The opening day of the 11th Edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2024 was marked by inspiring moments, particularly a powerful speech from Mrs. Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, The First Lady of The Gambia and Ambassador of the Merck Foundation More Than a Mother.

Joining her counterparts, the African and Asian First Ladies in Tanzania, she celebrated the event’s theme, “Together We Make a Difference.” “Merck Foundation consistently introduces impressive and innovative approaches to raising awareness within communities on critical social and health issues,” the First Lady stated, highlighting initiatives aimed at breaking the stigma around infertility, empowering women, supporting girls’ education, and addressing issues such as gender-based violence, child marriage, female genital mutilation (FGM), diabetes, and hypertension.

“Another issue close to my heart is supporting girls’ education. I believe that education is a fundamental right for every girl,” she added. The First Lady expressed her gratitude to the foundation’s Chairman Prof. Frank and CEO Dr. Rasha for their “amazing and beneficial programs.”

The event saw the participation of 15 African and Asian First Ladies, reflecting Merck Foundation’s commitment to partnering with First Ladies worldwide in their developmental initiatives across health, education, fashion, and awareness creation.

Michaella Faith Wright

The rising cost of rent in The Gambia is placing significant strain on tenants, with many struggling to keep up with frequent increases in housing and shop rental prices. As the housing market tightens, house agents, landlords, and tenants are all expressing frustrations and calling for government intervention to ease the situation.

Several house agents, including Musa Jallow, Fatou Bojang, and Lamin Sanyang, shared the challenges they face while trying to meet the demands of both landlords and tenants.

Jallow explained, “People complain that the rents we find are high, but it’s because we negotiate based on landlords’ terms. Sometimes, landlords increase prices at the last minute, which leaves us in a difficult spot.”

Bojang added, “Agents like us rely on commissions, but some landlords don’t pay us what we’re supposed to earn. Despite the difficulties, we still try to help people find affordable homes.”

Sanyang also highlighted the difficulties of balancing expectations. “Landlords often blame us when tenants don’t pay on time, even though that’s beyond our control. We do our best to assist both sides, but it’s becoming harder with the current rent situation.”

Abdoulie Jobe, a landlord with three houses and shops in Latrikunda Germany, spoke to The Fatu Network about his experiences over the past 20 years. Jobe rents out rooms and parlours for D1,000 monthly, without requiring advance payments. His shops are also rented for D1,000 each.

Jobe emphasized the importance of building a community with his tenants. “It’s a blessing to see my children play with the tenants’ children. We live like a family,” he said.

Despite these connections, Jobe acknowledged the challenges of rental management. “Some tenants owe rent for up to three months, but I give them time to settle their debts,” he said. “I don’t depend on rent for survival, and I cover water bills for my tenants. I also installed separate electricity meters to avoid disputes over power bills.”

He urged landlords to show compassion. “We need to support each other. Treating houses purely as businesses only increases the burden on tenants.”

Amie Camara, a landlady in Bijilo, added that maintaining houses is becoming more expensive. “Renovations are costly, and some tenants struggle with payments, making it hard for us too. But we have to find a way to work together.”

Many tenants are struggling to keep up with the rising costs of rent. Fatou Baldeh, a tenant in Bijilo, said, “Prices keep increasing, and even Gambians like me are finding it hard to cope. Some of us don’t want to move back to family homes, but rent has become unbearable. Agents charge fees as high as D5,000 — equivalent to one month’s rent.”

She appealed to landlords for empathy. “We only have one Gambia, and many of us have no other place to go.”

Single mother Ida Sonko also shared her struggles. “Managing rent and taking care of my children is becoming harder. I’ve been evicted before, and I now rely on doing laundry for others to survive,” she said.

Sonko called for government intervention. “Life is becoming more difficult with these rent increases. The government needs to speak with landlords about making housing more affordable.”

