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NPP’s Push for Permanence with Its New Bureau

By: The Fatu Network Editorial

The National People’s Party (NPP) recently inaugurated its new headquarters in Bundung, a move party officials described as a major step toward strengthening its institutional foundation. The event brought together supporters and senior officials, with President Barrow using the occasion to highlight the broader significance of the milestone.

“The inauguration of the National People’s Party (NPP) Headquarters in Bundung marked a pivotal moment in transforming NPP into a lasting institution,” Barrow said. “We are consolidating a political organisation that is not centred on any individual or personality but deeply rooted in its membership and the aspirations of the Gambian people.”

He went on to highlight his government’s achievements under NPP leadership, citing the construction of over 1,000 kilometres of roads, the establishment of the largest hospital in Farato, expanded access to electricity and clean water, and the development of thousands of new classrooms and schools.

Describing the headquarters as more than just a physical space, Barrow added: “It is a home for every NPP supporter, a centre for democracy, and a beacon of growth and prosperity for all generations.”

Is Senegal Snatching Our Oil Wells? The Gambia Deserves the Truth Now!

By Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly
Secretary General and Party Leader, Gambia Action Party (GAP)

The Gambia Action Party (GAP) registers deep concern and a strong sense of urgency over the disturbing audio clip that recently resurfaced from former President Yahya Jammeh regarding the issue of oil in The Gambia. This has sparked renewed public interest and skepticism about the fate of our natural resources—particularly our offshore oil wells—and whether they are at risk of being exploited by foreign powers, especially our immediate neighbor, Senegal.

Adding fuel to this national debate is the insightful interview conducted by Alieu Ceesay of QTV with Jerreh Barrow, the Director General of the Petroleum Commission, aired on April 1, 2025, on QTV’s State of Affairs. The information presented, while informative in parts, left many questions unanswered and has only deepened the anxiety of the citizenry.

GAP believes it is time the Government of The Gambia and the Ministry of Petroleum come forward with full disclosure. The allegations made by the former President are serious. They cannot be swept under the carpet as mere political utterances or dismissed as outdated rhetoric. Gambians have every right to know:

  1. Are our oil wells being compromised or shared unfairly with Senegal?
  2. What are the binding terms of the agreements signed with foreign oil companies and neighboring states?
  3. Is there a clear, transparent petroleum policy in place that protects The Gambia’s sovereignty and national interest?
  4. Why is the government silent in the face of these loud claims?

This is not the time for the Ministry of Petroleum to remain in its comfort zone. Transparency and proactive communication are not optional—they are a democratic obligation. The natural resources of this country belong to the people. No administration, past or present, has the moral or constitutional right to mortgage the destiny of generations unborn.

The Gambia Action Party stands firm in calling for:

  1. A comprehensive and public report on the status of The Gambia’s offshore oil blocks and any current bilateral agreements involving Senegal and other foreign interests.
  2. A National Assembly hearing to probe the claims made by former President Jammeh, with testimonies from the Ministry of Petroleum, the Gambia National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), and the Petroleum Commission.
  3. An immediate clarification from the government to either debunk or confirm the existence of covert deals or concessions that might disadvantage The Gambia.
  4. A citizens’ forum or public sensitization drive to inform Gambians about the state of our oil industry and what benefits, if any, are currently accruing to the nation.

The Gambia must not become a passive observer in matters that threaten our economic future and national sovereignty. If Senegal is indeed encroaching on our oil reserves, then it is not only an act of economic aggression—it is a betrayal of regional brotherhood. If these claims are false, the government must set the record straight with evidence, not silence.

The Gambia Action Party will continue to hold the government accountable. We are not in the business of playing politics with the future of our nation, and we urge all well-meaning Gambians, civil society actors, and the media to join in this national call for truth, transparency, and sovereignty.

The time for answers is now. Silence is not an option.

