Friday, August 15, 2025
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Mayor Lowe Inaugurates Borehole in Kerr Bamba

By: Dawda Baldeh

The Mayor of Banjul City Council (BCC), who is also the President of REFELA Africa, has inaugurated a borehole in Kerr Bamba in Sabach Sanjal constituency.

This borehole, part of her ongoing nationwide REFELA projects, has brought joy to the residents of Kerr Bamba, who described it as life-changing support. They commended Mayor Lowe and her partners for the initiative.

The inauguration was attended by esteemed personnel, villagers, and neighbors who gathered to celebrate the moment together.

BCC Threatens Legal Action Against Hisense for Alleged Unauthorized Dumping

By: Dawda Baldeh

The Banjul City Council (BCC) has threatened legal action against Hisense over alleged unauthorized dumping of what was classified as “expired food products” in Banjul.

Speaking exclusively to The Fatu Network, BCC Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe said individuals allegedly from Hisense attempted to dump waste at the city’s dumpsite without proper clearance from the Food Safety and Quality Authority (FSQA). “We are setting an example on this…we will take them to court. No one will do this and go free,” she stated.

The BCC mayor had earlier shared images of the alleged unauthorized dumping along the streets in Banjul on her Facebook wall. Mayor Lowe called on business owners in the city and Banjulians to be law-abiding, saying “Now Banjulians will not allow this to happen. We want our city to be clean and safe.”

Efforts to reach Hisense for comment were unsuccessful by the time of this publication.

What’s the Mystery Behind the Alleged 1 Trillion CFA Account?

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

Interest is growing around the controversy surrounding an alleged bank account containing over 1 trillion CFA francs (1,000 billion CFA), a claim initially made by Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko during his parliamentary/ legislative campaign in October 2024. Questions about the account’s existence, ownership, and origin have sparked legal action, with concerns over potential financial misconduct.

Senegalese activist Ardo Gning has now filed a complaint with the Financial Prosecutor’s Office, urging an investigation into possible embezzlement of public funds and unlawful financial disclosures. His filing argues that the lack of an official explanation raises serious concerns.

This latest development follows former President Macky Sall’s firm denial in December 2024 of any connection to such an account. Sall challenged the authenticity of a fraudulent bank statement claiming he owned the account, and he sought an investigation into the matter.

With mounting calls for transparency, authorities face increasing pressure to clarify whether such an account exists and, if so, who controls it.

Gilanfari Village Hosts Annual Congress, Honoring Minister Bakary Y. Badjie

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

The village of Gilanfari in Foni Bintang Karenai, West Coast Region, held its annual congress on Friday, 7th, and Saturday, 8th February 2025. The event, which serves as a homecoming for villagers residing across The Gambia, also provides a platform to discuss development initiatives and raise funds to address local needs.

This year’s congress was dedicated to Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie, Minister of Youth and Sports, who was previously granted honorary citizenship after being adopted as an honorary father of the village. Hon. Badjie attended the Saturday evening cultural display and village meeting, where he expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation. He urged residents to remain united and collaborate for the progress of both the village and Foni as a whole.

As an honorary father and citizen, Hon. Badjie pledged to work with community members and other stakeholders to address key concerns raised during the event, including access to clean water, improved roads, a school, and a football field.

The congress was attended by several dignitaries, including the Chief of Foni Bintang, Seyfoo Modou Lamin Jobarteh; former National Assembly Member for the area and current Deputy Governor of LRR, Hon. Momodou Camara; as well as regional chairpersons, women political leaders, and other stakeholders.

Tragic Electrocution Claims Life of 31-Year-Old in Kombo Mandinary

By Alieu Jallow

Amadou Bojang, commonly known as Amalie Taal, a 31-year-old man from Kombo Mandinary, tragically lost his life on Sunday, February 9, due to electrocution while attempting to repair an overhead water tank in a nearby residence. The incident has left the local community in mourning and highlights the critical importance of electrical safety measures.

A close family member, who wished to remain anonymous, told The Fatu Network that the victim was performing maintenance on the elevated water tank when he inadvertently came into contact with a live electrical wire at around 16:30–17:30. The sudden shock rendered him unconscious, and he was later pronounced dead upon the arrival of the fire and rescue services.

