By: Alieu Jallow

Abdoulie Keita, a Senegalese national, is currently on trial for three counts related to the creation and use of false documents. The charges, which include making false documents, forgery, and uttering false documents, were presented before Magistrate Touray at the Kanifing Magistrate Court.

The prosecution alleges that in December 2021, Keita made a false American passport bearing his name, which he used to deceive others. In the second count, it is claimed that he forged an American passport with the intent to defraud. The third charge involves Keita allegedly using a fake American passport to mislead a woman named Mamie Fatou Sallah, claiming he was an American citizen working with the National Security Agency deployed in Senegal.

During the proceedings, witness Kemo Dibba, an immigration officer, testified that he received information about Keita’s involvement in document forgery from a colleague in the Gambia Immigration Department. He described how he and his team attempted to locate Keita at his residence but were informed by a watchman that he was not home. They waited for about an hour before a vehicle arrived at the gate.

Upon meeting Keita, Dibba noted that the accused introduced himself as a National Security Agency (NSA) member overseeing operations in The Gambia and Senegal. Keita allegedly showcased various documents, including a laptop and a flat-screen, claiming to send communications. He presented a briefcase containing his birth certificate, a Senegalese passport, an American driving license, and a British passport, all bearing his image.

When questioned about his physical passport, Keita claimed he had left it in Dakar. After reviewing the documents, the officers asked him to go to the nearest immigration station, where they took his statement, charged him, and detained him. Dibba stated that Keita was charged with obtaining Gambian documents without being a Gambian national, as well as possessing a British passport and a fraudulent American driving license.

The case has been adjourned to Wednesday, 13th November, at 1:30 PM for the cross-examination of the witness.

By: Mama A. Touray

The General Secretary of the Gambia Teachers’ Union, Marie Antoinette Corr, in a statement shared with The Fatu Network in honor of World Teachers’ Day, called for greater participation of teachers in policy-making under the theme: “Valuing Teacher Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education.”

Marie Antoinette Corr urged the nation to come together to redefine the role of teachers in this new era.

“This new social contract must include greater participation of teachers in policy-making, improved working conditions, including decent staff quarters for teachers, increased remuneration to meet regional and global standards, investment in continuous professional development, the establishment of an Education Service Commission to cater to the growing services and welfare of the education sector, and respect for the teaching profession,” she said.

Marie added that a society that truly values education must place teachers at the heart of the system, recognizing their work not just as a function but as a driver of progress and transformation.

Madam Corr emphasized, “A new social contract is not only about curriculum reforms or technological advancements. It is about recognizing the dignity of the teaching profession and ensuring that teachers are equipped with the tools, training, and resources they need to excel. It is also about involving teachers in key decision-making processes.”

She continued, “When teachers are empowered to contribute their insights and experience, educational policies and reforms are more likely to succeed.”

She noted that Gambian teachers face challenges ranging from resource limitations to overcrowded classrooms, low pay, and limited opportunities for continuous professional development.

Despite these obstacles, Corr stated that teachers have consistently demonstrated resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation.

“Our work is not merely a job but a vocation that demands dedication and sacrifice. For this, we deserve recognition and the assurance that our voices matter,” she said.

Speaking on this year’s theme, “Valuing Teacher Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education,” she highlighted the importance of engaging with teachers to address the challenges they face and to acknowledge and benefit from their expert knowledge and input in education.

“Education is fundamental to any thriving society. Yet, it cannot thrive without the dedication, expertise, and passion of teachers. Educators’ voices are essential in determining how education is designed and delivered,” she said.

By: Michaella Faith Wright

In a passionate address at a recent community event, Bakary Badjie, National Assembly Member for Foni Brefet, West Coast Region, emphasized the urgent need for Gambian youth to engage in agriculture. He stressed that the country’s heavy reliance on imported rice, coupled with the lack of local production, is a contributing factor to rising prices and economic instability.