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

China’s Infrastructure Revolution:
Why West Fears East

OPINION by: Seringe S.T. Touray
Editor-In-Chief, The Fatu Network

Reviving the Ancient Silk Road

In Beijing, as we transition into Spring, temperatures fluctuate – a contrast to the invariable political climate governing China’s 23 provinces and other administrative divisions. Out here, the contrast between local realities and mainstream media narratives couldn’t be more obvious. An example of this juxtaposition can be seen in the coverage of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The BRI symbolizes one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in our modern history, and, in my opinion, the most ambitious of all. Exactly how ambitious? Depends on who you ask, and what the angle is. Now, let’s take a closer, unfiltered look.

Launched in 2013 by China’s Head of State, Xi Jinping, the initiative plans a connection between Asia, Europe, and Africa through roads, railways, ports, and other infrastructure investments. Essentially, it aims at distributing trade and economic opportunities globally.

To many, this lays out a new world order guided by China, a communist region of Asia often seen as a rival of the West, thus welcoming a more cautionary rather than positive assessment of the BRI. But are there legitimate concerns about the project? Or are criticisms clouded by anxiety over what some economists, even in the West, describe as a future rapidly tilting in favor of Chinese world dominance?

With over 140 countries participating as of 2024, the BRI encompasses 75% of Earth’s population, and over half of global GDP. To quote a portion of the official descriptions of the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP), “The Belt and Road Initiative is a bid to enhance regional connectivity.”

When President Xi introduced the BRI in Kazakhstan in 2013, what started as an idea to revive the ancient Silk Road trading routes evolved into something far more ambitious, despite minimal coverage from the West. But back in East Asia, on this eastern side of the Eurasian continent, Xi’s vision to connect China with the rest of the world through land and sea routes quickly took root, drawing nourishment from its five-thousand-year history as it evolved into the modernized concept it is today.

For those unfamiliar with the original Silk Road, it was a sophisticated network of trade routes that connected China with parts of Asia, the Middle East, and Europe over 2,000 years ago. And it wasn’t just about silk—spices, tea, gold, and even ideas and cultures moved along these routes, shaping much of early global exchange.

Now, there’s just a little twist, if I may say. The “Belt” in Belt and Road isn’t really a belt, neither is the “Road” an actual road—not in a literal sense, or traditional sense for that matter. Whereas “Belt” refers to overland trade corridors that stretch through Central Asia to Europe, the “Road” is actually a series of maritime shipping lanes running through Southeast Asia, the Indian Ocean, and on to Africa and Europe. But confusing names aside, the idea is bold, with China eager to knit together infrastructure, trade, and cooperation on a global scale.

Since its introduction, the Belt and Road has expanded to six major corridors. The most notable is the headline-grabbing $62 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, among others connecting Western China, Russia, Mongolia, Southeast Asia, and beyond.

Separately, ports are being constructed or upgraded from the South China Sea to the Mediterranean. That’s not all. China has also busied itself with what it calls the Digital Silk Road focused on building digital infrastructure and expanding technology cooperation among participating countries. This came side-by-side with the development of a Health Silk Road for health cooperation and medical infrastructure also among participating countries.

Additionally, the BRI rolled out the Ice Silk Road for Arctic shipping routes and cooperation in the polar regions, mainly with its longtime geopolitical ally, which, according to the world map, spans both Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. That’s right – Russia.

By 2017, the Communist Party under President Xi officially incorporated the BRI into its national policy, adding a target completion date of 2049. It’s worth mentioning that this would coincide with the 100th anniversary of modern China. This is also to say, the BRI isn’t just another infrastructure project; more than that, it’s become a central part of Xi’s long-term global strategy, strictly guided by his worldview.

Much of the misinformation, or perhaps innocent misconceptions, found in some mainstream coverage originates from widespread speculation. There appears to be increasing ambiguity regarding the sources of finance for this long-term megaproject, with unsubstantiated mainstream media-propelled rumors speculating about the drying out of funds, leading to project dead ends. In reality, funds for the extensive projects are funneled through a variety of institutions, namely the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank with over $100 billion in capital, the $40 billion Silk Road Fund, and China’s policy and commercial banks.

The Centre for Economics and Business Research projected that the BRI will boost world GDP by $7.1 trillion yearly by 2040, nine years before its scheduled completion. Even the World Bank estimates increased trade flows and reduced costs for member countries through the BRI.