Additionally, the family member expressed sorrow, describing Amadou as a hardworking individual dedicated to serving the community.

“This young man—what he did for the village, I can’t say he is unmatched, but he is among the few. He participated in every community initiative, including mosque work, for free. This is why the young people are deeply saddened.”

He further highlighted that this is the third time such a tragic incident has claimed the life of a young person in their village, calling for improved safety measures by the National Water and Electricity Company Limited (NAWEC).

“NAWEC needs to reassess the electricity system in The Gambia because I don’t understand why this keeps happening. In other countries, such as Senegal, when such incidents are about to occur, the electrical system automatically shuts off or diverts the current to prevent electrocution. But in our country, there have been several reported cases of electrocution, so the system needs urgent improvement,” he stated.

The untimely death has sent shockwaves through Kombo Mandinary, especially among young people, as Amadou had trained and mentored many of them to gain meaningful employment. His tragic loss serves as a somber reminder of the inherent dangers associated with electrical work.

Mike Tyson’s Arrival in Dakar Causes Chaos at Airport

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

Mike Tyson touched down in Dakar over the weekend, drawing a large crowd at Blaise Diagne International Airport as travelers and onlookers scrambled to catch a glimpse of the boxing legend.

The scene quickly grew chaotic, prompting police to step in and restore order before Tyson departed with his wife and daughter.

According to L’Observateur, Tyson and his family are expected to spend about ten days in Senegal. However, the reason for his visit remains undisclosed.

Senegalese Influencer Arrested Over 500 Million CFA Fraud Allegations

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

Influencer and self-proclaimed traditional healer Mame Thierno Fall, also known as “The King,” was recently arrested by Senegalese authorities after posting a viral video in which he claimed to have 500 million CFA francs in cash.

Suspected of fraud and money laundering, he was taken into custody by the country’s investigative police after the prosecutor intervened.

However, during a search, only around 30 million CFA francs were found, and authorities are currently verifying the authenticity of the banknotes.

Big Banga Shines at XORONDAGA Concert in Manjai

By: Dawda Baldeh

Bangali Touray, popularly known as Big Banga, took the stage at Manjai Park on Saturday for his XORONDAGA CONCERT.

Banga, the ‘Respecko’ hitmaker, is regarded as one of the first Sarahule artists in modern Gambian music to achieve mainstream recognition. His stage presence stood out, with some audience members describing the experience as visually striking.

“Big Banga made unforgettable history on Saturday,” said D. Jobz, also known as the Baddest Manager, an artist manager and music business consultant. He added that Banga has strong potential in the Gambian music industry.

The concert featured performances with several Gambian musicians and drew a diverse audience, including business tycoon Abubacarr Jawara.

Corruption in The Gambia: A Crisis Under President Adama Barrow’s Government

Corruption has long been a scourge in The Gambia, but under President Adama Barrow’s administration, it has reached unprecedented levels. Since taking office in 2017, Barrow’s government has been plagued by allegations of widespread corruption across every sector, ministries, and public enterprises.

From mismanagement of COVID-19 funds to the disappearance of millions at the Gambia Ports Authority (GPA), the scale of graft has left many Gambians disillusioned and angry. Despite mounting evidence and damning reports from the Auditor General, the government has shown little interest in accountability, with President Barrow himself dismissing audit reports as “just an opinion.”

This blatant disregard for transparency and good governance has cemented the perception that the Barrow administration is the most corrupt government in The Gambia’s history.

Under Barrow’s leadership, corruption has become endemic, infiltrating every corner of the government. Ministries and public institutions, which are supposed to serve the people, have instead become hotbeds of embezzlement, bribery, and mismanagement.

The education, health, and infrastructure sectors, which are critical to national development, have been particularly hard hit. Funds meant for schools, hospitals, access to clean running water, and security forces have been siphoned off by officials, leaving ordinary Gambians to suffer the consequences.

The Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) scandal is a glaring example of this systemic corruption. Millions of Dalasi have gone missing, with no clear explanation or accountability. Despite public outcry and calls for investigations, the matter has been swept under the rug, further eroding trust in the government.

Similarly, the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) has been accused of financial mismanagement, contributing to the country’s persistent energy crisis. Investigations of corruption would last for months and sometimes years at the police, and then the files would spend months at the Attorney General’s Office before they are taken to court. The courts would take endless adjournments. JUSTICE DELAYED IS JUSTICE DENIED.

The mismanagement of COVID-19 funds is perhaps the most egregious example of corruption under the Barrow administration. During the pandemic, The Gambia received significant financial support from international donors and organizations to combat the health crisis and support vulnerable citizens.

However, instead of being used for their intended purpose, these funds were allegedly misappropriated by government officials. The Gambia’s Minister of Health admitted to corruption in his Ministry during his appearance at the National Assembly in 2020.

In his statement, Dr. Samateh highlighted instances where public funds intended for healthcare services were misappropriated. This includes embezzlement and the diversion of resources meant for medical supplies and infrastructure development.

The minister pointed out the existence of ghost workers on the government payroll. These are non-existent employees whose salaries are collected by corrupt officials, draining resources that could otherwise be used to improve healthcare services.

There were reports of fraudulent activities in the procurement process, where contracts were awarded to companies at inflated prices, often in collusion with government officials. This not only increases costs but also compromises the quality of healthcare services.

Bribery and nepotism is the order of the day in this country, where positions and promotions were given based on connections rather than merit. This practice undermines the efficiency and effectiveness of the health sector, in particular, the government in general.

All these serve as testaments to the chronic corruption of the Barrow government.

Reports from the Auditor General revealed shocking irregularities in the handling of COVID-19 funds, including unaccounted-for expenditures, inflated contracts, and payments to ghost workers. These findings highlighted a blatant disregard for accountability and transparency, even during a national emergency.

Yet, despite the damning evidence, no significant action has been taken to hold those responsible accountable. This has led many to question whether the government is truly committed to fighting corruption or simply paying lip service to the idea.

The Auditor General’s reports have consistently exposed corruption and financial mismanagement within the Barrow administration. These reports, which are meant to serve as a tool for accountability, have been met with indifference and even contempt by the government.

In a shocking display of disregard for oversight, President Barrow dismissed the audit reports as “just an opinion,” undermining the importance of transparency and accountability in governance.

This attitude has sent a clear message to corrupt officials: they can act with impunity, knowing that the government will not hold them accountable. It has also demoralized anti-corruption advocates and civil society organizations, who have worked tirelessly to expose graft and demand justice.

By ignoring the Auditor General’s findings, the Barrow administration has effectively condoned corruption, allowing it to flourish unchecked.

One of the most troubling aspects of the corruption crisis under Barrow is the apparent lack of political will to address it. Despite promising to fight corruption during his election campaign, Barrow has done little to fulfill this promise. Key anti-corruption institutions, such as the Anti-Corruption Commission, are yet to take off.

Moreover, the government has failed to implement meaningful reforms to strengthen transparency and accountability. Public procurement processes remain opaque, and whistleblowers are often intimidated or ignored.

This lack of action has created an environment where corruption thrives, with little consequence for those who engage in it.

The impact of corruption in The Gambia extends far beyond financial losses. It undermines development, exacerbates poverty, and erodes public trust in government institutions.

For ordinary Gambians, corruption means fewer resources for healthcare, education, agriculture, and job creation. It means higher costs for basic services and fewer opportunities for economic advancement. In a country where many already struggle to make ends meet, corruption is a direct attack on their well-being.

The mismanagement of COVID-19 funds, for example, has had dire consequences for public health. With resources diverted away from their intended purpose, the country’s healthcare system was ill-equipped to handle the pandemic, leading to unnecessary suffering and loss of life.

Similarly, the disappearance of funds at the GPA has hindered the country’s ability to modernize its ports, limiting economic growth and job creation.

The Gambia cannot afford to let corruption continue unchecked. The Barrow government will not take any serious action to fight corruption, but a UDP government will take urgent actions to restore accountability and rebuild public trust.

