Friday, July 11, 2025
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Right-holders in NBR Voice Frustration Over Service Delivery Failures

By Alieu Jallow

Residents of the North Bank Region (NBR) have raised serious concerns over the inadequate delivery of essential services by key public institutions during a two-day technical advisory interface held at the Governor’s Office in Kerewan.

The dialogue, supported by ActionAid International, The Gambia, aimed to bridge the gap between duty bearers and right-holders by offering a platform for open discussion on governance and development challenges in the region.

Participants voiced grievances on a wide range of issues from access to quality health and education services to youth empowerment, agriculture, and the management of natural resources.

Jainaba Bah, an executive member of the North Bank Sports Association, highlighted the continued neglect of women’s sports in the region. She noted that the NBR 2nd Division Female Football Team plays all its matches in Soma due to a lack of local infrastructure. “This comes at a heavy cost,” she said, raising questions about what plans the council has in place to support the regional team.

In response, Alhagie K. Saho, Vice Chairperson of the Kerewan Area Council, acknowledged the challenges but said efforts are underway to address them. He cited plans to allocate new stalls at the recently acquired market along the Senegambia corridor. He mentioned ongoing discussions about providing incentives for young people to take up community cleaning roles.

On the issue of sports infrastructure, Vice Chair Saho clarified that it is not the council’s direct responsibility to invest in regional football, as this falls under the Ministry of Youth and Sports. However, he referenced the council’s support for the renovation of the Farafenni Mini Stadium. He also admitted that financial constraints continue to limit the council’s ability to fully support local sports initiatives.

Forest degradation was another hot topic during the discussions. Bisenty Mendy of Kasewe accused some forestry officers of colluding with illegal loggers, claiming that reports submitted by community members are often ignored.

Regional forest officer Buba Kanteh rejected the allegations, stating that most illegal logging is carried out by villagers with insider connections, often without the knowledge of the forestry office. He emphasised that forest parks are managed by Village Development Committees, and his department only acts on reports received from local forestry committees.

Concerns over agricultural sustainability also emerged. Youth participant from the Global platform, Ali Nget, questioned the long-term impact of government-led farming projects, which he said often collapse without proper exit strategies or community ownership.

Responding to these concerns, Karamo Minteh, the Regional Agricultural Director, acknowledged some of the challenges and said the Ministry of Agriculture is shifting away from over-reliance on tractor ploughing due to its negative effects on soil health. He noted that the ministry is now introducing lighter and more sustainable farming implements.

Organisers and officials concluded that the interface was a crucial step in promoting accountability and participatory governance. However, they stressed that real progress depends on turning dialogue into concrete action that addresses the needs of the people.

Invincible: Sarah Jarju’s Last-Gasp Heroics Crown Berewuleng FC as GFF Women’s League Champions

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

In a heart-stopping finale that will be etched in Gambian football history, Sarah Jarju’s 90+2-minute curling stunner secured a dramatic 2-1 victory for Berewuleng FC against TMT, clinching their first-ever Gambia Football Federation (GFF) Women’s National League Division One title in style — undefeated in 18 league matches. As the GFF competition department, certain the match was destined for a draw, began whisking the trophy from Brikama to Yundum to crown table-toppers Red Scorpions, Jarju embarked on a mesmerizing solo run, outpacing her marker and unleashing a shot that curled into legend, rewriting the script in the final breath of the season.

“When I saw the gap, I knew it was now or never. My heart said,” Sarah Jarju declared, her words capturing her last-gasp winner.

The match was a rollercoaster of emotions. TMT shocked the favorites in the 62nd minute with a thunderous strike from Laize Emboloco, threatening to derail Berewuleng’s title dreams. Undeterred, Jarju equalized in the 69th minute, showcasing her season-long brilliance. With the clock ticking and Red Scorpions poised to claim the title, Jarju rose to the occasion once more, her last-gasp winner rewriting the script and cementing her status as the season’s standout player.

A Journey of Resilience and Tactical Brilliance

Berewuleng’s triumph is a testament to the vision and grit of head coach Fakebba Saine, who has ushered in a new era for Gambian women’s football. For over a decade, the league was dominated by coaching giants Choro Mbenga of Red Scorpions and Mariama Bom of Police FC, formerly Interior. This season, Saine broke their stranglehold, guiding Berewuleng to a historic title with a blend of discipline, tactical nous, and unyielding belief.

Formed in 2017 to compete in the West Coast Regional Football Association third division qualifiers, Berewuleng’s rise has been meteoric yet hard-fought. “We assembled players within a week and booked a place in the league,” Saine recalled. After struggling in the second division due to an inexperienced squad, the team spent three years building a foundation. Their promotion to the first division in 2021 came with skepticism: five key players departed, and many predicted relegation. Defying the odds, Berewuleng finished third in their debut season, followed by back-to-back second-place finishes in 2023 and 2024. “I told my players we cannot be second-best forever,” Saine said. “Our target this season was to win the league.”

Saine’s focus on defensive solidity was pivotal. After conceding heavily last season, Berewuleng analyzed game footage, tightened their backline, and boasted the league’s best defense in 2025, conceding just six goals in 18 matches. “We identified those games, analyzed them with the players, and it worked,” Saine explained. This defensive resilience, paired with Jarju’s attacking flair, propelled Berewuleng to glory.

Leading with Heart: Managing a Female Team

Managing a women’s team comes with unique challenges, but Saine’s commitment has been unwavering. “It’s all about dedication,” he said. “You don’t have to care about every negative stone thrown at you. Just focus on what you believe in.” Saine fosters strong relationships with players’ parents and guardians, ensuring their support and prioritizing player safety, such as ensuring players reach home before Maghreb prayer after matches in the Kombos. His approach has earned him admiration, with Sarjo Sowe, Berewuleng’s Secretary General, calling him “a genius” and “a father figure” to the squad. “The way he manages these players is incredible,” Sowe said. “As a community, we are proud of this feat.”

A Community United in Triumph

Berewuleng’s victory is more than a sporting achievement; it’s a unifying force for the community. “Winning the league means a lot to us,” Sowe emphasized. “The whole community united for the cause.” Since its inception in 2017, Berewuleng FC has been a community-driven project, culminating in two trophies: the second division title and now the 2025 first division crown. The community’s support was unwavering throughout the season, fueling the team’s remarkable journey.

Looking Ahead: Continental Ambitions

With the league title secured, Berewuleng is now setting its sights on the continental stage. The club will equally shift their focus to the FF Cup and on preparing for CAF women’s competitions as Gambia’s representatives. Under Saine’s leadership and with Jarju’s star power, Berewuleng is poised to make waves beyond Gambia’s borders.

Sarah Jarju’s heroics and Fakebba Saine’s tactical masterclass have not only crowned Berewuleng as champions but also heralded a new chapter in Gambian women’s football. This is a story of resilience, belief, and a community united — a triumph that will inspire generations to come.

Kudang Refutes Idol Worship Allegations, Upholds Historical Sites at Cultural Festival

By Dawda Baldeh

Residents of Kudang in the Niamina East Constituency have rejected allegations of idol worship and strongly defended their historical sites during the ongoing centuries-old cultural festival (Munkutuwo), where a locally baked rice dish is served to honour their heritage.