Eastern vs. Western Worldviews

China’s approach to global infrastructure development through the BRI stands in notable contrast to Western models, whose development aid often comes with stringent political and economic conditions. The Chinese have instead introduced a “non-interference” policy in domestic affairs and present the BRI as a mutually beneficial economic partnership – an approach which has proven particularly attractive to developing nations that have historically felt marginalized by Western-dominated international institutions.

Oftentimes, China’s distinctive governance model is misunderstood in the West. A clear example of this is the broad Western-driven perception of China as a one-party state, much like the perception many have of the Russian Federation, under President Vladimir Putin.

The truth is, the Chinese political system currently includes up to eight legally recognized non-Communist parties participating in the political process, alongside China’s ruling Communist Party. The huge difference? Rather than compete for power – a move that often leads to distortions of reality and manipulations in a battle of narratives to garner support – Chinese political parties participate in what’s called “multiparty cooperation and political consultation” under CCP leadership. In essence, they each provide input on policy decisions and serve specific social and professional constituencies, functioning more as advisory bodies than adversarial opposition parties in the Western sense.

Another key difference between China and Western countries lies in their media philosophies. While some Western media organizations take an approach of constructive journalism (i.e. emphasis on solutions and positive developments), this approach seems secondary to the dominant model. What’s the dominant model? This oftentimes prioritizes conflict, controversy, and critical perspectives. This is, to be fair, partly driven by commercial realities and democratic ideals. Here, Western journalism adopts the role of a watchdog, hence ‘watchdog journalism,’ and deems its probing and confrontational approaches as essential to achieving greater transparency and accountability in a democracy.

Compare this with China’s approach, and you’ll notice a difference. Here in China, the media are largely state-directed in a way that promotes national unity, social harmony, and developmental achievements. Moreover, this direction aligns with the government’s own agenda. The West often dismisses this philosophy as propagandist in nature. Yet, for the overwhelming majority of Chinese people, this model plays an important role in fostering stability in China by reinforcing a shared national vision.

These differences do not end there. They extend to public attitudes towards leadership. I was struck by the widespread respect the Chinese express for President Xi during my visits to both Beijing and Anji. The first thought that sprang to my mind was the contrast between this and the polarized political climates seen in countries like the U.S. and U.K., where disrespect for leaders in many instances depends on party affiliation. Western media likes to portray Chinese citizens as resentful of a repressive government. However, my conversations with Chinese people from different walks of life reveal genuine pride, both in their leadership and national progress.

When Perception Meets Reality

Personally, I find that these inconsistent portrayals stain the record of some Western media that have also frequently labelled the BRI as “failing,” “collapsing,” or a “debt trap.” This attitude can also be observed in a wide range of content disseminated across the internet, not the least of which is the widely viewed 2024 YouTube video titled ‘How China’s Belt and Road Initiative Collapsed.’ The video uses dramatic language and imagery, depicting “half-built ghost projects” especially across African nations, and other participating nations “drowning in debt.” They further claim that related protests are “exploding” on different continents.

These frame the BRI as a geopolitical strategy rather than a development effort. But the fact of the matter is, it’s not exactly a zero-sum-game. Both can be true regarding China’s aims, so long as it aims in good faith. Such negative coverage invokes phrases like “setting the stage for a new cold war,” casting China’s infrastructure investments as tools of control.

A major concern associated with the BRI, according to some experts from the West, is the ‘risk’ it poses to its member countries, where experts fear such countries, mostly African, will grow more dependent on China in a power imbalance due to unsustainable debt. To support this theory, a 2023 study by AidData, which was conducted with the World Bank, Harvard Kennedy School, and the Kiel Institute, claimed that China has already issued $240 billion in emergency loans to 22 countries between 2008 and 2021, mostly to assist those struggling with BRI-related obligations.

The report warns that the lack of transparency over this $240 billion bailout could have global ramifications.

