Minister Badjie’s campaign manager added that millions of dalasis are in councils, however, he claimed that no one knows how the money is used.

He claimed the money is used for the participant and personal interest.

“People like MC Cham doesn’t worth to be heed,” he said.

Chenzhou: Cable car to Mangshan Mountain, rectangular-headed snake and red rock forgotten by God

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Chenzhou: Cable car to Mangshan Mountain, rectangular-headed snake and red rock forgotten by God

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By Talibeh Hydara

My trip to Hunan has ended and I am heartbroken. It was déjà vu for me. The feeling I had getting on that plane in Chenzhou on Monday back to Beijing was exactly the same feeling I had when I got on the Brussels flight from The Gambia to China in late February. I felt empty. I was only in Hunan for six days, but it felt like years. I felt at home. It was a special trip for me because I didn’t only get to enjoy wonderful experiences for the first time in my life but also appreciate the spirit of community in the Hunan Province, something dear to my heart, given my community upbringing.

I visited Yueyang and Changsha, spending two days in each city. I was speechless by the hospitality and the cuisine. I climbed the Great Wall in Beijing. I walked in the Garden of Love in Yueyang. I took a night boat trip in the lake up to the Orange Island in Changsha, watching the city lit up and Zedong’s sculpture illuminated from afar. But none is even close to how I felt in a cable car. Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Chenzhou, a city of height, forest and wonders.

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The first place we visited was Mangshan Mountain. When I saw mountain on the schedule, I was scared. Chinese people love to climb. There are stairs even in the bathrooms. So, seeing a mountain on the schedule freaked me out because I didn’t have a smooth experience last time, I climbed that kind of height. I climbed the Great Wall and my thighs hurt for days. I left with PTSD, post-traumatic stress disorder, but I like to call mine post-Great Wall stress disorder. Mangshan was going to freak me out but, lo and behold, there was a cable waiting to take me to the mountaintop. The experience in the cable is different gravy. It’s like standing on a glass spread over water, with sharks roaming under you. Every second you spend on it makes you feel like it would break, and the hungry sharks would have you for dinner. That’s exactly how I felt in that cable, rising as high as 1000m above the ground and travelling a distance of nearly 4km to the apex of Mangshan Mountain. It was surreal. Five of us got into the cable car, two of them were our tour guides. And because I was scared, I asked as many questions as possible just to switch attention from me. If you’re scared and silent, everyone notices, at least those who are not scared. I become chatty when I am afraid. The questions however gave me some details about the cable and the wisdom behind the construction. It was built by at least 30 technicians, with the top 10 from China, taking only a few years to complete. The cable gave everyone an opportunity to travel to the top of the mountain and enjoy the wonders of nature. Imagine if there was no cableway, only a few people would hike that mountain and so many splendid features of the mountain would not have been discovered.

Now, the cable has not only provided accessibility to the people but has become a hotspot for thousands of people, especially those in Guangdong. The cable costs 280 yuan per trip with kids and elderly paying half the price. The gates are free for those with disabilities and half-price for the trip to the top. There are pavements on the mountain, including one for wheelchairs, so that everyone will have equal access. I admire China’s efforts in catering for people living with disabilities. There’s a spot for them everywhere you go; toilets, sidewalks, markets, and mountains. It’s something some of our countries can really emulate China. We are way behind when it comes to empowering the disability community in The Gambia.

According to our tour guide, the cable cars, number over 90, sometimes offer up to 10,000 trips on weekends, when almost everyone is free and up to 2,000 trips per day on weekdays. This generates at least 80 million yuan every year and 60-70% of the visitors come outside Chenzhou, mainly from Guangdong. That is equivalent to 700 million Gambian dalasis. I don’t think the whole of our tourism industry’s revenue is that impressive. It is just about creativity and preserving nature. It was a lovely cable trip. The roundtrips take roughly 40 minutes. We just ascended like a wisp of smoke and marvelled at high-altitude azaleas, which blossoms in late April and Huanan wuzhensong, the South China white pines. The starting was smooth. We were just chatting and wowing at the majestic elevation into the sky. It was good until it wasn’t good. We hit a fog and the weather dramatically got 10 degrees colder. There was no part of the journey scarier than that. I couldn’t see beyond the cable and staring down was even more terrifying. It’s so transparent that I felt like the thing would vomit us midway. God, I was happy to make it to the top and even happier that it wasn’t a roundtrip. I wouldn’t have the stomach to take the trip again.