This festival, deeply rooted in the community for centuries, has received both widespread praise and criticism. The community boasts four historical sites located in the east, west, north, and partly in the south-north, which are believed to hold important secrets for the village.

These sites include Namasita, Masing Kolong, and Berebatosisa. Elders denied the claims of idol worship as they responded to questions from reporters. In the morning, women gathered under trees to prepare the Munko (baked rice), to pray for a bountiful rainy season.

“This is a tradition we inherited from our ancestors. It’s beyond imagination. When the rains are near, we hold this Munkutuwo to pray for a fruitful rainy season,” stated Nyara Fanneh, an elderly woman.

Mrs. Fanneh, a cultural leader in the community, described the ‘Munkutuwo festival’ as a distinctive tradition unique to Kudang.

“Whenever we celebrate the Munkutuwo festival, we experience a bountiful harvest in our farms and rice fields,” she remarked. “We also pray for peace in the country. We are farmers and we believe in this.”

For individuals like her, this occasion serves as a time to celebrate, reflect on their ancestral heritage, and preserve it for future generations.

After the morning activities, the village leaders visited the sacred sites to commemorate the event.

Futa Camara, the village’s adopted father, emphasised that the celebration highlights the significance of cultural preservation. “This is not idol worship… it’s a reverence for our culture. These sites serve as protectors for us,” he clarified.

Mr. Camara further noted that the sites were passed down from their ancestors and provide protection and fortune to the community and anyone seeking their blessings.

“To seek blessings from this place, you must come with someone from Marena Kunda. Anything you request by the grace of Allah will be granted. It depends on your intentions, but this is pure and has nothing to do with idol worship,” he added.

Kemeseng Marena, a youth mobilizer in the village, expressed the desire to preserve this culture for future generations.

“These sites are more than mere locations; they protect us and bring significant prosperity to the community. When this event approaches, we are alerted through the sites because they communicate with us,” he told reporters.

The community firmly believes that these inherited spiritual sites hold the village’s secrets.

“I was born into this tradition, and it is our strength, secret, and identity,” he remarked.

Known as a place where prayers are answered, Namasita is also thought to possess spiritual powers that can harm anyone who fails to honour a promise made after their issue is resolved.

“Once you make a promise to fulfil after your problem is solved, you must do so once you are satisfied. If you choose to disregard it, you will face consequences. A ram will appear in your dream to warn you three times, and if you don’t fulfil it, you will die,” warned Futa Camara, the village’s paternal figure.

Each secret site is under the custody of different families in Kudang.

The festival offers a truly immersive cultural experience, featuring a wide array of traditional events and performances that are a treat for both participants and spectators.

A Region on Pause: High Court Freezes Football in URR in Legal Showdown

By Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

In a landmark ruling that has sent shockwaves through the Gambian football community, the High Court of The Gambia has ordered a suspension of all football activities in the Upper River Region (URR), affecting competitions organised by the Upper River Region Football Association (URRFA). The ruling, handed down on June 25, follows a fierce legal dispute involving four local clubs: Kuteh Jonbul FC, Niomuta United FC, Briffu FC, and Tabanding FC. The court’s verdict halts not only the URRFA’s Third Division League and its upcoming elective congress but also underscores deeper concerns over governance, fairness, and adherence to the rule of law within the realm of Gambian sports. 

The Spark of the Dispute

The saga began in September 2024, when the four clubs participated in a capacity-building training program organised by the district sports committee and led by Team Restore Confidence (TRC). Spearheaded by TRC chairman Sadibou Kamaso, the day-long workshop in Basse, aimed to equip club administrators with critical skills in governance, management, and operational strategies. Kamaso emphasised the importance of such training for fostering sustainable leadership and grassroots football development, urging participants to apply their newfound knowledge to elevate their clubs.

However, the URRFA viewed the clubs’ participation as an act of defiance. The association had explicitly warned the clubs against attending the training, alleging it violated their regulations. In response, the URRFA expelled the four clubs from the Third Division League and barred them from all football activities under its jurisdiction. The clubs, stunned by what they deemed an unjust and heavy-handed punishment, argued that their participation was lawful and aimed at advancing football development in the region.

The Legal Battle Unfolds

The civil suit, filed on 21 March 2025 and led by counsel J. Jobarteh, challenges the “validity and lawfulness” of the expulsion. The aggrieved clubs demanded reinstatement into the Third Division League and a declaration that a URRFA constitutional clause barring access to ordinary courts is “null and void”. They further sought an interlocutory injunction to suspend both the ongoing Third Division League and the URRFA’s elective congress, which is scheduled for 4 May 2025, until the matter is resolved.

The URRFA, represented by counsel A. Fatty, responded on 13 May with a motion to stay the proceedings. The association argues that the clubs failed to exhaust internal dispute resolution mechanisms, as outlined in Articles 17.3 to 17.5 of the URRFA Constitution, as well as in the statutes of the Gambia Football Federation (GFF) and FIFA.

Citing the option to appeal to the URRFA General Assembly or escalate the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) under FIFA, the URRFA maintains that the High Court lacked jurisdiction. It warned that allowing the case to proceed would set a “dangerous precedent” for football governance both regionally and internationally.

The Court’s Ruling: A Game-Changer

In a meticulously reasoned ruling, Justice Coker navigated the complex interplay between the clubs’ right to seek justice and the URRFA’s insistence on internal remedies. The court granted the clubs’ request for an interlocutory injunction, restraining the URRFA from continuing the Third Division League for the 2024/2025 season or holding its elective congress until the substantive suit is resolved. Simultaneously, the court upheld the URRFA’s motion to stay the proceedings, directing both parties to pursue internal dispute resolution mechanisms as outlined in the URRFA Constitution.

The ruling highlighted a critical point: the “res”, the continuation of the league and the elective congress, must be preserved to prevent irreparable harm while the dispute is resolved. With the league season set to conclude on June 30, 2025, the court noted that the timeline had lost relevance, but the broader implications for fairness and governance in Gambian football remain at stake.

The court also addressed a preliminary issue raised by the clubs’ counsel, who accused the URRFA of “approbating and reprobating” by challenging the court’s jurisdiction while simultaneously seeking its intervention. While acknowledging this argument, Justice Coker emphasised that the court’s role was to ensure justice without prejudicing the substantive claims, which include allegations that the URRFA violated its own constitutional procedures for suspensions and expulsions.

A Region on Pause

The High Court’s decision has put football in the URR in a state of uncertainty, leaving fans, players, and administrators grappling with unpredictable outcomes. The Third Division League, a vital platform for grassroots talent, is currently suspended, and the elections for the leadership of the URRFA are on hold. For the four clubs involved, the ruling presents a bittersweet victory: while their expulsion is still being examined, their potential reinstatement depends on the results of internal negotiations or further legal actions.

The case has sparked heated debates across the region. Supporters of the clubs argue that the URRFA’s actions reflect an abuse of power and a resistance to progressive training initiatives. “These clubs were trying to improve themselves for the good of football,” said one local fan, who requested anonymity. “Expelling them without a fair hearing is unfair and kills the spirit of the game.” Meanwhile, URRFA defenders insist that the clubs’ defiance of directives warranted disciplinary action and that internal mechanisms should resolve such disputes to maintain order in football governance.