Badjie called for a national shift towards agriculture, urging young Gambians to take an active role in farming to reduce dependency on imported goods. Speaking at a community event, Badjie expressed his gratitude for the invitation, saying, “I am really glad to honor this invitation to be part of this great event. It was on short notice, but I made it a point of duty to come here.”

Drawing attention to the rising cost of living in The Gambia, particularly the price of rice, he highlighted the issue of the country’s dependence on imports. “Most of us here in The Gambia know deeply how much a bag of rice costs,” he stated. “How can the price of rice come down when we are not producing it in this country? This is an impossibility.”

Badjie urged both politicians and citizens to be honest about the challenges facing the nation. “Let us all be politicians that tell the people the reality. We need to tell them what they need to know. Look at how much a cup of rice costs—it’s too much. The reason is simple: we are not producing rice, and that’s the reality.”

He also pointed out that while politicians are in power, they are not the ones who directly control market prices. “Whatever goes up in price, it is hard for it to come down. If we had extensive agricultural farms in our country, we wouldn’t be facing issues like illegal immigration. The government needs to focus on these areas and employ the youth. Agriculture rules the world.”

According to Badjie, engaging youth in farming would help address many of the economic challenges the country is facing, including the depreciation of the dalasi. “Our currency is going down every day compared to other currencies because we are not producing anything for the world market. People might say we don’t have the machinery for farming, but we can do it if we all come together with zeal and commitment.”

He concluded by calling for a new Gambia, one where every youth actively participates in agriculture. “We want a new Gambia where every young person plays their part. It’s a collaborative effort. Together, we can build a better Gambia.”

By: Dawda Baldeh

Mustapha Ndimballan, a resident of Abuko, has threatened to take legal action against Bundung Maternal Hospital for what he described as “medical negligence” that nearly killed his wife.

Mustapha stated that his wife went to Bundung on 8th of August after feeling some discomfort in her stomach.

“She was kept there the following day, August 9, and she delivered naturally at the hospital Bundung.

“After giving birth, she continued bleeding then an operation was warranted.

“She was operated the same day in Bundung…,” he added.

According to Mustapha, his wife was discharged from Bundung on the 13th of August.

“But after reaching home she was continuously vomiting and was returned to Bundung the same day.

She was again kept in Bundung untill on the 17th of August when she was referred to EFSTH in Banjul,” he explained.

Furthermore, he noted that “at Banjul as her stomach was still swollen, she was on strong antibiotics medications to see if it would subside the stomach.

But after a week in EFSTH, there was no improvement, so an operation was performed at EFSTH on 28th August.

“This is when it was realized a mop was left in her stomach during the first operation at Bundung.”

He revealed that along with the mop 1.2 litres of pus was also drained.

According to him, this discovery came following a second surgery carried out in Banjul when they arrived. He revealed that he had immediately contacted Bundung Maternal Hospital to inform them about the matter, but they refused to acknowledge their fault.

“I wrote to the hospital asking them to compensate us, but they are not taking me seriously,” he lamented. Mustapha added that his wife is left in a life-threatening situation.

The Fatu Network also contacted Mamady Cham, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bundung Maternal Hospital, who refused to comment on the matter. He claimed that he was not aware of the situation, stating that when EFSTH discovered the surgical sponge in Mustapha’s wife’s womb, they should have informed them (Bundung) officially.

The prosecution alleges that Sarr lured the victim, a 14-year-old girl whose identity is protected by law, to his residence under false pretenses. According to the victim’s statement, Sarr then forcibly engaged in non-consensual sexual acts with her. The prosecution further claims that this was not an isolated incident, but part of a pattern of abuse that occurred over an extended period.

Court documents indicate that Sarr faces charges under section 3(1)(a) of the Sexual Offences Act 2013, which pertains to the rape of a minor. If convicted, he could face severe penalties as stipulated in section 4(cc) of the same act.

A key witness in the case, identified as the victim’s sister, reportedly interrupted one of the alleged assaults. Her testimony is expected to play a crucial role in the proceedings.