Atop the mountain is the sculpture of the laotietou, a triangular-headed snake with a white tail. If there’s one animal I cannot call beautiful, it’s definitely a snake. But the “giant panda of snakes” is actually a beautiful creature that eats only mice and birds. Explaining the story to us at the monkey king village, Dr Chen Yuanhui, fondly called Dr Snake, who discovered the creature, said it doesn’t eat frogs, unlike other snakes. This panda snake is missing a delicious meal in frogs. The snake once bit Dr Snake himself and, because he would die after three minutes if he didn’t suck the poison out, he had to cut off the bitten middle finger to prevent the poison from spreading in his body. That is the height of bravery. It could never be me. I would struggle to cut my nail much less my finger. The poison can mix with my blood for all I care. We saw the snakes live. It’s a good thing there is a glass between the creatures and us. Looking at the snake hiss, flick its tongue and slither evoked some childhood memories. It’s a funny story and a bit embarrassing, actually. I was less than 10 years old in Guinea-Bissau. As common in most rural communities, at least in Africa, we had a pit latrine dug behind the compound to discharge solid waste. I didn’t even know what a flush toilet was at the time. I will tell you this for free, there are two advantages of a pit latrine which a flush toilet doesn’t have: an aura of security. Since it is normally dug outside the compound, even if you have a running stomach, you can just comfortably drop bombs there and no one would hear you. Flush toilets are generally inside the house; that means no matter how sound-proofed it might be, you just have to sometimes suppress the bombs, otherwise, people would hear you. The second advantage is that no matter how big or ugly or strange your poop is, you don’t get to see it. You just pull down whatever you’re wearing, squat and drop it straight into the pit. Flush toilets however force you to see that thing. Ew! I frown at mine each time I stand up from the toilet seat before flushing it with anger. So, on this fateful day, I had a running stomach. I ran to the pit latrine and squatted. To provide cover, old pieces of cloth are usually wrapped around the toilet, so no one would see you naked. This particular toilet was dug under a small tree, whose branches would sometimes droop over it. So, as I enjoyed myself, dropping chemicals into the pit and smiling, somehow, I just looked up and there it was; a snake on the branch not more than a meter above my head. I didn’t know whether to die or follow my poop into the toilet. Without pulling my trousers, I shouted and ran out 100k/h. I screamed so loud that people came out to check on me. The snake was scared away, and I was embarrassed to have been in that situation. I never liked snakes since then.

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Back to Mangshan. The construction on the mountain is an engineering course of its own. The pavement is stronger than metal and, because heavy machinery couldn’t be transported to the mountain, most of the construction was hand-made. It was exceptionally built. Even the ancient trees that appeared on the planned route of the pavement were kept to protect the environment and the tree species. The contractors allowed the trees to just pinch through the footpath and into the sky without undermining the integrity of the construction. We walked up and down in the foggy weather, most of us wearing raincoats, following the Q-shaped pavement and cherishing the red stripes on either side. People take the stripes up the mountain, make a wish and then tie them. I wanted to untie someone else’s and make my own wish but I didn’t. Their wish is probably a reality now and I didn’t want to undo that.

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The mountain also has an elevator with a vertical height of 23m and 46m in length. I even learned that some scenes of Wandering Earth were shot there. From the Bagua tai which is shaped like the Arabic number 8 (٨) to the Five Fingers, Mangshan Mountain provided a refreshing experience for me. I didn’t actually see the Five Fingers clearly because of the fog; I probably only saw an elbow.

Beautifully ornamented women of the Yao ethnic minority welcomed us to the Precipice Canyon Restaurant at the foot of the mountain. I saw a variety of the Yao handicrafts and dishes, plus an amazingly curated traditional song and dance. The food looked so tempting that I had to take some to the hotel so I could taste it when I broke my fast. The only thing I recognised in the dish, however, is a small, boiled egg. The rest are mysterious, greenish and delightful.

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A dazzling end to the trip took us to the Gaoyiling scenic area, a glittering sightseeing spot that attracted nearly a million tourists in less than two years. The rocks are beautiful. The water is serene. The mountains are idyllic. The silence is romantic. It is known as a “place forgotten by god.” God forgot the wrong place. Spread across 11 square kilometres, at least 600 million yuan has been invested in the site, which lifted it to a top-tier attraction with cliff swings, via ferrata and cable bridges, one of which I crossed with my heart in my mouth. On a cable bridge, you just know you wouldn’t fall but you’re never comfortable and I felt like those ahead of me on the bridge were deliberately shaking it. Intrigue, fear and passion merged to push me to the finish line. Chenzhou is indeed a city in the forest.