The Road Ahead

The case is adjourned until October 14, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., when the court will review the progress of the internal dispute resolution process. Both parties are now tasked with engaging in good-faith negotiations under the URRFA’s constitutional framework, with the possibility of escalating the matter to FIFA’s Court of Arbitration for Sport if internal remedies fail.

This legal standoff raises broader questions about the balance between autonomy and accountability in sports governance. As the URRFA and the clubs prepare for their next moves, the eyes of Gambian football fans remain fixed on Basse, where the future of the region’s beloved sport hangs in the balance.

For now, the pitch is silent, but the battle in the courtroom is just heating up.

National Assembly Committees Target Ministers Sanyang and Jobe in Russian Oil Investigation Fallout

Written by: Seringe S.T. Touray

The National Assembly has moved decisively against alleged obstruction of the $30 million Russian oil scandal investigation, with lawmakers Thursday authorizing censure proceedings targeting two cabinet ministers.

The scandal involves allegations of irregular petroleum transactions worth US $30 million, initially flagged by the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) for suspicious activity. The investigation began last July when Lower Saloum National Assembly Member (NAM) Sainey Jawara tabled a motion to establish a commission to probe the alleged illegal importation of approximately 36,935.614 tonnes of petroleum—valued at US $30 million—into The Gambia by three companies: Apogee FZC, a Dubai-based company later registered locally as Apogee Company Limited; Creed Energy Limited, a company registered in The Gambia; and Ultimate Beige Logistics, also registered in The Gambia under the name Ultimate Beige Logistic (Gambia) Company Limited.

National Assembly investigators have assembled evidence suggesting systematic attempts to derail criminal investigations into suspicious petroleum transactions. The committees documented what they described as “serious procedural violations, inconsistencies, and evidence of interference during the investigation, which in turn revealed weaknesses in criminal investigations, institutional accountability, and oversight within the police force.”

Interior Minister Abdoulie Sanyang, who transitioned from his previous role as Inspector General of Police (IGP), now faces allegations from National Assembly committees regarding a potential conflict of interest.

The committee noted that Minister Sanyang “failed to give a full disclosure of his involvement in the matter and gave a ‘contradictory statement'” when he claimed that he was not formally informed of the FIU report’s investigation and only became aware of the report during an informal conversation with Pa Alieu Jawara, the Commissioner of Special Investigation Unit (SIU) of the police. However, evidence showed he minuted the said FIU report to the SIU and also received a call from Minister Abdoulie Jobe informing him that one of their international traders [Aurimas Steiblys] was in police custody.

Meanwhile, Tourism Minister Abdoulie Jobe—previously responsible for petroleum policy—faces allegations from the committee. The committee said Minister Jobe “may have committed misconduct in office” in his role in the purported government policy that allowed owners of the Russian oil Apogee FZC to deposit their product at the Gam Petroleum depot, giving them a monopoly over local oil marketing companies who were forced to switch at a high financial cost from buying directly from their traditional international traders to Apogee.

The committee revealed that this purported government policy did not go through the due consultative process required and there was no evidence of its approval by cabinet, even though Minister Jobe claimed that it was discussed there. Lawmakers also reported that the minister allegedly interfered in the police investigations following the arrest of the principal suspect in the case, Mr Aurimas Steiblys, who was arrested, detained briefly and released without charges before he reportedly absconded.

Beyond the ministerial censures, the committee made sweeping recommendations for sanctions against multiple institutions and individuals. The committee recommended for the immediate suspension of the General manager of Gam Petroleum, Yoro Jallow, and initiation of criminal perjury proceedings against him for “deliberately misleading” the National Assembly. The committee found that Jallow allegedly acted as an agent for Apogee FZC in the sale of the oil, was allegedly not truthful in his testimony, and was allegedly complicit in “institutional failures” and “conflicts of interest” that facilitated “preferential treatment, regulatory evasion, and monopolistic practices” in favour of Apogee FZC.

Rather than pursuing informal disciplinary measures, the National Assembly has opted for the more serious step of formal censure proceedings—a mechanism that carries significant political and potential legal ramifications. Regarding the Interior Minister, the report states: “The National Assembly should initiate proceedings to censure the Minister for Interior, Hon. Abdoulie Sanyang (former Inspector General of the Police), for his alleged role in prematurely halting the police investigation in the report of the Financial Intelligence Unit, and for failing to keep proper command authority in the handling of the investigation.”

For the Tourism Minister, the National Assembly declared: “The National Assembly initiates censure proceedings against the Former Minister of Petroleum, Abdoulie Jobe, who may have committed misconduct in office in his role in the purported policy (MOPE/GOGP/PP/002) as referenced in the letter dated 30th October 2023 and interference into the police investigations.”

National Assembly committees have outlined sweeping changes to petroleum sector oversight, with the report stating: “All purported petroleum policies be reviewed by Cabinet, formalized, and gazetted henceforth before implementation.” The reforms include mandatory competitive processes for import applications, with the report specifying: “That all ullage applications should be subject to competitive review. Any Ministry official found complicit in supporting exclusivity deals must be subjected to administrative disciplinary measures.”

The committee also found that a number of public and private institutions allegedly failed in carrying out their duties and due diligence in the oil saga, including the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, Central Bank of The Gambia, Gambia Revenue Authority, Gambia Ports Authority, Ecobank and Access Bank Gambia. Consequently, the committee recommended for the executive to administratively hold the heads of the police, Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) and the Central Bank to account for their inaction following receipt of intelligence report from the FIU.

The Attorney General has received a 90-day mandate to establish an independent investigation panel focusing on police conduct during the original probe. The report directs: “The Attorney General and Minister for Justice constitute a special panel to further investigate the conduct of Officer Commanding, Mr. Pa Alieu Jawara, in the investigation into the report of the Financial Intelligence Unit” and “The Attorney General and Minister for Justice constitute a special panel independent to investigate the procedure adopted by the police in the investigation of the STR report against Mr. Aurimas and report to the National Assembly within 90 days of the tabling of this report.”

The National Assembly has warned that non-compliance with its directives will trigger progressive sanctions. The report explicitly states: “Failure to comply with these resolutions shall attract consequences, including administrative sanctions, suspension, dismissal, or criminal prosecution as applicable.”

From Risk to Readiness: NDMA Empowers Riverbelt Communities to Hold Back the Floods

Written by: Alieu Jallow

As climate change continues to drive erratic weather and rising waters, the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) is stepping up efforts to protect vulnerable communities. On Friday, 27th June 2025, the agency launched a three-day capacity-building workshop for volunteers living along the river belt, focusing on sensitization around flood barriers and disaster preparedness.

Held in partnership with the GREAT Institute and supported by the British High Commission, the training is part of a wider project aimed at “Building resilience to climate shocks to reduce internal and irregular migration in The Gambia,” funded to the tune of £150,000.

Delivering the keynote address, NDMA Executive Director Sanna Dahaba emphasized the growing urgency of proactive disaster risk reduction in the face of worsening climate conditions.

“As climate change accelerates and weather patterns grow more unpredictable, the need for preparation has never been more urgent,” Dahaba said. “River rise floods are not just natural events; they are sometimes human-triggered by our own lack of readiness. They destroy farmland, damage homes, displace families, and disrupt livelihoods. But we are not powerless,” he stated.