This will begin with a commitment from the leadership and the administration by taking the Auditor General’s reports seriously and acting on their findings. Corrupt officials will be investigated and prosecuted, regardless of their position or political connections. There will be no sacred cow.

A UDP government will strengthen the anti-corruption institutions and appoint a no-nonsense anti-corruption czar. Recommendations and reforms will be implemented to improve transparency and accountability.

Public procurement processes will be made more open and competitive, and whistleblowers will be protected and encouraged to come forward. Civil society and the media will be treated as partners of the government, for they play a crucial role in holding the government accountable, and their efforts will be supported.

Corruption in The Gambia under President Adama Barrow’s government has reached alarming levels, with every sector and ministry affected. From the mismanagement of COVID-19 funds to the disappearance of millions at the GPA, the scale of graft is staggering.

Yet, instead of acting, the government has dismissed reports of corruption and failed to hold those responsible accountable. This lack of political will has allowed corruption to flourish, with devastating consequences for ordinary Gambians.

To move The Gambia forward, a UDP government will confront this crisis head-on. The leadership will demonstrate genuine leadership by prioritizing the fight against corruption and taking concrete steps to restore transparency and accountability.

The future of The Gambia depends on it. Without meaningful action, the country risks becoming a failed state, where corruption reigns supreme and the people are left to suffer the consequences.

Tombong Saidy
UDP Admin Secretary for
Media & Communication

Amnesty Chief Condemns Trump’s Sanctions on ICC

In response to President Trump’s recent executive order imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC), Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General, expressed strong condemnation.

She called the action “reckless” and stated that it sends the message that “Israel is above the law and the universal principles of international justice.” Callamard suggested that the order undermines decades of international efforts to build a global justice system.

Callamard described the executive order as vindictive and aggressive, aiming to destroy the foundations of global rules that deliver justice for all.

She emphasized that the sanctions represent a betrayal of common humanity, as they protect individuals responsible for committing atrocities under international law from accountability.

According to Callamard, “No one responsible for crimes under international law should be protected or aided in their attempts to escape individual accountability, least of all with the assistance of the US government based on President Trump’s political alliances.”

At a time when international justice faces multiple threats, including the genocide against Palestinians in Gaza and Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, Callamard argued that institutions like the ICC are crucial for advancing human rights protections and securing justice for victims.

She warned that the sanctions would harm accountability and embolden perpetrators of atrocities.

Callamard concluded by urging governments and regional organizations to take collective and concerted actions to protect the ICC and its staff from the damaging effects of President Trump’s sanctions.

She highlighted the importance of the ICC’s independent pursuit of justice, stating that it performs a vital role in investigating crimes committed by powerful individuals and ensuring that perpetrators do not benefit from perpetual impunity.

BREAKING: Lamin K. Saidy Appointed as Youth Affairs Adviser to Pres. Barrow

Lamin K. Saidy has been appointed as the Adviser on Youth Affairs to President Adama Barrow, effective February 1, 2025.

Saidy’s new role will involve advising the President on matters related to youth and offering critical policy guidance.

Saidy’s appointment comes after his previous tenure as the Deputy Youth Adviser, where he laid the groundwork for his current position.

Confirming his appointment, Saidy told The Fatu Network: “I can confirm my appointment. I received the letter today and [I] want to thank President [Adama Barrow] for the opportunity [he has] given [ me].”

“I will continue to serve to the best of my ability.”

Is Lula Right About Trump’s Global Reach?

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

Brazilian President Lula da Silva directly challenged Trump’s international influence, stating “I respect the election of President Trump, who was elected by the American people to govern the United States,” but emphasized that “he was not elected to rule the world.”

Lula criticized America’s self-appointed role as “a symbol of democracy and ‘sheriff’ of the world,” and called for Trump to maintain “democratic and civilized” relations internationally. He specifically took issue with Trump’s statements regarding territorial occupations, which he termed “provocations.”