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All in all, Hunan was a memorable trip. The people are nice. The foods are awesome. The hotels are divine. I cannot forget Hunan. A huge gratitude to the team of organisers.

From Beijing; Chen Dehai, counsellor at the foreign ministry who was amazing throughout and cracking jokes, our tireless Cheng Dong (everyone’s Razeen) and, of course, Cui Xiaoyi, everyone’s Miller. Both were exceptional during the trip. In Hunan, from Yueyang, Changsha to Chenzhou: Liu Zhimin, Zhu Weidi, Wang Jiaxi, Wang Xinran, Chen Yaxi, Nie Chenxiao, Wang Yang, Zuo Si, Li Qin, Huang Duo, Peng Rui, Li Yujie, Zhao Nina, Xiao Danli. Plus, the local media team; Si Yang, Weiyi Xia and everyone else whose name I didn’t get. You all deserve a cup of Chinese tea!

‘I am the choice of the people’: BAC chairmanship aspirant buoyant over chances of victory

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‘I am the choice of the people’: BAC chairmanship aspirant buoyant over chances of victory

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Ibrahim JS Sanneh, a 30-year-old aspirant for the Brikama Area Council chairmanship forthcoming election, has expressed optimism in his chances of becoming the next chairman of the biggest local government area in the country next month, describing himself as the choice of the people.

The Brikama native told The Fatu Network that he has all the credentials to become the chairman of the Brikama Area Council (BAC), outlining that he is the exact representation of the people of the West Coast Region.

“I’m the choice of the people. I’m capable and have all the required qualities to become the chairman. I’m a true representation of what our people want. The people of the west coast region want unity and development. With me, I will be able to bring in diversity, unity and equity within the council so that we will achieve our collective goal,” he explained.

According to Sanneh, political parties have created fractions in the West Coast Region, noting that his election will unite the people of the region for a common good.

When quizzed if he will rescind plans of going as an independent candidate considering the hefty financial demands of the campaign, Ibrahim noted that he is more willing to go solo now than before, saying that he will fund himself and support from friends and family.

“I’m more than willing to contest, and nothing except the will of Allah will stop me from contesting. I know that is going to cost me a lot, but I’m ready to use my personal fund and also some donations from friends and families.”

The BAC chairmanship aspirant, who will be going against candidates from the ruling National People’s Party’s Seedy Ceesay and United Democratic Party’s Yankuba Darboe plus Ahmad Gitteh, outlined that the region has a myriad of issues that he intends to solve if elected as the chairman of the Brikama Area Council.

According to him, if elected, he will do a thorough assessment of problems in the region, embark on community sensitization, digitization of taxes and build the capacity of his staff. To him, that will make up a very effective and efficient strategy system in the council, which will yield massive development in the region.

Tom rebuts sidelining ass. coach Alagie Sarr for Ebou Faye in loss to Mali

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Tom rebuts sidelining ass. coach Alagie Sarr for Ebou Faye in loss to Mali

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Reacting to video footage of him consulting Ebou Faye and Cho Drammeh on the Scorpions bench, the head coach of the senior national team of the Gambia, Tom Saintfiet, has rebutted claims that he side-lined his assistant coach Alagie Sarr to consult GFF 2nd vice president Ebou Faye and team manager Cho Drammeh in the Gambia’s two-nil lost to Mali, adding that he, in fact, requested for Ebou Faye to be part of his technical setup.

The Scorpions gaffer received a barrage of criticisms for the defeat against Mali in Bamako where video footage of him surfaced consulting Ebou Faye and Ousman Cho Drammeh instead of his assistant coach Alagie Sarr. However, he told The Fatu Network that Alagie Sarr is his first assistant coach, and he’s been part of every discussion on the bench.

“Alagie Sarr is my first assistant coach, and he was sitting on the right side and Ebou Faye on the left side of Ousman Drammeh. They were all sitting on the bench and were part of the discussion. He is involved in every discussion. I was talking to all four of them. I am not responsible for the camera view. When I talk to them, I stand in the middle to talk to all four. So, if the camera shows only one side of the two, it doesn’t mean that I was talking to only two (Ebou Faye and Cho Drammeh),” he clarified.