He highlighted flood barriers as one of the most effective defenses against rising river waters.

“These structures, whether permanent or temporary, act as shields, holding back waters that would otherwise engulf our streets, homes, and hotels. But a flood barrier is only as strong as the community that understands and supports it. Everyone, from children to the elderly, must know how they work, why they matter, and how to act when flood warnings are issued,” he outlined.

Dahaba also raised concerns about climate-induced migration, warning that environmental threats are becoming a major driver of displacement along riverine communities. He urged continuous sensitization efforts, stressing that building resilience goes beyond one-off workshops.

“Awareness is not a one-time event. It’s a continuous process of engagement, trust-building, and shared responsibility. Let us build not just barriers against floods, but bridges of understanding and cooperation,” Dahaba stressed.

The training drew volunteers from flood-prone communities across the river belt, equipping them with practical knowledge and tools to better respond to emergencies.

Olly Touray, a community worker and participant, said the sessions would improve her outreach work.

“The knowledge gained will help me educate others on flood prevention and make our communities safer,” she stated.

Abdoulie Boto Gaye, chairperson of the Sanyang Village Development Committee and managing director of Sanyang Ecotourism Camp, described the training as timely and impactful. He pledged to organize a step-down training in his community in partnership with the NDMA.

“Our Village Development Committee (VDC) will partner with the National Disaster Management Agency to carry out community sensitization at the grassroots level. We plan to hold these sessions at the community ground, where their presence will add great value. With this collaboration, we aim to reach all 14,000 residents of Kombo Sanyang so that everyone is informed, aware, and prepared,” he outlined.

As The Gambia braces for the rainy season, the NDMA’s message is clear: preparedness starts with people. And when communities are informed, equipped, and engaged, they don’t just survive disasters—they help prevent them.

“The System is Polluted”: Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe’s Testimony Reveals Structural Weaknesses in Gambian Local Government

Written by: Seringe S.T. Touray

In a testimony before the Local Government Commission of Inquiry on Wednesday, June 25th, Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe of Banjul City Council (BCC) described various aspects of local government operations in The Gambia, outlining structural issues that have affected governance at the municipal level. The session was led by Patrick Gomez, the commission’s lead counsel.

The testimony addressed gaps between legal frameworks and actual practice in local government administration, detailing how mayors have been operating within constraints despite holding positions of formal authority.

Mayor Lowe’s testimony centered on the practical limitations of mayoral power within local councils. Despite legal provisions establishing hierarchical structures, she testified that the actual operations of councils often differ from statutory requirements.

“The CEOs and the administration have people behind them. If I say I don’t have powers, please believe me,” Mayor Lowe explained, describing how Chief Executive Officers function in day-to-day operations. This power dynamic has created a system where mayors often assume ceremonial roles, while technical staff control critical decisions.

The mayor described her attempts to engage with the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development: “You write to the ministry complaining about something, and they will tell you directly, ‘Don’t ever write us. The CEO has the authority to write us.’ So there are a lot of frustrations in council.”

This statement indicates how the governance structure has been implemented, with mayors finding themselves excluded from communications with higher authorities. Mayor Lowe’s testimony detailed the impact of these limitations: “If you have a CEO who doesn’t have respect, he will relegate you, and this is the truth.”

A significant portion of the testimony focused on what appeared to be a procedural issue—the non-forwarding of Senior Management Team (SMT) meeting minutes to the mayor. This issue revealed aspects of information flow and accountability within the council.

“Most of my communications with the ministry, I just go talk to them, the permanent secretary, and I come back and sit down. But from this commission I learned that writing is very good,” Mayor Lowe testified, acknowledging her previous reliance on informal communication channels.

She further explained the nature of verbal briefings: “What I would like to establish here is that he will not give us the minutes, but he will explain to us directly what has happened. That is the gap—we don’t have something in writing. What happens is that one person says this and the other one says that.”

This practice of relying on undocumented agreements created situations where accountability became difficult to establish, as Mayor Lowe acknowledged: “There are gentleman agreements, which I’m not trying to say should happen.”

The testimony also addressed financial management and expenditure authority. It detailed a disconnect between legal provisions and practical implementation regarding spending limits and approval processes. Additional testimony revealed further complications in financial procedures, including misunderstandings about basic financial concepts and authorization processes.

Despite legal requirements for councils to establish monetary spending limits that determine what level of authority is required for different expenditure amounts, Mayor Lowe stated that Banjul City Council had not effectively implemented such measures. When questioned about her efforts to establish these financial controls, she testified:

“I have written to say that if their spending amounts to something, let them inform me. I wrote a memo to the CEO. I cannot remember exactly, but it’s more than three times. I cannot remember exactly how much I wrote, but I know that it doesn’t work.”

When asked about appropriate monetary limits above which she should be consulted, the mayor suggested amounts between D200,000 and D300,000: “It might be D200,000 or D300,000. I can’t answer why that is. What I did was make an effort to know what is going on, but it’s supposed to be a mandatory directive. It’s supposed to be a practice that must happen. In the language of the law, it must happen.”

Her testimony regarding the failure to implement financial controls included: “Now you have written several times, the CEO must follow, and it was never followed. Who is at fault? I can’t tell exactly.”

The testimony also revealed issues with delegation and payment authorization. Mayor Lowe acknowledged situations where staff members initiated financial requests using her authority without her direct involvement.

Additionally, the testimony addressed confusion about financial classifications. “We thought that it was an imprest,” she stated, referring to how certain payments were categorized by her team. An imprest system is typically used for small, urgent expenses that cannot wait for normal procurement procedures. However, Mayor Lowe later acknowledged that the issue stemmed from the choice of words, explaining that all payments were generally categorized as imprest, regardless of whether they met the criteria for urgent or emergency expenses. She added that this practice is still ongoing.

The testimony further addressed confusion about advisory roles versus decision-making authority. Mayor Lowe described consulting with the Chief Executive Officer on payment decisions, referring to “advisory input.” However, testimony revealed that “advice from the CEO is not binding.” When asked about rejections of her requests, Mayor Lowe stated that “more of her vouchers were rejected than approved,” although she acknowledged that she did not document these interactions.

Mayor Lowe’s testimony indicated that the problems at Banjul City Council were part of broader operational patterns. In one of her statements, she declared: “What I want to tell you is that the system is polluted. I’m not talking about others—I am specifically talking about my own council. You will not know some of the things that happened, but later I think all those things will be revealed.”

The mayor’s description of the council’s operational challenges included: “When we came into office, we didn’t even have a single page of handover notes, and most of us were new. If you check, probably 90% of what we have done was wrong. We were moving and doing things thinking, ‘Okay, these people were doing it like this, so let us follow them.’ That is how they were doing it, and that is how we were doing it.”

This cycle of inherited practices has created what the mayor described as a gap between legal requirements and operational reality. She acknowledged the guidance that proper legal frameworks could provide: “The law will guide you if you follow it. It’s not perfect—it has so many areas that need to be reviewed to help you in administration on a daily basis—but it’s more perfect than not having or not following regulations.”