Here’s what’s interesting: this Western portrayal clashes with research and perspectives within China. In my discussions with the Chinese – and this includes government officials, scholars, as well as locals in Beijing and Anji – the BRI is consistently seen as a means of sharing prosperity across the world, particularly with member countries. A means of fostering mutually beneficial development. Even scholars like Deborah Brautigam of Johns Hopkins University challenge the “debt trap” narrative. In Brautigam’s own findings, she notes that “Chinese banks are willing to restructure the terms of existing loans and have never actually seized an asset from any country.”

Here’s the stranger bit. When countries fail to repay loans from Western nations or institutions, they sometimes do face debt restructuring, loss of economic sovereignty through imposed policy reforms, credit downgrades, and reduced access to future financing. In some cases, they are pressured into privatizing or relinquishing control of key national assets.

And even the Western borrowers are not immune. You might recall that during its debt crisis, Greece was compelled by the EU and IMF to privatize major assets, including handing over operations of 14 regional airports to Germany’s Fraport AG to secure bailout funds (Reuters, 2015).

Similar scenarios have affected some African nations. Let’s consider Tunisia, for instance. The North African country also faced demands to cut its subsidies and privatize some of its state-owned firms, sparking public backlash over fears of foreign control (Al Jazeera, 2023). The point of these examples is not whataboutism. The point is that the same mechanisms Western countries enforce when borrowers can’t repay loans are the very mechanisms they accuse China of enforcing, as if such enforcements are unheard of, when they’ve long been standard practice.

You might notice that mainstream media coverage frequently distorts the BRI’s scope through subtle framing. Reports describing the participation of “only” 140 countries obscure the fact that this represents about 75% of the world’s population—an extraordinary diplomatic feat. Criticism of the BRI’s “slow” progress ignores that it launched in 2013 with a 2049 target, making it a long-term vision. Yet it’s judged as though it should have revolutionized global infrastructure in just over a decade—an expectation not applied to Western-led efforts.

One might speculate that this pattern of negative framing reflects broader anxieties about China’s rise. Why? Let’s shift to Goldman Sachs – the global financial giant that projected China surpassing the U.S. as the largest economy by 2035-2040. And if that’s not enough reason for anxiety, President Xi himself has laid out China’s expectations, which see 2049, the 100th anniversary of the People’s Republic and the completion date set for the BRI, as the year China fully emerges as a modernized and socialist superpower. All this, alongside China’s growing regional influence in the Indo-Pacific.

To squeeze in a final example, China’s rapidly-growing BYD provides yet another case study portraying some western media distortions of the economic achievements of the Asian country. While there’s a strong presence of global brands like Toyota, Mercedes, Volvo, BMW, Audi and the like, they’re hardly any match for the rapid growth of BYD electric vehicles marking their territory on Chinese streets.

2024 saw BYD capturing a whopping 34.1% of China’s new energy vehicle market. By comparison, Tesla held only 6%, which isn’t terrible considering Musk’s company shares the local market with other competing global car brands, but with Tesla declining to 5.6% by early 2025, there’s much concern for Elon Musk to ponder as his company strives to stay relevant in Asia. Yet, in spite of this, some Western narratives remain steadfast in continuously underestimating Chinese innovation.

You might recall that back in November 2011, Musk laughed dismissively when a Bloomberg reporter asked him questions about what could become a future tight race between Tesla and BYD, which was slowly taking off at the time. “I don’t think they have a great product. The technology is not very strong,” Musk said, further declaring that Chinese manufacturing couldn’t compete on price.

As time has taught us exactly fifteen years later, Musk’s claims couldn’t be further from the truth. Yet similar dismissive attitudes to this day continue to shape some Western coverage of Chinese economic advances.

To throw in a couple of notable testimonials in favor of the BRI, Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad joined many developing countries who have welcomed the initiative for its addressing of infrastructure gaps and strategy for fostering growth. Mohamad praised it as a stringent mechanism for poverty reduction in landlocked Central Asian countries. Perhaps even more notably, the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, also described the BRI as a vehicle for accelerating the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

So far, the BRI has attracted over $1 trillion in investments across more than 150 partner countries, and has delivered railways, ports, highways, and digital infrastructure at a scale unmatched by Western-led efforts (World Bank, 2023; Council on Foreign Relations, 2024).