According to Tom Sainfeit, the presence of the second vice president of the GFF on the bench was his request, noting that he discusses team selection and tactics with everyone.

“It was on my request that Ebou Faye is part of our technical team. Ebou Faye is a football man and everyone who has something to add can help us to achieve our goals and that is what I do. I have no problem with the support of Ebou Faye,” Tom stressed.

CBG Governor Saidy, Trade Minister Address Afreximbank Gambia Trade Roadshow

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CBG Governor Saidy, Trade Minister Address Afreximbank Gambia Trade Roadshow

By: Dawda Baldeh

The governor of the Central Bank of The Gambia (CBG) Buah Saidy and Babucarr Ismaila Joof, the Minister of Trade, Industry and Regional Integration & Employment earlier today addressed a gathering at the opening of the 2023 Afreximbank Gambia Trade Roadshow held at the International Conference Center in Bijilo.

Afreximbank is a pan-African multilateral trade finance institution created in 1993 under the auspices of the African Development Bank and it is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

The event brought together central bank governors and senior banking officials across Africa and is geared towards brainstorming ideas to adopt inter-Africa trade with the theme, “Sustaining the intra-Africa Drive: Navigating through last miles.”

The event was organized by Oakeood Green Africa Limited in partnership with Gambia Investment and Export Agency (GIEPA).

Speaking on cross-border infrastructure, Buah Saidy said the Central Bank of The Gambia has conducted a light test on commercial banks’ operations of the Pan African Payment System (PAPS) for the facilitation of inter-regional trading across Africa.

“When fully launched, it will become possible to conduct inter-trading in Africa in African national currencies. With this, a Gambian can buy goods in Sierra Leone and pay in dalasis and the Sierra Leonean seller will receive payments in Leones,” he explained.

Mr Saidy added that conducting trading through PAPS platforms will not only facilitate inter-regional trading but will save the continent from payment of millions of dollars in transfer and settlement charges as well as valuation losses.

“I wish to imply Afreximbank to accelerate and intensify support in this area so that small and medium entrepreneurs can contribute to the economic growth. As such, the extension of technical and financial support to them will lead to efficient rate and improve productivity,” he emphasized.

Babucarr Ismaila Joof, the Minister of Trade, Industry, and Regional Integration & Employment, said the forum signifies the desire of the Pan Africanism of driving the African agenda in key sectors of financing.

He said Afreximbank has been the cardinal point for African governments in their collective actions to support the expansion, diversification, and promotional development of African development and trade development.

“The roadshow geared towards promoting Afreximbank mandate in The Gambia by fostering a deeper understanding of bank products in the banking and business communities will serve to reinforce and activate various initiatives aimed at driving Gambia’s participation in inter-Africa trade,” he noted.

Minister Joof described the event as a follow-up to last year’s roadshow to further open discussions with key government and business entities.

“The event will further provide the opportunity to entities that could not be engaged last year to explore possible funding or structuring support from both Afreximbank and Oakwood Green Africa Limited.

Inter-African trade has long been a topic of discussion at many levels including the African Union, ECOWAS, and other regional blocks,” he explained.

He added that for the inter-African trade to have sound effects, they must promote competitiveness, diversification, and innovation and improve productivity based on fragmentation to common currencies.

“We must also set protocols that facilitate regional trade without any pediments. The Gambia government through my ministry will continue to promote African trade through the African continental free trading,” he outlined.

Bakary Badjie challenges Mayor Bensouda to show development achievements in KM

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Bakary Badjie challenges Mayor Bensouda to show development achievements in KM

By: Lolly Sowe

Bakary Y Badjie, National People’s Party (NPP) mayoral candidate for Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC), has challenged the incumbent mayor of KMC Talib Ahmed Bensouda to show the people his development achievements within the Municipality since he came into office.

Mr. Badjie outlined that mayors, ministers, MPs, and presidents are chosen by the people depending on the development of the country.

“If you want to continue ruling the people, you need to show and tell them what you have done that will convince them to re-elect you,” he said.

He asserted that the council, under the leadership of Talib Ahmed Bensouda, has increased taxes without bringing projects for the people.

“Yet he is saying if I am elected, he will construct 23km roads, touring the region that he has projects in progress yet for 2 to 3 months nothing has been done,” he added.