The testimony also addressed Mayor Lowe’s knowledge about EU-funded projects within her jurisdiction. Her statement indicated the extent to which mayors have been informed about such activities: “I saw people who passed here before me—witnesses, more than 20 of them—talking about the EU project. I am at the city council, but I don’t know them. I have never met them. I only saw them sitting here before the commission.” This situation represents a gap in local government information sharing, as elected officials remained uninformed about major activities in their jurisdictions.

Throughout her testimony, Mayor Lowe acknowledged shortcomings in her knowledge and expressed a willingness to learn. She stated that the commission had helped her understand the importance of proper documentation and formal procedures. “From this commission I learned a lot, and I realized that writing is very important,” she testified.

She also conveyed appreciation for the commission’s role in shedding light on administrative processes. “What I want to assure you is the respect that I have for this commission and the appreciation that I have for this commission. It seems the commission came specifically for me to learn. I will have nothing to hide, and however difficult it is, I will tell you this is how it happened because I learned a lot,” she said.

In response to questions about her leadership, Mayor Lowe emphasized her approach to responsibility and transparency. “As a leader, you take responsibility. I take the responsibility. I used to sit in my room listening to this commission, and normally I learn a lot. I used to hear things that my council was not doing,” she explained. Reflecting on her role, she added, “I am the one sitting in this position. I don’t want to sit here and be very shameful and later try to make excuses. I would be very ashamed to do that here. I learned a lot, and as I said, what you learn as a leader—when you agree to do something, you need to make it clear.”

Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe’s testimony before the Local Government Commission of Inquiry revealed challenges in legal framework implementation, mayoral authority, and financial controls within Gambian local government. Her statements suggested that governance improvements would require both structural reforms and cultural changes in operations. The commission’s findings may inform future decisions on strengthening local council administration.

Famara Kanyi Becomes First Gambian Journalist Selected for Oxford Climate Journalism Network

By Alieu Jallow

Famara Kanyi, the Gambia Radio and Television Services (GRTS) Regional Correspondent for the North Bank Region, has been selected for the prestigious Oxford Climate Journalism Network (OCJN), becoming the first Gambian-born journalist to join the global fellowship.

Organised by the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism, the OCJN is a six-month international fellowship designed to equip journalists with the tools, knowledge, and networks necessary to enhance their climate change reporting. Although primarily held online, the program has drawn journalists from across the globe, including Musa Sheriff, a Sierra Leonean journalist based in The Gambia, who participated in a previous cohort.

Kanyi expressed pride and gratitude for the opportunity.

“I’m incredibly proud of this achievement. Being selected for the OCJN fellowship at Oxford is a significant milestone for me, not just professionally but personally as well. It’s a recognition of the hard work I’ve put into environmental journalism, and it motivates me to continue pushing boundaries and telling stories that matter,” he said.

With over 15 years of experience in journalism and development communication, Kanyi has served as a regional correspondent across the North Bank and Lower River regions. He has worked closely with UN agencies, community-based organisations, and civil society groups, focusing on climate change advocacy, policy engagement, and community resilience.

“Throughout my stay in rural Gambia, I have worked with several community-based organisations, NGOs, government, and UN agencies on climate advocacy and environmental sustainability. I have brought the ordeals of many communities bearing the impacts of climate change, pushed forward local mitigation strategies, as well as adaptation mechanisms. Today, I am a proud climate justice advocate and a journalist,” he states.

Kanyi emphasised the importance of representing Gambian environmental journalists on the international stage.

“Our country faces unique environmental challenges, and I see this as a chance to shine a light on those issues on an international platform. I want to bring visibility to the stories that often go unheard and show that even from a small country, impactful journalism can make a difference,” he said.

He added that he hopes the OCJN training will help him grow both technically and intellectually.

“I hope to deepen my understanding of environmental science and policy, improve my storytelling techniques, and learn how to engage audiences more effectively. Ultimately, I want to amplify the voice of my community and contribute to meaningful environmental change through informed and compelling storytelling.” He states

The Oxford Climate Journalism Network is part of a growing global push to improve the quality and depth of climate reporting. Kanyi’s inclusion highlights the increasing relevance of African voices in global climate discourse.

Gambian Student Becomes First Black Valedictorian at Turkish University

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By: The Fatu Network Newsroom

Modou Lamin Cham, a Gambian student, has graduated from Ankara Sosyal Bilimler University (Social Sciences University of Ankara) in Turkey with multiple academic distinctions. Cham completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Economics and received several prestigious honors during his graduation ceremony.

The graduate was named Valedictorian for the Class of 2025 and recognized as the Best Graduating Student in the Economics Department. His academic performance earned him Highest Honors recognition and Summa Cum Laude distinction. Additionally, Cham received the Best International Student Award from the university.

Cham is reported to be the first Black student and first international student to be named Valedictorian in the university’s history. This milestone represents a significant achievement within the institution’s academic community.

Cham has indicated plans to pursue a master’s degree and has expressed that support or sponsorship would be appreciated for his continued education. The achievement represents a notable academic accomplishment for a student from The Gambia studying abroad in Turkey’s higher education system.

Kanifing Municipal Council Selected as Global Finalist in Bloomberg Philanthropies 2025 Mayors Challenge

Written by: The Fatu Network Newsroom

Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) has been selected as one of 50 global finalists in the 2025 Bloomberg Philanthropies Mayors Challenge, marking a significant achievement for the Gambian municipality in the international arena of urban innovation.

In announcing their selection, KMC expressed pride in the achievement, stating on their official social media: “We are proud to announce that Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) has been selected as one of 50 global finalists in the prestigious 2025 Bloomberg Philanthropies Mayors Challenge! Selected from over 630 applications across 33 countries, KMC’s innovative proposal stood out for its bold approach to tackling real urban challenges and improving lives.”

The municipality emphasized the significance of the recognition, noting: “This global recognition is a testament to our ongoing commitment to innovation, sustainable development, and delivering better services for the people of Kanifing.”

The selection represents a notable accomplishment, with KMC being chosen from over 630 applications submitted by municipalities across 33 countries. The competition attracted cities from diverse regions, from Boise to Belfast, and from Ansan to Addis Ababa, representing over 80 million residents collectively.

According to Bloomberg Philanthropies, the 50 finalist ideas were selected based on three key criteria: originality, potential for impact, and credible vision for delivery. The submitted proposals aimed to address various urban challenges including increasing public transit ridership, lowering household energy costs, expanding urban green space, improving service response times, strengthening sanitation systems, enhancing youth safety, and safeguarding water supply.

As a finalist, KMC will receive $50,000 to prototype their proposed solution. The municipality will also participate in Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Ideas Camp scheduled for July 2025, where city officials will work alongside experts and fellow finalists to refine and test their concepts.

The competition will advance to a second phase in January 2026, when 25 cities with the most promising ideas will each receive $1 million in funding plus operational assistance to implement their proposals. This represents an expansion from previous Bloomberg Philanthropies Mayors Challenge rounds, which typically selected between 5 to 15 winners.

The 2025 Mayors Challenge reflects diverse regional priorities and challenges. According to the competition data, approximately one-third of U.S. and Canadian applicants focused on housing and shelter solutions, while nearly half of African applicants proposed improvements to waste collection and management systems. In the Asia-Pacific region, one in five applicants concentrated on cleaner water, air, and infrastructure, and 22 percent of European applicants sought poverty reduction or social inclusion enhancements.