To those raising concerns over the ecological impact of BRI projects, China has pretty much remained transparent regarding its renewable energy investments, with President Xi publicly pledging to end all overseas coal financing. In fact, during my visit to Beijing, I’ve seen firsthand China’s sustainable commitment. Its international training centers, strategic planning, and discussions tailored to partner countries were on display at the inauguration of the Anji International Media Training Base on May 15, which I attended at the invitation of the government. The emphasis? China’s globalist vision and ecological civilization.

Remember, even in the West, China is still widely considered to be the global leader in renewable and green energy. It’s also the largest producer of renewable energy capacity.

To conclude on a more personal note, I had the pleasure of climbing one of the seven wonders of the world – the Great Wall of China. While this isn’t relevant to the BRI, it symbolizes something noteworthy: the value of experiencing anything firsthand, or in this case, China’s achievements following a five-thousand-year history of its own making, brings about something of a spiritual awakening in a world engulfed in a geopolitical battle of narratives. I’m not asking you to take my word on China’s vision or its potential for connecting the world through ambition; rather, I encourage you to approach geopolitics with an open mind and seek diverse sources of information while questioning dominant narratives – especially when they seem to consistently maintain existing power structures.

The end.

From Gunjur to Knoxville: Alhassan Darboe Nominated for Black EXCEL-ence Award

By: Alieu Jallow

Alhassan “Alex” Darboe, a Gambian-born real estate entrepreneur and community advocate, has been nominated for the prestigious Black EXCEL-ence Award. The award, part of the 2nd Annual Black EXCEL-ence Summit, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the Black community through leadership, service, and positive impact.

Darboe, originally from Gunjur in The Gambia, moved to Knoxville, Tennessee, over fifteen years ago as an international student. Since then, he has become a prominent figure in the local real estate industry. But his influence goes beyond property sales. Through philanthropy and mentorship, he has empowered countless young people in both Africa and the U.S., with a strong focus on entrepreneurship and building generational wealth through real estate.

This year’s summit theme, “Legacy, Leadership, and Leverage,” highlights individuals who are not only making a difference in their communities but also creating opportunities for others. While only one nominee will ultimately receive the award, Darboe’s selection as a finalist is already a meaningful acknowledgment of his legacy and influence.

According to the organizers, Darboe was nominated because his “leadership, commitment, and impact exemplify the very spirit of this honor.” From mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs to giving back to his hometown, his story embodies the kind of excellence the summit aims to celebrate.

In a message of gratitude, Darboe expressed how much the recognition means to him—not just for what it represents, but for the people who made it possible.

“To all of you who took the time to nominate me: thank you. Your belief in me is a reminder that I do not stand here alone. To my incredible clients, both past and present, thank you for trusting me and choosing my business to guide you through one of the most important journeys of your lives. Your support fuels everything I do. This nomination is not just a personal milestone—it’s a collective one. And for that, I am sincerely and deeply grateful.”

Nominees and their families have been invited to attend the summit, which promises not only a celebration of achievement but also an opportunity to connect and be inspired by fellow changemakers.

Repairing Broken Hearts and Damaged Reputations: WAVE Initiatives Campaign Against Discrimination Towards Witch-Hunt Victims

By: Dawda Baldeh

Sixteen years ago, in 2009, families were torn apart, and hearts and reputations were shattered when former Gambian dictator Yahya Jammeh initiated what was described as a politically motivated campaign labeling individuals as witches and wizards. Many families faced devastation as their parents were forcibly detained and made to consume concoctions, resulting in the deaths of over 40 people.

To restore and rebuild these damaged reputations, the Women’s Association for Victims and Empowerment (WAVE) yesterday completed a two-day engagement with communities and stakeholders aimed at combating discrimination against witch-hunt victims in The Gambia. Prisalla Yagu Ceesay, Co-founder and Senior Technical Advisor of WAVE, emphasized the significance of the two-day event in uniting victims, law enforcement officers, civil society organizations, and the media to assist victims in overcoming past traumas.