Conclusion
The testimonies from house agents, landlords, and tenants highlight the growing challenges posed by rising rents in The Gambia. As prices continue to rise, all parties are calling for fairness, understanding, and government action to address the housing crisis.

While video interviews could have added further depth to these stories, many tenants were reluctant to appear on camera, reflecting the sensitivity and fear surrounding tenant-landlord relations.

By Mama A. Touray

As the Local Government Commission of Inquiry continues its investigation into local councils, Marrie Senghore, the Managing Director of Bajam Enterprise, testified before the commission regarding the fencing of the Bakoteh dumpsite which cost over D8 million and took one year to complete.

“The fencing project was for D8.5 million for the duration of 1 year. We were unable to complete the works within a year and there was an extension of time, the fencing was completed in 2021,” said Senghore when asked about the cost of the construction of the fence.

She informed the commission that Bajam Enterprise was awarded two contracts by the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC): one for fencing the Bakoteh dumpsite and another for constructing the Kanifing Municipal Library.

Regarding the discovery of the construction contract, she said that Bajam Enterprise learned about it through a newspaper advertisement and subsequently decided to submit their bid. After their bid submission, several months passed before they were invited by the KMC for discussions. She noted that the KMC called three companies individually to negotiate prices.

“We went separately. The major thing was to negotiate the terms of the payment,” she told the commission.

“Usually, for contracts, the normal thing we do is a site visit, but I cannot remember doing that for the fencing project. After the negotiation, we were informed through writing that we have been awarded the contract,” she added.

The Commission asked her to bring the letter and the incorporation documents of the company.

When inquired about the bid security deposit, she informed the commission that she did not recall making such a deposit, nor did she remember any requirement to provide bid security.

When asked for her bidding documents, she said: “I did not keep records” and Lead Counsel Patrick Gomez told her that it was her responsibility to keep records as required by law.

The Commission however requested Marrie to bring the account statements of Bajam Enterprise from May 2018 to January 2023.

By Dawda Baldeh

As crime rates rise in The Gambia, a nation once celebrated for its peace and stability, the country is gradually facing a wave of uncertainty as criminal activities continue to escalate.

In light of these issues, many individuals have expressed their concerns and questioned whether the government is prepared to take decisive action against crime in the nation.

During a recent press conference, Binta, an African descendant who moved from the United Kingdom to The Gambia, cautioned that neglecting security could seriously impact the country.

“The government will notice that people will cease investing in the country.

“Tourists will stop visiting because Americans are already stating that this is an unsafe country for their citizens,” she remarked.

Like many others, Binta emphasized tourism’s crucial role in The Gambia as one of its primary industries.

“The Gambia will face significant repercussions from these crimes if they do not take security measures seriously and address the situation.

“All these traumatic incidents cannot be prevented without a commitment from the government,” she stated.

She pointed out that the government must demonstrate to criminals that such behaviour will not be tolerated and that The Gambia is not a refuge for wrongdoers.

Consequently, she warned that this is damaging the country’s reputation.

“Not only African descendants are impacted, but Gambians as well.

“Over the years, Gambians have been killed, and to my astonishment, the government has not released any public statement condemning these crimes,” she added.

As a non-citizen, Binta advocates for a strong response to crime and emphasizes the need for safety measures.

“I want to know what we should do besides calling for help when we are attacked.

“We also want to understand what happens after a crime is committed.

“The commitment to combat crime in the country must originate from the top,” she said.

She mentioned that the police operate directly under the government’s authority, and their actions — or lack thereof — reflect the government’s responsibility.

“The police in The Gambia are underfunded, and if something happens to you and you need to contact the police, be prepared to pay for a taxi to bring them to your house to investigate,” said Lots Robertson, another African descendant.

She urged her peers to remain alert to their surroundings.

“We need to be very cautious of our environment because criminals are watching us everywhere,” she stated.

By: Dawda Baldeh

The Council of African Descendants (COAD), residing in The Gambia, has called on the government to take immediate action regarding recent tragic killings, robberies, and brutal attacks on the African Diaspora community.