Women in Liberation and Leadership Empower Young Ambassadors in The Gambia

By: Michaella Faith Wright

The Women in Liberation and Leadership (WILL) organization, in collaboration with Alliance Française de Banjul, has launched a youth empowerment program aimed at equipping young girls with leadership skills and advocacy training. The initiative, which coincides with the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), seeks to promote gender equality and amplify the voices of young women in The Gambia.

Speaking at the event, Justice Guschlbauer, Directrice of Alliance Française de Banjul, described the program as a significant step in empowering young women. “It is an honor to welcome the young ambassadors to this initiative. This program has been a stepping stone for young women in The Gambia, allowing them to engage with inspiring figures and develop leadership skills,” she stated.

She emphasized the importance of cultural and educational partnerships in fostering innovation and empowering young people. “Our commitment is to ensure that young people become change-makers. Through this initiative, we encourage students to engage with inspiring politicians and leaders, which will drive meaningful transformation in our society,” she added.

Fatoumata Sanneh, the Communication Officer and Outreach Manager at WILL, highlighted the organization’s role in advocating for the rights of women and girls. She stated that the program aims to raise awareness about FGM, sexual and reproductive rights, and gender-based violence through artistic performances, poetry, and drama.

“At the end of the day, we want these young ambassadors to become agents of change, carrying advocacy work into their schools and communities. The training they receive in these three areas will equip them to lead the fight against gender-based issues,” Sanneh said.

She further explained that WILL has established a Female Ambassadors Club, where young girls take on leadership roles and organize initiatives with the support of the organization. “Our goal is to not only invite young girls to participate but to empower them as partners and ambassadors who can continue this work independently in their schools and communities,” she added.

Sanneh concluded by emphasizing the power of the arts in advocacy. “We recognize that people communicate in different ways, and performances like poetry and drama serve as powerful tools to spread awareness. Every young person participating today is under 18, and we are raising a generation equipped with the knowledge to drive change,” she said.

The initiative marks a significant step in the ongoing fight for gender equality and the eradication of harmful practices affecting young girls in The Gambia.

ST Brikama Boyo Sets 10-Album Goal

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

Gambian Afromanding artist ST Brikama Boyo, also known as “The Gambian Dream,” has addressed the media following his successful album launch last week at QCity.

Born Sanna Signateh, the acclaimed singer, songwriter, and producer is widely regarded as a generational talent and one of The Gambia’s leading musicians.

Speaking to journalists at yesterday’s press conference, ST expressed gratitude to Gambians for their support during the launch. He also acknowledged various challenges encountered during the event and assured that his management team is working tirelessly to address these issues.

In a significant announcement, ST revealed, “I will only do two more albums because I’m targeting ten and I already released eight. After this, I will not release any album.” His latest album features 12 songs, including four collaborations with other Gambian artists.

More details to follow…

Strengthening Resilience: NDMA Leads National Dialogue on Climate Shocks and Migration Challenges

By: Alieu Jallow

The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) on Thursday, February 6, 2025, is convening a day-long workshop titled “Enhancing Collaboration and Coordination Among Government Agencies, CSOs, and Humanitarian Actors Involved in Migration-Related Activities.” The event aims to bolster The Gambia’s resilience to climate shocks and address the root causes of internal and irregular migration.

The seminar brings together representatives from various government departments, civil society organizations (CSOs), and international humanitarian agencies to discuss strategies for integrated climate resilience and migration management. Participants are engaging in discussions on the importance of cohesive action to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change, which has been identified as a significant driver of migration in the region.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of NDMA Executive Director Madam Binta Sey Jadama, Acting Administrative Director emphasized the critical need for a unified approach:

“Building resilience against climate-induced challenges requires a collaborative effort,” she stated, citing that as an agency, they have witnessed firsthand the struggles of communities displaced by floods, droughts, and environmental degradation.

‘Enhancing Collaboration and Coordination Among Government Agencies, CSOs, and Humanitarian Actors Involved in Migration-Related Activities’ reminds us that no single entity can address this crisis alone. We must strengthen synergies between all stakeholders, ensuring that our responses are coherent, well-coordinated, and effective.”