KMC joins other notable cities in the finalist list, including major metropolitan areas such as Seoul, Toronto, Barcelona, and Detroit, as well as other African cities like Addis Ababa, Cape Town, and Benin City.

James Anderson, who leads the Government Innovation program at Bloomberg Philanthropies, emphasized the practical nature of municipal innovation, stating that it involves “solving hard problems under pressure, often with imperfect tools and finite resources.” He noted that the selected finalists distinguish themselves by designing solutions that address both implementation complexity and urgent resident needs.

The program’s advisory committee includes Professor Lesley Lokko OBE, Founder and Chair of the African Futures Institute, and Admiral Michael G. Mullen, President & CEO of MGM Consulting, who will work with finalist cities to advance their proposals.

The 2025 Mayors Challenge builds on more than a decade of Bloomberg Philanthropies’ work in supporting urban innovation. Previous competition rounds have provided 38 winning cities with funding and technical assistance to implement their ideas. Through replication support, the program has extended its impact to 337 additional cities globally, reaching over 100 million residents worldwide.

Bloomberg Philanthropies distributed $3.7 billion in 2024 across its focus areas of Arts, Education, Environment, Government Innovation, and Public Health, operating in 700 cities across 150 countries.

The Ideas Camp in July 2025 will serve as a crucial development phase for KMC and other finalists, providing opportunities for peer learning and expert guidance. The final selection of 25 winning cities will be announced in January 2026, with implementation support extending beyond the initial funding through Bloomberg Philanthropies’ expanded Cities Idea Exchange platform.

KMC’s inclusion among the finalists positions the municipality as a recognized participant in global discussions about urban innovation and sustainable development, regardless of the final competition outcome. The achievement demonstrates the municipality’s capacity to develop solutions that meet international standards for innovation and implementation feasibility.

North Bank Governor Calls for Change in Government Attitude Towards Punctuality and Commitment

Written by: Alieu Jallow

The Governor of the North Bank Region, Lamin Saidyhkan, has issued a strong call for an attitudinal shift towards punctuality and accountability among government institutions. His remarks come on the heels of repeated delays and absenteeism by certain departments during the ongoing Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) meeting held in his office in Kerewan.

The meeting, which forms part of the accountability mechanism supported by ActionAid The Gambia through its Local Rights Programme, aims to foster transparency and effective coordination between development partners and regional institutions.

In an exclusive interview with The Fatu Network, Governor Saidyhkan expressed his disappointment at the poor attendance and late arrival of some institutions, warning that such a trend will no longer be tolerated.

“We need to change our mindset, and it starts with being punctual whether at work or even at home. You have to plan, follow through, and take ownership of your responsibilities. That’s the reason we’re assigned to these positions.

“If you look at the first quarter meeting compared to this one, it was clear they didn’t take the first seriously enough. But we’re in these roles for a reason, and we all have Terms of Reference to fulfill. At the end of the day, you’re expected to deliver. The turnout back then was disappointing, so I decided it was time for a shift in approach—a new system altogether. This time, I made it very clear: the meeting starts at the set time, and even being one minute late means you don’t get in. I enforced that without exception. Military officers showed up late—I sent them back. Staff from the Ministry of Public Service showed up late—I also sent them home for lateness. As governor, I will not compromise on punctuality,” he emphasized.

Governor Saidyhkan emphasized that the time has come for a shift in how institutions approach their responsibilities, especially when it comes to time management and service delivery.

“The time has come for a paradigm shift, especially in terms of executing the duties assigned to each institution. I will not shy away from holding any institution accountable for their irresponsible actions,” he warned.

To ensure compliance and performance, the Governor revealed plans to introduce a monitoring and evaluation mechanism aimed at identifying underperforming institutions and personnel.

“Any government department or staff who consistently fall below the minimum standards will be flagged. Their cases will be forwarded to the central government for appropriate action. My office will not entertain complacency. We have a nation to build, and a people to serve,” he stated.

The governor’s strong stance signals a renewed commitment to public sector efficiency in the North Bank Region, particularly as stakeholders work towards better coordination and service delivery at the grassroots level.

Gambia Sets Fertilizer Price at GMD 1,100 Per Bag with GMD 1,875 Government Subsidy

Written by: The Fatu Network Newsroom

The Gambian Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Security announced today that fertilizer will be sold to farmers at GMD 1,100 per bag for the current farming season, with 28,892 metric tons (577,800 bags) available for nationwide distribution.

The government is providing a substantial subsidy of GMD 1,875 per bag to make fertilizer affordable and boost agricultural productivity. The ministry warned that transporting fertilizer across national borders remains illegal and carries strict penalties.

Additionally, agents with outstanding debts to the National Food Security Processing and Marketing Corporation from last year’s fertilizer sales must settle all arrears immediately or face disqualification from the upcoming distribution exercise, with new agents being recruited to ensure timely delivery to farmers.

Photo: Demba Sabally, Minister of Agriculture

Gambia College Students Demand Reliable Internet or Refund of Mandatory ICT Fee

Written by: Dawda Baldeh

Scores of students at The Gambia College are demanding improved internet services or the complete removal of the mandatory D1,000 annual internet fee. Fatima Jabbie, a second-year student at the college, is among those affected by the persistent poor connectivity.

“This year, I decided not to pay, but our student executives said if I don’t, I won’t be cleared by the accounts office or allowed to register my courses,” she said. “It’s unfair to pay D1,000 for nothing, because the purpose of the payment is not being fulfilled.”

Students say the network is so poor that they even struggle to send basic text messages. Bubacarr Jarju, another student, lamented the ongoing frustration they endure on campus due to the unreliable internet. “We are using our personal data to do research. The Wi-Fi connections on campus are poor,” he told The Fatu Network. Like many others, Jarju said the internet cannot adequately serve the college’s student population. “If the school cannot provide us with reliable internet, they should remove the fee so we can buy our own data. It’s not about the amount—it’s the lack of service,” he emphasized.

Despite the seemingly small amount, Mr. Jarju said the school administration does not understand how difficult it is for some students to come up with D1,000. “The administration is only interested in students paying the fee, but not in the service students receive after paying,” he alleged. “Sometimes, students have to leave their classrooms to find internet access elsewhere just to submit their work or conduct research.”

This medium understands that the annual ICT fee is intended to cover internet access and the student portal. However, many students remain frustrated by the consistently poor service. The Gambia College has an estimated enrollment of over 11,000 students across its campuses, meaning that for every 1,000 students, the school collects D1 million in ICT fees. With such a large student base, students argue there is no excuse for the lack of reliable internet service.

Babucarr Gassama, a former student union executive, clarified that their concerns are not about the fee itself. “We are disappointed that the service we’re receiving does not reflect the value of the payment. Students deserve a reliable and strong internet connection to support their academic needs, especially in an age where online research, virtual learning, and access to educational resources are essential,” he said.

Students are now urging the college administration to address the issue and take immediate steps to improve internet infrastructure. Efforts to reach the school administration and the student union for comment were unsuccessful at the time of this report.