“We all know that Talib is with UDP and what he does then was going to markets and giving pampers to people and helping football clubs, when he became Mayor for five years, he is neither seen nor part of any program.

Now that election is fast approaching, he is giving sugar, rice, and bags of cement to people thinking he will get what he gets in 2018,” Bakary claimed.

The NPP-chosen contestant added that if the football fields are under the council, why is Bensouda distributing bags of cement to the football committee a few weeks from the elections?

“The Iftar he is giving to people isn’t real because he is doing it for the coming election because there were 4 passed months of Ramadan that he doesn’t give Iftar to people,” Bakary said.

“They are telling people that the revenue of the council increased three-hundred million when they came in, but they are not telling people that the money is coming from people,” he noted.

He said that if taxes, trade licenses, and duties before were D5, they are now D10, adding that rental boutiques of D500 to D1000 have jumped to D2000 and that they will be receiving D3000 soon.

Badjie added that the service the council is doing with the money should be the question because he remembers Lie Conteh’s time when he built Latrikunda Germany market, ‘Marseh Ngelew, Serrekunda market, Talinding, Bakau, and Ebo town markets, adding that Lie built Serrekunda East mini stadium, Serrekunda West mini stadium, and Manjai park.

He further went on to say that when Yankuba Colley came, he built the Abuko market, Old Jeshwang market, Talinding Sika market, the new market at Latrikunda Sabiji, and Charles Jaw senior school.

NPP’s Kebba Dem to face off UDP’s Landing Sanneh for MKAC Chairmanship

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NPP’s Kebba Dem to face off UDP’s Landing Sanneh for MKAC Chairmanship

The National People’s Party (NPP) has elected Mr Kebba Dem to contest for the Chairmanship of the Mansakonko Area Council slated for 20th May. He will be hoping to unseat Landing Sanneh of the United Democratic Party, who is seeking re-election.
Dem, a native of Dongor Ba Village, Jarra East, Lower River Region, was elected at a primary held by the Party. After voting, Mr Dem got 32 votes against Kebba Darboe who got 17 votes.

Kebba Dem has promised an all-inclusive development for the people of the Lower River Region if elected. He thanked the party for the trust and voted to deliver to expectations. He calls on the people of LRR to vote for him to bring about live-changing developments.

Mr Kebba Dem attended Dongoro- Ba Primary school and Sifoe Primary School, where he was the Head Boy and Assistant Head Boy, respectively.

He enrolled in The Gambia High School in 1987 for the GCE O LEVELS and completed in 1972. He later enrolled at The Gambia Hotel School for a Front Office Technology course, Diploma level from 1992 to 1994.

He picked up a job as a receptionist at Physical Therapy Center at Kairaba Beach Hotel in 1994, where he rose through the ranks to become General Manager until 2008 when he acquired the Centre and became the Chief Executive Officer.

In 2007, the NPP Candidate enrolled at the Management Development Institute (MDI) for a Diploma in management, before pursuing a Higher Diploma in Management at the same Institute.
Kebba Dem holds a BSc in Management in 2016. He is a trained business advisor, coach and mentor. He is also the founder and CEO of Golden Hands Foundation, which has trained and coached many youths in skills development from 2014 to date.

IEC levied D200 charge on voter replacement

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IEC levied D200 charge on voter replacement

By: Dawda Baldeh

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has levied a two hundred dalasis (D200) charge on voter replacement starting from Friday, March 31 to 7th April 2023.

The voter replacement process will take place at the IEC regional offices in Banjul, Kanifing, Brikama, Kerewan, Mansakonko, Janjangbureh, Basse, and the election house in Kanifing, the agency said.

“Replacement of voting cards will attract a fine of two hundred dalasis (D200). Cards to be replaced are those issues during the General Registration of voter cards held from 29th May 2021 to 11th July 2021.

“Replacement can only be done in person i.e., voters who wish to apply for replacement are to do so by themselves,” the press statement from the IEC emphasized.

In a few weeks, Gambians will go to the polls for the election of councillors, mayors, and chairpersons for their respective wards across the seven administrative regions in the country.

KMC Youth Councillor on President Barrow & his team

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KMC Youth Councillor on President Barrow & his team

Editor’s note: The opinions or facts therein expressed in this publication are those of the author. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of The Fatu Network.