The Gambia’s vulnerability to climate change is well-documented, with the nation experiencing increased incidents of flooding, droughts, and coastal erosion. These environmental challenges threaten food security and have been linked to rising internal displacement and irregular migration. A recent analysis highlighted the country’s susceptibility to these climate-induced risks and underscored the need for comprehensive adaptation strategies.

Against this backdrop, Madam Binta Sey Jadama stressed that the project is not just about reducing migration; rather, it is about creating opportunities, strengthening resilience, and ensuring dignity for all Gambians. She emphasized a key focus on building community resilience by investing in climate-smart agriculture, sustainable livelihoods, and disaster preparedness to reduce forced migration. However, she also called for urgent action in the face of alarming climate change effects.

“Today, we are not just launching a project; we are laying the foundation for a unified national effort to combat climate-induced migration. I urge all stakeholders to:

  • Empower local communities—ensuring that affected populations are at the center of decision-making.
  • Let us seize this opportunity to create a resilient Gambia where climate change no longer forces our people to leave their homes in search of survival.
  • With partnerships, innovation, and shared responsibility, we can build a future where migration is a choice—not a necessity.”

The NDMA’s initiative reflects a growing recognition of the complex interplay between climate change and migration. By enhancing collaboration among key stakeholders, The Gambia aims to develop robust mechanisms to protect vulnerable populations and reduce the pressures that lead to internal and irregular migration.

As The Gambia continues to face the challenges posed by climate change, such collaborative efforts are essential in building a resilient society capable of withstanding environmental shocks and minimizing forced migration.

Here’s What’s Next: DIC Takes Over Investigation into Farba Ngom’s Alleged Financial Misconduct Case

By: Seringe ST Touray

Senegal’s Criminal Investigation Division (DIC) has been assigned to investigate allegations against parliamentarian Farba Ngom, following a report by the National Financial Information Processing Unit (Centif) that identified allegedly suspicious financial transactions and potential money laundering estimated at more than 125 billion CFA francs.

According to Seneweb sources, the financial prosecutor’s office has issued a notification to activate the DIC investigation unit. Ngom, who recently had his parliamentary immunity lifted, could reportedly be summoned for questioning in the coming days.

The Fatu Network previously reported that on January 12, Senegal’s financial prosecutor announced the launch of an investigation into allegations against Ngom, including reported criminal conspiracy, money laundering, fraud involving public funds, corruption, influence peddling, and misuse of social property.

Ngom, who serves as deputy mayor of Agnam in Northern Senegal and is a prominent member of the Alliance for the Republic (APR) party, has denied all accusations. The Fatu Network reported that in a televised statement on January 17, he declared that “Ousmane Sonko is neither God nor His Prophet (SAW),” suggesting the investigation was politically motivated.

The APR, still influenced by former President Macky Sall, has alleged that the proceedings against Ngom are politically motivated, claiming they are part of a strategy orchestrated by Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko to eliminate political opponents.

According to previous reporting by The Fatu Network, citing Senegalese investigative news outlet Enquête, former President Macky Sall, currently residing in Morocco, has assembled a legal team to respond to the situation. This team reportedly includes former justice minister El Hadji Amadou Sall and the “Republican Lawyers Collective” – a group of prominent legal professionals who have previously defended APR party members and are known for handling high-profile political cases. Enquête also reported that French lawyer Antoine Vey has been enlisted for potential international legal defense coordination.

The DIC’s assignment represents a new phase in the investigation, which continues to draw significant attention in Senegal.

A Wake-Up Call For African Leaders: Breaking Free From Foreign Aid Dependency

Donald Trump’s executive orders suspending so-called foreign aid should serve as a wake-up call for African leaders who have long relied on external assistance to drive development. While foreign aid is often presented as a tool for progress, in reality, it has contributed to Africa’s economic stagnation, reinforcing dependency rather than fostering self-sufficiency. The suspension of this aid presents a unique opportunity for African nations to reassess their priorities, harness their natural resources, and develop sustainable policies that promote economic independence. The Gambia Action Party (GAP) firmly opposes any leader who continues to depend on foreign aid while neglecting the vast resources within Africa’s borders.