They made this appeal at a press conference over the weekend, where they discussed the implications, sought justice for victims, promoted community solidarity, raised awareness, shared information, and strategized ways to support those affected.

They also expressed dissatisfaction with Gambian authorities, particularly the police, whom they accuse of failing to perform their duties adequately.

Luke McKenzie, the Chairman of the Council of African Descendants, along with Adrian Ryan, led the audience: “It comes a time when we can no longer be quiet. I remember when I first came into this country; we had legal issues, but whenever I wanted to speak out, people would tell me to stay quiet. But when lives are being taken from us, the time to stay silent is over,” he said.

Mr. McKenzie called on the government to ensure justice is served and encouraged his fellow African descendants to join hands and support each other: “Many of us have moved from different parts of the world, like America, the UK, Europe, and other places, to The Gambia to help develop this country. We are now in a situation where we are receiving news of our brothers and sisters being murdered here. These are fathers and mothers,” he added.

For his part, Adrian Ryan noted that many of those returning are responsible people with strong educational backgrounds: “Some of us are retired teachers, lawyers, doctors, and police officers. Together we can make Gambia a better place. I have lived here for five years, and I am happy. But the recent incidents are unfortunate, and we must address them with the authorities. We share this moment together because what’s happening affects the whole community,” he explained.

Empress Zara, who survived a recent violent robbery at her residence, recounted her traumatic experience: “I was left shaken and terrified in my own home. The police response was slow and unhelpful. I feel like my case is just another statistic to them,” she expressed, highlighting her dissatisfaction with the police’s handling of her case.

Most of the speakers raised concerns over the country’s insecurity, which they believe requires urgent government intervention. They called for prompt and impartial investigations into their cases, warning that failure to act would undermine the country’s security and deter visitors and investors, ultimately affecting the economy.

Meanwhile, Lots Robertson, a friend of the late Shakina Chinedu and Binta—both members of the African Diaspora living in the country—made the following remarks: “We are grieving not only for our lost friends but for the safety of our community. It is time for the Gambian government to recognize the value of every life and take decisive action to protect us.”

“My expectations of the government are to make bold and strong statements to the country about zero tolerance for these types of crimes that are happening. They need to communicate what they will do to combat these issues, where their efforts will be focused, and their strong stance on what is happening in The Gambia,” said Binta, a member of the African Diaspora.

Marr Nyang, a social activist, and Babucarr Jeng both expressed sympathy for the African Diaspora community and the unfortunate incidents they have continued to endure in the country. They called for robust implementation of security measures.

“We want the government to bring us back to a time when, even at 4 AM, you could walk freely without looking over your shoulder. The state should intensify its patrols day and night, ensuring that perpetrators are investigated, arrested, and brought to justice. The government must create a safe and secure environment where we can live in peace and harmony,” Nyang emphasized.

They warned that the lack of strong security measures to tackle crimes and punish offenders would undermine the country’s security, noting that this could place The Gambia on a dark path, tarnishing its reputation as a peaceful and secure nation.

By Michaella Faith Wright

In the heart of Busumbala, a group of determined women have come together to form the Busumbala Female Gardeners, an initiative driven by teamwork and resilience. These women plant vegetables such as tomatoes, green leaves, onions, carrots, and lettuce, with a mission to support their families, particularly their children’s education.

Keddy Kanyi, the organization’s president, shared in an interview with The Fatu Network that the garden started as a small project to uplift each other and provide for their children, mostly raised by single mothers. “This is the only business we have to support our families,” she explained. Despite the challenges, we are committed to making it work.”

One of the primary hurdles the women face is access to land. “The land we currently use is not ours — it belongs to someone else,” Kanyi revealed. “We worry about the future, not knowing when the owner may reclaim it.”