By: Cllr Kemo Bojang, KMC Youth Councillor

We have been reliably informed that Barrow’s team just met every Alakalo in KM at Pa Omar Faal’s residence in Latirkunda and asked for their support in the coming local government elections. During the meeting, the team mentioned that they’ll build 100km of roads and claimed Mayor Bensouda and UDP are obstructing his development plans for KMC.

What this has shown us is that President Barrow has no love for the country and the people of the Kanifing municipality. If truly he is ready for what he has been calling for which is unity and development, our region being in the hands of the opposition should not be a hindrance to development. Mayor Bensouda has never altered or diverted development because it was meant for a ward or constituency that isn’t under the control of the UDP.

Why can’t the president learn or borrow a leaf from the pages of the Lord Mayor? In the areas that the president has claimed we are an obstruction to his development in urban Gambia, is the president acknowledging that he is weak and cannot assert his authority? Has he forgotten that the Banjul project was executed under the watchful eyes of an opposition mayor in Banjul? Why did he not complain then? If it can be done in Banjul, why not KMC?

Is he proving to us that he and his government are in disarray? If a council can stand in his way and obstruct his supposed development agenda. Going further, I find this hypocritical because there’s no law or power that councils have in stopping the central government from executing its functions in regions. It is the other way around.

President Barrow and his government have refused to subvent us, they have refused to acknowledge our work and even see us as partners in development, they are not interested in developing KMC and the Gambia, they are only interested in grabbing power.

Another flaw in the statement of his team is if indeed they are being truthful and frank to themselves and the Gambian people, why haven’t Brikama and Kuntaur been the best regional governments of the Gambia in terms of development because these two areas are under his control. Ironically, these two area councils are the least performing according to the just concluded CEPRASS survey.

At the end of the meeting, he gave every alkali D2500, I want to remind all Alkalis that you have been promised and failed multiple times, you have been promised salaries here and never given, all they told you today are not factualities but rather alternative truths. The 2,500 given to you today is your share of the national cake, I expect you to be the dignified traditional leaders you’ve always shown to be and do what is right and honouring for your people and the people of Kanifing.

Karpowership donates food items worth $10,000 to orphanage centres

Hadram Hydara
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By: Dawda Baldeh

Karpowership on Saturday 1st April 2023 presented a donation of food items worth over ten thousand ($10,000) dollars to three orphanage centres as part of its cooperate social responsibility to the Gambians.

The presentation was held at the Karpowership office in Kairaba Avenue and was presided over by Tolga Bemerk, Turkey’s Ambassador to the Gambia.

Giving charity during Ramadan is a way for Muslims to fulfil their religious duties. It is also a way to show compassion and solidarity with those who are in need to help reduce poverty and their suffering.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Ambassador Tolga Bemerk, described Ramadan as a month of giving, blessing, solidarity, and brotherhood, saying it brings people together.

“This is a month when two billion Muslims in the world come together to share their happiness, and food, and pray together. Karpowership Company has extended its helping hand to needy people in the Gambia. The donation is timely as the foodstuffs are needed,” he said.

He told journalists that Karpowership is well known in the Gambia for its social cooperate responsibility projects. “We admire them and hope they will continue their project activities as long as they are here,” he emphasized.

The items presented to the orphanage include 103 bags of 50kg rice, 103 bags of 50kg sugar, 100 gallons of 10ltrs oil, 103 sachets of milk, as well as 100 boxes of Tunisian dates.

Emre Durmusoglu, Karpowership Africa Regional Director, underscores the significance of the gesture.

“I thanked the orphanage management teams for accepting the gesture. Since we signed our contract with NAWEC in 2018, we are trying to support orphanages with our social cooperate responsibility projects. Karpowership has donated over four hundred and fifty thousand dollars to the Gambia. We believe as long as Karpowership is here we will continue to support the needy,” he said.

Mr. Durmusoglu added that the donation will help address food demands for the beneficiaries.

In a jubilant mood, the beneficiaries expressed their profound gratitude to Karpowership for what they described as a lifetime gift.

Imam Muhammed Secka, who spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries, said the donation has come at a time when it is highly needed.

“We are very delighted to receive the food items from Karpowership. The donation has not come at a better time than this because rice, sugar, milk, oil, and dates are what the orphanages need at the time,” he noted.

Imam Secka added that only Allah can reward Karpowership for the kind gesture. He assured the donors that the donation will be utilized for the intended purpose.

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