The first step towards ending this reliance is for African governments to prioritize economic diversification. Many African countries have abundant natural resources, yet they continue to export raw materials and import finished goods, leading to a trade imbalance that benefits foreign economies. Leaders must invest in local industries, particularly manufacturing and technology, to add value to raw materials before exporting them. Establishing strong agricultural and industrial sectors will create employment, reduce poverty, and ultimately minimize the need for external financial support.

Furthermore, Africa must strengthen regional cooperation through economic integration. Institutions like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) should be fully utilized to facilitate intra-African trade and investment. If African countries depend on each other for goods, services, and expertise rather than looking to the West or Asia, they will foster a more resilient economic system. Leaders must also negotiate fair trade agreements that benefit their people rather than being dictated by foreign interests. By prioritizing Africa-first policies, governments can ensure that the wealth generated within the continent remains within the continent.

Another crucial step is tackling corruption and mismanagement, which have long been barriers to economic progress. Many African leaders misuse state resources, allowing foreign governments and institutions to control their economies through aid. Transparency, accountability, and good governance must be enforced to ensure that public funds are used for development rather than personal enrichment. Strengthening institutions such as anti-corruption commissions, judicial systems, and financial regulatory bodies will help curb mismanagement and ensure that African resources are used effectively.

Lastly, education and innovation should be at the core of Africa’s development strategy. Nations that invest in human capital through quality education and skills development become more self-reliant and competitive on the global stage. Instead of depending on foreign expertise, Africa should build strong research institutions, invest in technology, and promote entrepreneurship. Leaders must encourage young Africans to innovate and create solutions tailored to the continent’s needs rather than mimicking foreign models that may not suit local realities.

In conclusion, the suspension of foreign aid should not be seen as a setback but as an opportunity for Africa to redefine its economic destiny. African leaders must stop expecting handouts and start utilizing the vast resources within their reach. By promoting industrialization, regional cooperation, good governance, and human capital development, Africa can break free from the chains of foreign dependency and achieve true economic independence. The Gambia Action Party (GAP) stands firmly against leaders who continue to seek foreign aid instead of working towards self-sufficiency. Now is the time for action, not excuses.

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

Addressing Unemployment: Join Hands to Save a Baby Launches Free Skills Training Salon

By: Dawda Baldeh

In an effort to tackle the growing unemployment crisis in the nation, Join Hands to Save a Baby, a humanitarian organization, has opened a modern salon, White House Salon, in Busumbala to provide free skills training for women and girls.

This initiative is designed to offer complimentary training in hairdressing, makeup, fashion, decoration, and other related fields for young girls and women.

During the annual ceremony, the CEO of Join Hands to Save a Baby, Amie Jarju, stated that the initiative aims to reduce the unemployment rate among girls and women through skills training.

Mrs. Jarju, recognized for her humanitarian efforts, expressed hope that the salon will create job opportunities for young girls and women.

She emphasized that this initiative will also help decrease poverty levels in the country by empowering girls and women to achieve economic independence.

She urged Gambians to come together and work towards the nation’s development.

“This salon is part of the True Roots of Unity (TRU) project, which aims to bring people together.

We will provide training for women and girls in salon work. This is not a profit-driven salon,” she stressed, noting that professionals will be brought in to train interested individuals in various salon skills.

To ensure community ownership of the project, Amie announced that those interested will only need to purchase a form, while the rest of the training will be free.

“We aim to support girls who wish to become professional artists,” she clarified.

Speakers at the event praised Amie for her initiative and encouraged the residents of Busumbala to take ownership of the project.

A LETTER TO YOU… YOU WHO CUT ME

By Mariama Jobarteh

 

I did not know your name, but you knew mine. I can almost
hear you calling it that day — softly, as if in celebration.
You must have cradled the tiny soul I once was, walking
toward the place where little girls stop being little girls.
You betrayed my trust.

I was only two weeks old. I do not remember. But I
remember my friend’s story. She said it was her time. That
she would be clean, a woman, ready to make her family
proud. You told her it was tradition — that every woman
before her had walked this path. That the pain would fade.
That she would forget.

She did not forget.