The case has drawn attention to the ongoing issue of sexual violence against minors in the region. Local advocacy groups have called for stricter enforcement of laws protecting children and harsher penalties for offenders.

As the case moves to the High Court, legal experts anticipate a thorough examination of the evidence. The defendant’s legal representation has not yet issued a public statement regarding the charges.

On this 3rd of October, Women in STEM Gambia celebrates two years of progress and impact. Over the past two years, the organization has worked to create opportunities for young girls and women to excel in STEM fields, both in The Gambia and across Africa.

Throughout this journey, Women in STEM Gambia has reached several key milestones:

• Launched Girls in STEM Chapters in senior schools and universities, providing young women with a platform to explore STEM subjects and develop essential skills.
• Hosted a series of online events where members shared expert knowledge and personal stories, offering inspiration and valuable insights into the STEM fields.
• Organized its annual conference, bringing professionals and young girls together to discuss STEM-related topics, creating connections and offering mentorship.
• Launched the STEMATHON Reality TV Show, allowing students to pitch innovative ideas that solve societal problems, showcasing their creativity and problem-solving abilities.
• Conducted training programs for both members and the public, helping individuals acquire the skills necessary to thrive in STEM fields.
• Held in-person career guidance programs, connecting students from various schools with mentors and resources to support their STEM aspirations.
• Introduced the STEM Leadership Dialogue TV Show, providing a platform for professionals, policymakers, and government officials to discuss strategies for increasing female participation in STEM.
• Expanded its presence into 16 African countries, building a strong network of women dedicated to advancing the role of women and girls in STEM across the continent.

As the organization reflects on these accomplishments, it remains more motivated than ever to support women and girls in the digital space and the broader STEM ecosystem. Women in STEM Gambia continues its mission to break barriers, create opportunities, and inspire the next generation of women in STEM. The future holds even greater promise.

By: Dawda Baldeh

A family in Sare Mawdo, located in the Lower River Region, is anxious about the disappearance of their son, Saidou Suwareh, who embarked on the notably perilous journey to Europe (the back way) several years ago. Isatou Suwareh, Saidou’s elder sister, stated that he had been in regular communication with them since arriving in Italy years ago; however, it has now been over a year since they last heard from him.

Saidou’s unexpected disappearance and the loss of communication with his family have filled their minds with troubling thoughts about whether he is dead or alive.

“Saidou is our hope, and while he was in Italy, he kept in touch with us. At times, he would send us money, and this continued for years, but suddenly he vanished, and we no longer hear from him,” Isatou Suwareh expressed. She mentioned that this situation has led the family to believe he might be dead, a thought that causes his mother to weep day and night.

“My mother has not been herself since we last heard from Saidou. I try to comfort her, but it’s challenging,” she added. Like many others, Saidou traveled to Europe in search of better opportunities, hoping to improve their situation back home.

Isatou recounted that when Saidou was at a camp in Italy a few years ago, he encountered difficulties and was forced to leave, where he eventually met a white woman who offered him shelter. However, this arrangement was only temporary, as Saidou eventually left the woman in search of a better place, Isatou explained.

She conveyed their deep concern for their brother. “We want to hear from him. If he’s in custody or deceased, we want to know,” she lamented.

Isatou noted that Saidou was the eldest son in their family, and they depended on him for many reasons. The family is appealing for assistance from Gambians in the diaspora to provide any information about Saidou, as they are left in a state of despair.

The International Trade Centre (ITC) and UNFPA, in partnership with the Kerewan Area Council, Gambia Investment and Export Promotion Agency (GIEPA) and Gambia Association for Local Government Authorities officially launched a One-Stop Shop Entrepreneurship and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Support Center in Farafenni.

Built by ITC and UNFPA under the United Nations Trust Fund for Human Security and the United Nations Migration Multi-Partner Trust Fund projects, the center aims to address both economic and social challenges. This initiative supports entrepreneurship, cross-border trade and survivors of GBV. The 7 million Dalasi (USD 100,000) funding covered the centre’s construction, furnishing and operationalisation.