The gardeners also grapple with water-related challenges throughout the seasons. “In the rainy season, waterlogging affects our crops, and in the dry season, it’s hard to find water. Sometimes, we depend on neighbours for help,” Kanyi added. “But gardening is my passion, and I believe that together, we can inspire others in our community to come together in love and support.”

Bintou Fatty, another member of the group, emphasized the importance of hard work and collective effort. “I joined because I want to help my children and show that women can make the best of what little they have,” she said. “The strength of the organization lies in teamwork and sharing love. I hope more women will join us.”

Bassey Barrow, the group’s advisor, echoed similar sentiments. “We need support to grow. We are using borrowed land, and water remains a constant challenge for us,” she said. “But despite these difficulties, we have survived through teamwork and mutual support. We believe in our vision and know that anything is possible if we continue working together.”

Kumba Baldeh Bah, another member, highlighted additional obstacles, such as animals damaging crops during the dry season. “Women bear the brunt of many challenges at home, which is why we came together to create this organization,” Bah explained. “Our dream is to secure our own land within the next five years and expand the team to include more women. Gardening requires patience and passion, but with these values, we believe we will thrive.”

The Busumbala Female Gardeners remain optimistic about their future, determined to overcome challenges and continue supporting one another. Through teamwork and shared purpose, they are not only cultivating vegetables but also hope and opportunity for themselves and their families.

On October 24, 2024, the German Police Support Team (GPST) donated police operational and patrol vehicles, including SUVs and motorbikes, along with other equipment valued at over twenty million Dalasis to The Gambia Police Force (GPF) in a ceremony held at the Police Intervention Unit (PIU) Headquarters in Kanifing.

Inspector General of Police Seedy Mukhtar Touray expressed gratitude for the donation, stating, “The support from GPST significantly enhances our operational capacity, enabling us to better respond to emergencies and combat crime.”

GPST Head of Project Sebastian Eisenhardt echoed this sentiment, remarking, “This donation strengthens the mobility and responsiveness of Gambia’s police units, reflecting our commitment to a secure and stable Gambia through sustained collaboration.”

German Ambassador Klaus Botzet also underscored the strong bilateral ties and Germany’s continued support, including training and capacity-building, to enhance Gambia’s law enforcement capabilities.

By Alieu Jallow

In a striking display of discontent among its workforce, staff members at Zenith Bank Gambia launched a protest on Thursday, 24th October, at the bank’s head office, demanding a 50% salary increase and fair promotions. This unexpected move has brought major operations at the financial institution to a halt as employees rally for recognition and better compensation amid rising living costs.

The strike arose following a series of meetings between bank management and employee representatives that failed to yield a satisfactory resolution. With inflation skyrocketing and the cost of living in Gambia steadily increasing, many employees have voiced concerns that their wages have not kept pace. According to some employees, whose identities are protected for security reasons, the call for a 50% salary increment is not just a desire for higher pay, but a fundamental demand for a living wage that reflects the realities Gambians face today.

In a letter to management, employees expressed their dismay at the bank’s failure to honor its promises. “It has come to our attention that the MD/CEO promised Zenith Bank Gambia staff a salary increment and promotion, which was supposed to take effect this October. Staff have been patiently waiting for the increment to reflect in our accounts, but it didn’t happen. We hereby request that management make this effective, or else we, the Zenith Bank staff, will embark on a strike and involve the CBG and other necessary institutions. We are really unhappy,” the letter reads.

Zenith Bank’s Head of Internal Control and Audit, Chucks Ojianwuna, told The Fatu Network that he was unaware of any planned strike, noting that the brief disruption was due to a communication gap. He added that bank management and staff meet weekly to resolve issues and that management is carefully handling the matter. Mr. Chuks emphasized that Zenith Bank values its staff’s welfare and that the issue will be addressed at the management level.