GTSC Wins ‘Best Transport Services – West Africa’ Award

Written by: The Fatu Network Editorial

The Gambia Transport Services Company (GTSC) has been awarded “Best Transport Services – West Africa” by African Travel Quarterly, a Ghana-based travel magazine that focuses on travel and tourism issues in West Africa.

The award recognizes GTSC’s role in connecting people and places across West Africa. African Travel Quarterly is described as the first travel magazine in West Africa dedicated solely to travel and tourism matters.

Ikechi Uko, publisher of African Travel Quarterly, stated in a congratulatory message: “As one of the key players in regional road transport, your services have made it easier for travelers, tourism and business people to move across borders with ease. Your commitment to safety, affordability, and regular routes has helped support tourism, regional trade, and cultural exchange across cities and countries.”

GTSC General Manager Seedy Kanyi responded to the award announcement, saying: “The Board, Management, and the entire staff of GTSC are highly elated by this unexpected yet deeply appreciated award. It comes as a pleasant surprise and a powerful reminder that the work we do does not go unnoticed. This recognition is not just a testament to our individual and collective efforts, but also a reflection of our unwavering commitment to excellence in public transport service delivery.”

Kanyi added: “It is truly gratifying to know that stakeholders beyond the borders of The Gambia are observing and appreciating the strides we are making. Such acknowledgment inspires us to aim higher, continue improving, and deliver even greater value to our customers, partners, and the general public.”

According to the press release, the GTSC team has expressed gratitude to African Travel Quarterly and reaffirmed its dedication to providing transport services both locally and across the sub-region.

The award ceremony is scheduled to take place in Accra, Ghana, on Friday, June 27, 2025. The event will bring together tour operators, government officials, and business leaders from Ghana, Nigeria, Benin, Togo, Sierra Leone, Senegal, and The Gambia.

Senegal Destroys 225 Hectares of Cannabis, Seizes 3,700kg in Major Island Raid

Written by: The Fatu Network Newsroom

A major anti-drug operation in Senegal’s Karone Islands, located in the Casamance region, has led to the destruction of 225 hectares of marijuana (cannabis) cultivation—an area larger than 320 football fields—and the seizure of over 3.7 tons (3,700 kilograms) of marijuana.

The week-long joint operation, conducted from June 14 to 20, involved the army, gendarmerie (military police), and customs officers. It targeted five islands in the area: Hilol, Kouba, Salé Ndiaye, Itouta, and Kaïlo. Authorities arrested 12 individuals, including four Guinean nationals, while screening hundreds of people, vehicles, and motorcycles.

The seized drugs, packed in 453 bags and valued at approximately 373 million CFA francs (approx. 47.4 million Dalasis), were presented to Interior Minister Jean Baptiste Tine in Ziguinchor earlier today. Authorities also collected 409,000 CFA (approx. 52,000 Dalasis) francs in fines during the operation.

North Bank Nutrition Officer Calls for Urgent Action as 17% of Children Under Five Are Stunted

Written by: Alieu Jallow

The Nutrition Field Officer for the North Bank Region, Gibril Sanneh, has issued a strong call for urgent, multi-sectoral, and sustained action to address the rising malnutrition rates in the region. His remarks come in response to findings from the 2019–2020 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS), which revealed that 17% of children under five in the North Bank Region are stunted—meaning they suffer from low height for their age due to chronic malnutrition.

Speaking to The Fatu Network in a side interview during the ongoing Technical Advisory Committee meeting held at the Governor’s Office and supported by ActionAid The Gambia, Sanneh warned that the region’s nutrition indicators are deteriorating at an alarming rate.

“As the Nutrition Field Officer serving the North Bank Region West, I wish to bring to your attention the ongoing nutritional challenges that continue to affect the health and development of our population—particularly children under five and women of reproductive age,” he said.

According to the DHS 2019–2020, 18% of children under five are stunted nationally, 12% are underweight, and 5% are wasted. Regionally, the North Bank ranks fourth in stunting at 17%, behind CRR North (Kuntaur) at 25%, URR at 21%, and CRR South (Janjangbureh) at 19%.

Data from April and May 2025, collected through the mother-led MUAC program, show that 3,734 boys and 3,851 girls were found to be well-nourished. However, 62 boys and 72 girls were moderately malnourished, while eight children (both boys and girls) were classified as severely malnourished. Additionally, 38 children are currently undergoing treatment for severe acute malnutrition across 21 facilities in North Bank West.

Sanneh emphasized that these figures call for immediate and coordinated interventions. He urged the government and development partners to:

  1. Scale up nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive programs—especially at the community level—including growth monitoring, micronutrient supplementation, and maternal and child health services.

  2. Strengthen food systems through the promotion of home gardening, climate-smart agriculture, and food fortification to improve access to nutritious foods.

  3. Invest in nutrition education and social and behavior change communication, particularly for adolescent girls, pregnant and lactating mothers, and caregivers of young children.

  4. Increase funding for nutrition programs to enhance early detection and effective management of malnutrition cases.

While commending the ongoing efforts of the government—through NaNA, the Ministry of Health, local authorities, and development partners including UNICEF, the UN system, the World Bank, and civil society organizations—Sanneh stressed that more must be done to tackle the issue.

He concluded with a call to action:

“Together, let us reaffirm our commitment to Zero Hunger and ensure that every child has the right to grow, thrive, and reach their full potential.”

‘Without support, nothing can be achieved’ – Ghancoy 9 Commander Says at EFSTH Medical Equipment Donation

By Dawda Baldeh

The commander of the Ghanaian troops participating in the ECOWAS mission in The Gambia, Lieutenant Colonel Ronne Agbemafle, stated that nothing can be accomplished without mutual support.

He made these statements during the donation of medical equipment by Ghancoy 9 to the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, Ndemban branch in Bakau.

This act of goodwill is part of Ghancoy 9’s ongoing Civil Military Cooperation aimed at alleviating healthcare challenges at the hospital.

“Without assistance, nothing can be achieved. We are not solely here for peacekeeping missions. We are part of a community, and it is essential for us to build a strong relationship with that community,” he remarked.

Lt. Colonel Ronne explained that the mattresses are meant for patient escorts who frequently sleep on mats outside.

“This hospital serves everyone in The Gambia and is doing an exceptional job. This is why we find it important to assist them with this medical equipment,” the Ghancoy 9 Commander told reporters.

He highlighted that enhancing relationships with the communities is vital for facilitating their work.

“We value the efforts this hospital is making,” he added.

Kebba Sanneh, Principal Public Relations Officer at Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, stressed the importance of such gestures.

“This is a timely gesture, and on behalf of the hospital, I extend my gratitude to the Ghanaian troops for their support. This is the only main referral hospital in the country, and supporting it equates to supporting everyone,” he explained.

“This facility caters to all. When patients’ conditions become complicated, they come here.”

Mr. Sanneh assured the donors that the items would be used for their intended purpose.

“This will improve service delivery at the hospital,” he added.

The donated equipment includes various medical tools essential for patient treatment.

UDP Leader Darboe Criticizes Barrow’s SONA as “Checklist of Propaganda Agenda”

Written by: The Fatu Network Newsroom

United Democratic Party (UDP) leader and Secretary-General Ousainou Darboe has dismissed President Adama Barrow’s 2025 State of the Nation Address as “certainly a checklist of a propaganda agenda,” suggesting the president has begun campaigning for the 2026 presidential elections.