She remembers the hands that pinned her down. The whisper of a blade, sharper than her mother’s kitchen knife. The songs, the claps, the drums — beating to drown out her screams, so no one would hear.

She remembers the blood.

She did not understand why she had to endure such agony. Had she done something wrong? Had she laughed too loudly? Played too freely? Danced when she should have sat still?

They told her she was clean now — that she was no longer a Solima. But what is purity, if it means she cannot walk without pain? If it means she will be haunted for life? What is it worth if it means she will never feel whole again?

I know you did not mean to hurt her. I know that once, you too were a little girl on the same mat, under the same blade, with the same silent tears. That the elders told you this was the way. That no man would take an uncut woman. That an uncut woman was promiscuous. That she was a shame to her family. But do you not hear us crying? Do you not see the girls who bleed to death? The women who suffer in childbirth? The wives who feel nothing when their husbands touch them? Have you not heard of the ones who ran away — who chose exile over mutilation?

Do you not see us?

We are not asking you to abandon our traditions. We are asking you to let us be whole. To honour us as we are born, not as we are cut. We are asking for a world where our worth is not measured by how much of us has been taken away.

There are other ways to mark our passage into womanhood. Teach us the songs of our ancestors — not the silence of our pain. Show us how to braid wisdom into our hair, not how to bleed in the name of honour. Let us keep our bodies. Every part of them.

To those who still hold the blade, I beg you — listen.

Listen to the mothers who have buried their daughters.
Listen to the fathers who have lost their little girls.
Listen to the husbands who say they do not want their wives cut.
Listen to the women who were cut and now stand before you, broken but still pleading – End this.

She was a child. She had dreams. She wanted to be a doctor, a teacher, a dancer, a writer. Now, all she is, is pain. Pain that should never have been hers.
Please, do not let another girl write this letter.

 

FGM is a form of sexual and gender-based violence. It is not a cultural relic; it is a human rights violation. The voices of survivors must be heard, and action must be taken. Protect the next generation. End FGM.

ASD Calls for Political Reforms and Transparency in Gambia

By Alieu Jallow

The Alliance of Social Democrats (ASD), a civil society and political organization founded in 2020 by Marie Sock and a group of Gambians, has reiterated its commitment to social justice, democracy, and national unity.

At a press conference held on 5th February, ASD officials expressed concerns over governance failures and called for critical reforms ahead of the 2026 presidential elections.

Addressing the gathering, ASD leader Marie Sock criticized the current government’s performance, stating, “Democracy does not end with elections; it requires interrogation. Our government has failed to deliver on its promises, and key sectors such as security, education, agriculture, and health remain in crisis.”

She also highlighted the deteriorating security situation in the country, citing rising murder cases and armed robberies, which have left many citizens in fear. “Our security sector reform efforts have weakened, and urgent intervention is needed to restore public confidence,” Sock added.

The ASD also raised concerns about the struggling economy, particularly the high cost of living and underfunding of key sectors.

“Agriculture contributes 21% to our GDP, yet it remains underfunded, while our education system is suffocating due to budget cuts,” she stated.

The movement also emphasized the need for transparency in political party financing, warning against the growing influence of money in Gambian politics.

“Unregulated money and undisclosed donations are corrupting our democracy. We need the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and other institutions to enforce financial disclosure laws,” ASD stressed.

The organization warned that failure to regulate political financing could allow corruption and organized crime to infiltrate governance, diminishing public trust in elections and political institutions.

“Citizens want leaders who represent their interests, not those of wealthy donors and corporations,” Sock emphasized.

ASD reaffirmed its commitment to nonpartisan politics, stating that it will continue to field independent candidates who prioritize national interests over party loyalty.

“In 2021, we presented the only female independent candidate. For 2026, we maintain this position, and I, Marie Sock, will contest again as an independent candidate,” she declared.

The movement urged Gambians to take control of their democratic future, advocating for a peaceful transition through the ballot box.

“Our constitution does not limit presidential terms, but we, the people, can set that limit by voting for change in 2026,” ASD concluded.

As the political landscape in Gambia heats up, ASD’s calls for transparency and accountability are likely to spark further debate on governance, political financing, and democratic reforms in the country.

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