The center provides services such as training, business advisory, business registration, packaging and labelling assistance and market linkages. These services aim to enhance the competitiveness of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, subsequently promoting innovation and creating employment opportunities.

Furthermore, the center has a Trade Information and Border Assistance Office to address challenges faced by small-scale cross-border traders in completing border formalities. Crucial trade information and resources are readily available.

In addition, the GBV support center provides health, legal and psycho-social services to survivors in a safe space with a view to promoting prevention as well as justice and healing.

Baboucarr Sallah, ITC Country Representative, shared: “Our vision for this center is to be a hub for nurturing business ideas, addressing GBV issues and fostering economic growth. ITC remains committed to working with partners to advance women and youth economic empowerment for national development.”

The center does not stop at business development. It also offers crucial support for survivors of gender-based violence.

Ndeye Rose Sarr, Country Representative, UNFPA Gambia, said: “This center is more than just an economic initiative. It is also a safe space for survivors of gender-based violence, providing comprehensive support services in collaboration with local authorities and partners.”

In his speech, Karl Frederick Paul, UN Gambia Resident Coordinator, highlighted the center’s broader mission: “The launch of the One-Stop Shop Entrepreneurship and GBV Support Center is a powerful testament to our shared commitment to private sector development, women and youth socio-economic empowerment and improving the resilience of vulnerable communities.”

The facilities of the center include a training room, shared offices for Business Support Organizations (BSOs), consultation rooms for GBV survivors, a meeting room and an innovation hub. These resources are designed to serve the community holistically, combining business services with social support.

Madi Kambai, Director of GIEPA, expounded on the role of the center: “The launch of this center is not just the unveiling of a building, it is the opening of sets of opportunities. The center will support small businesses and provide services to those affected by GBV.”

In conclusion, Permanent Secretary Lamin Dampha, Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, said: “The first One-Stop Shop Entrepreneurship and Gender-Based Violence Support Center in rural Gambia will provide comprehensive economic and social support services.”

This new One-Stop Shop Entrepreneurship and GBV Support Center offers the people of Farafenni and surrounding communities a critical resource to build their businesses while also providing support for vulnerable individuals. Through this initiative, ITC, UNFPA and their partners reaffirm their commitment to driving sustainable development in rural Gambia.

By Dawda Baldeh

Shine Light in Girls’ Education Gambia, an organisation dedicated to empowering girls’ education in The Gambia with support from their German partners donated learning materials to seventy-two (72) girls across four regions in the country on Sunday.

The ceremony took place at the Governor’s Office in Brikama and marked the fifth edition of this annual initiative, which began in 2019 with just six girls.

During the event, Mr. Ebrima Fadera, the president of the organisation, emphasized the importance of academic performance for the beneficiaries.

He warned that girls could lose their sponsorship if they do not achieve satisfactory results, stating, “It is not our responsibility for girls to learn; that is the responsibility of parents.”

He highlighted that while the organisation provides school materials to empower girls, parents must actively support their children’s education to ensure they take full advantage of this opportunity.

Fama Barry raised concerns about the impact of domestic work on girls’ education, noting that many parents often assign their daughters household chores that interfere with their studies.

She stressed the need for good academic results, asserting that the sponsorship would be meaningless without impressive outcomes.

Besenty Gomez, fondly called Humble Besenty, also encouraged the beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity and called on parents to serve as role models for their children.

Mr. Babucarr Fadera, a member of the organisation, echoed similar sentiments, noting that outstanding results from the girls are often celebrated online.

Other speakers, including Oumie Jammeh and Adama Jurju, reiterated the significance of girls’ education and the necessity of utilising the resources provided effectively.

Each beneficiary received two pairs of shoes, bags, exercise books, uniforms, an arithmetic set, and pencils, all aimed at supporting their educational journey.