Speaking on West Coast Radio’s Coffee Time with Peter Gomez following the June 19 address, Darboe expressed particular disappointment with what he characterized as vague promises and missed opportunities, especially in foreign policy leadership.

Critique of Foreign Policy Leadership

Darboe’s sharpest criticism centered on President Barrow’s role as Chairman of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), particularly regarding ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

“As chairman of the OIC, I would guide the African group, the AU, to really partner with me in seeking for solutions not only to the Iran-Israel thing,” Darboe said. “He should be approaching the issue not as president of The Gambia but as chairman of the OIC, because if he does approach it as president of The Gambia, people would like to say, ‘But what political weight does he have?’ But then, as chairman of the OIC, he has a lot of political weight—57 nations behind him.”

The UDP leader argued that simply calling for peace from the National Assembly was insufficient, stating: “As chairman, you ought to engage others like world leaders.”

OIC Summit: Success or Failure?

Addressing the 2024 OIC Summit hosted in Banjul, which President Barrow touted as successful, Darboe maintained it was a failure due to poor attendance.

“Certainly it was not successful. I think his emissaries should have done more to impress on member states that this is their conference,” he said. “My particular disappointment was that even in the sub-region there was a singular absence of the presidents.”

Darboe revealed ambitious plans from his time as Foreign Minister: “We had this grandiose, very big idea. We were even thinking that some of the Arab kings could come in their yachts and anchor at Banjul and then drive from Banjul to the conference center.”

Development Priorities: Roads vs. Agriculture

The opposition leader challenged the government’s infrastructure-heavy development approach, particularly the emphasis on road construction over agricultural investment.

“If you take three-quarters of that [road infrastructure spending] and inject it in agriculture, we would by now have been near food self-sufficiency,” Darboe argued. “This $75 million currency swap—I would have taken $50 million of that and injected it in agriculture.”

He emphasized the need to prioritize food security, referencing a Mandinka proverb: “You have to have enough food before you concentrate on roads. Feed the people first, because you have roads that cannot be used when people are hungry.”

Electricity Promises Under Scrutiny

Despite President Barrow’s claim of achieving 90% electricity coverage by the end of 2025, Darboe questioned the reality on the ground. “I have been experiencing power outages—everybody has. So what is all this pomp about electricity all over the country, 90% by the end of this year?” he said.

He dismissed the provision of free electricity meters as electoral incentives: “It’s an incentive, really, for the 2026 presidential elections. How can you give meters to people for free when NAWEC is in such a dire situation?”

UDP Internal Matters and Succession

Addressing ongoing speculation about internal UDP conflicts, Darboe characterized them as “domestic squabbles” while acknowledging public concern. “I am really happy that Gambian people are focusing on UDP. They’re showing their concerns about this domestic squabble because UDP is their hope, so they do not want to see their hope shattered,” he said.

On succession planning within the party, Darboe indicated he would provide adequate notice: “I will leave United Democratic Party with grace, and I wouldn’t give a six months’ notice. I should give at least two years’ notice so that those who really want to succeed me can do their thing.”

Defending Against Tribalism Accusations

The UDP leader strongly rejected suggestions of tribalism within his party or personal conduct, pointing to his family relationships across ethnic lines. “All those who have known me know that Darboe doesn’t think tribal—he has no tribalist inclination in him. His marital life exposes that. The uncles of all his children are people who do not belong to the Mandinka tribe,” he stated.

He attributed such accusations to political opponents using “a cheap propaganda tool” and suggested some apparent UDP supporters making inflammatory statements might be planted agents.

Call for Accountability

Darboe called for the State of the Nation Address to become more of a scorecard, with the president reporting on implementation of previous promises rather than making new declarations. “Every time it’s all declarations—solemn declarations—without implementation. It’s really not doing good for the country because the impact of your policy is really not being shown to the people,” he concluded.

The interview revealed an opposition leader positioning himself as an alternative voice on both domestic priorities and international leadership, while managing internal party dynamics ahead of the 2026 elections.

We Should Transform from Chemical Fertilizer to Organic Fertilizer – Foni Bintang NAM

By Mama A. Touray

Three days after the President delivered his 2025 State of the Nation Address, National Assembly Members on Monday began debating the statement, with some highlighting critical issues they felt the President should have addressed.

While the President highlighted the progress and developments registered in the agricultural sector, the National Assembly Member for Foni Bintang Karanai, Bakary K. Badjie, argued that The Gambia should transform from chemical fertiliser to organic fertiliser.

“We should transform chemical fertiliser to organic fertiliser that will boost our yield and also be of good health to us as a nation, because when you look at chemical fertiliser, last year D580 million was spent on subsidies in terms of chemical fertiliser,” Badjie stated.

Badjie questioned whether the government has the intention to transform from chemical to organic fertilizer, stating that “subsidy is not sustainable, it is not realistic and it’s also faking the soil situation, in reality.”

He argued further that “we cannot revitalize agriculture if we are not introducing agricultural mechanization, so agricultural mechanization is key in agricultural development and without agricultural mechanization how do you want to improve agriculture,” he said.

Meanwhile, the National Assembly Member for Banjul Central Constituency, Abdoulie Njai, also argued that “Year in, year out, we have been pumping in agriculture and agriculture has the highest amount of external projects coming in but still the viability of the sector is still the same.”

Njai added that everything looks good on paper, but when it comes to practical implementation, there is much room for improvement: “we have not seen much going on even though the speech is well articulated and drafted but when it comes to the underground processes and the viability of the sectors they are yet to be seen.”

SONA Debate: Banjul Central NAM Says Government Focuses on Accessibility Over Quality

Written by: Mama A. Touray

Following the State of the Nation Address by President Adama Barrow on Thursday, National Assembly members have started delivering responses to the speech delivered by the president, with some praising the progress made while others offer criticism. Among those who commented on the speech was Hon. Abdoulie Njai, the National Assembly member for Banjul Central constituency.

While reacting to Barrow’s statement on electricity, Njai stated that “Everything looks good on document because when it comes to rural electrification, based on the speech they are more focus on accessibility than quality because when we were in chambers light was jumping on and off.”

Hon. Njai continued: “In as much as we are aiming for rapid development, are we getting value for money when it comes to quality production because people pay taxes to be able to enjoy these amenities, so in as much as we are moving rapidly in some of these development projects, it begs the question if we are really getting value for money.”

Hon. Njai further stated that the government faces challenges which the president left out in his statement. “Yes, the speech was a summary of what has transpired within the pass year however base on what I have seen when it comes to the challenges I have not seen the president go in-depth as to some of the sectorial challenges that are hindering certain processes ongoing.”

“When it comes to the area of accountability, the president talked slightly especially when it comes to judicial issues even though we know that there are a lot of ongoing legal cases that has to do with corruption and accountability but from the speech we haven’t seen the president going a little in-depth as to the measures government is taking in mitigating them,” he argued.

“We know it’s hard to do away from corruption but mitigating the process should be taken,” he added.

On the other hand, Njai stated that when it comes to certain sectors, the approaches are good “especially when it comes to media and broadcasting, we have seen headway when it comes to certain processes.”

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