In a later communique from our sources, it was reported that the bank had increased salaries by only 25% and failed to meet some of the staff’s other demands. Employees stated that they would not relent until their needs are fully met. “We have set up a committee to represent us, and they will submit another official letter to management. We will give them time to respond; if they don’t, we will have no other option but to strike again,” an employee representative said.

For now, the eyes of the nation—and likely many across the region—remain fixed on the outcome of this pivotal moment at Zenith Bank. The resolve of its workers and the response of management could redefine labor dynamics in Gambia for years to come. Reports indicate that only a limited number of staff, primarily foreign nationals, are currently reporting to work.

By: Michaella Faith Wright

The rising cost of rent in The Gambia is placing significant strain on tenants, with many struggling to keep up with frequent increases in housing and shop rental prices. As the housing market tightens, both tenants and landlords are expressing frustrations and calling for government intervention to ease the situation.

Abdoulie Jobe, a landlord with three houses and shops in Latrikunda German, shared insights with The Fatu Network. With over 20 years of experience, Jobe said he rents out rooms and parlors for D1,000 monthly and does not require advance payments. His shops are also rented for D1,000.

Jobe expressed the joy of having close relationships with tenants and the sense of community it fosters. “It’s a blessing to see my children play with the tenants’ children. We live like family,” he said.

However, Jobe admitted that managing rental income is not always smooth. Some tenants struggle to pay rent on time, with delays often extending into subsequent months. “Sometimes they owe me for three months, but they settle it when they can,” Jobe explained. Despite these challenges, he remains lenient. “I don’t depend on rent for survival, and I make water bills free for my tenants. I also installed individual electricity meters to avoid disputes over power bills.”

Jobe urged other landlords to show compassion. “We are one people. Let’s avoid treating our houses as strict businesses and offer reasonable rents to ease the burden on tenants.”

Peter Anozie, a Nigerian businessman who has lived in The Gambia for 12 years, lamented the steady rise in rent prices. “House and shop rents have become too expensive. Landlords don’t even notify us about increases; they just add 15% or more without notice,” he said.

Anozie noted how these rent hikes affect both personal and business lives. “We are struggling to manage. Business is no longer the same, and sales have dropped drastically. Landlords should reconsider and reduce rent prices to help us survive.”

He emphasized that sudden evictions are another challenge. “We need more time to pay rent. Being thrown out is harsh, especially for those with families to care for. If rents were affordable, we wouldn’t have to struggle every month.”

Anozie called for government intervention, urging officials to regulate material costs and rental rates. “If construction materials become more affordable, landlords might reduce rents. The Gambia is a peaceful country, but high rents are discouraging visitors and businesses from staying.”

Amie Camara, a landlady in Bijilo, also shared her experiences. “Renovating houses has become more expensive, and some tenants fail to pay rent on time, adding to our challenges,” she said.

Camara highlighted the importance of understanding between landlords and tenants. “We need cooperation to manage these issues, especially since we, too, have families to support.”

Tenants like Fatou Baldeh from Bijilo echoed similar concerns. “Rent prices keep increasing, and even Gambians like me are struggling. Some of us don’t want to move back to family homes, but the rent is unbearable. Agents are worsening the situation, charging fees as high as D5,000—equivalent to one month’s rent.”

She pleaded with landlords to ease the burden. “We only have one Gambia, and many of us have nowhere else to go.”

Single Mother Appeals for Support

Ida Sonko, a mother of four living in Bijilo, shared the harsh realities of her situation. “It’s been hard managing rent and caring for my children. I’ve even been evicted before,” she said.

To make ends meet, Sonko does laundry for others. “Life has become more difficult since rents started rising. I need help to survive, and the government must step in and talk to landlords about affordable housing.”

Conclusion

The stories from tenants and landlords highlight the growing challenges posed by rising rents in The Gambia. As prices increase across the country, both tenants and landlords are calling for understanding, fairness, and government intervention to ease the burden. While video interviews could have added more depth to these stories, many tenants feared appearing on camera, reflecting their apprehension about landlord-tenant relations.