“Our goal is to restore social cohesion among the alleged victims in society, reduce stigma, and rehabilitate communities and individuals who have been subjected to the witch-hunt campaign,” she stated. She further mentioned that the aim is to support victims labeled as witches and wizards in rebuilding their lives while providing them with mental and physical assistance.

Hassan Baldeh, a police superintendent, described the plight of former President Jammeh’s alleged witch-hunt victims as troubling. He highlighted the crucial role the police could play in safeguarding victims, stressing that society must protect them from all forms of discrimination. “It’s disheartening to witness people discriminating against these individuals accused of witchcraft. Hearing their stories was very emotional for me, and it’s tragic that security forces were used to mistreat citizens,” he expressed. Baldeh further emphasized the importance of people supporting one another to foster harmonious living. “We must ensure that such atrocities do not occur again,” he added, pointing out that the police are dedicated to protecting citizens’ rights.

Ismaila Sonko, a resident of Esso village in the North Bank Region, recounted the incident of his father’s arrest in 2009. His father was among many accused of witchcraft by former President Jammeh. “When the soldiers arrived, they told my father he had health issues and were taking him to the hospital. He insisted that there was a hospital next to his house and should be taken there, but the soldiers refused. He was released after three days,” he recalled.

Before his arrest, he was healthy and fit, but after his release, he developed serious health problems. Mr. Sonko reflected on the societal impact that this allegation had on his father and praised WAVE for leading this initiative to assist victims in recovering from trauma and advocating for legislation to prevent further suffering. “People are aware that the allegations were false,” he added. Mr. Sonko’s father passed away in 2016, prior to Jammeh’s defeat by coalition leader President Barrow.

This initiative is supported by the Peace Building Fund, UNDP, and the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. At the conclusion of the program, participants reiterated the call for the implementation of the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) recommendations regarding the witch hunt to prevent further discrimination against victims.

GFF’s Ambitious Vision Clashes with Critics’ Outrage

Written by: ML Drammeh

The Gambia Football Federation (GFF) has unveiled a bold consultancy deal with a university professor to transform its amateur league into a professional powerhouse by 2026, but a chorus of critics led by former presidential candidate Sadibou Kamaso and echoed by two senior sports journalists and an entrepreneur, slammed the consultancy contract as a ‘smokescreen’ for mismanagement, pointing to alleged crumbling pitches and squandered funds as proof the GFF’s dream is built on shaky ground.

A Vision Unveiled Amid Skepticism

On May 28, 2025, the GFF took a significant step toward professionalizing Gambian football, signing a consultancy contract with Professor Momodou Mustapha Fanneh, a Gambian scholar with a Ph.D. in Economics from Fordham University. Presided over by GFF Second Vice President Ebou Faye, the agreement aims to craft a business plan to elevate the nation’s amateur league to professional status. “Our league is at an amateur stage, and we want to take it to another level to fulfill our election promise,” Faye declared, highlighting the need for clubs to gain financial and structural capacity to employ players and compete with Africa’s professional teams. “Clubs lose out financially when transferring players,” he added, referencing the expiration of the GFF’s UEFA Assist program for professionalization.

General Secretary Lamin M. Jassey dubbed the initiative a ‘legacy project,’ while Finance Director Kemo Ceesay lauded Fanneh’s expertise, expressing confidence in a 2026 rollout. Fanneh, acting dean of the University of The Gambia’s School of Business and Public Administration, embraced the role as a ‘national call’.

“This policy will create meaningful change for our football and the people working around it,” he said, urging swift action to harness Gambia’s youthful talent.

A Firestorm of Criticism

Yet, the announcement has sparked a firestorm. Sadibou Kamaso, a former GFF executive and 2022 presidential candidate for Team Restore Confidence, unleashed a scathing critique. “This is a carefully calculated move to misappropriate funds that should be used for meaningful development programs,” he said, questioning Fanneh’s suitability. “With all due respect to Prof. Fanneh, this is not his domain. The professional league isn’t just a business plan where you plug in figures and a nice intro.”

Kamaso’s frustration stems from what he sees as a pattern of missed opportunities. He points to the UEFA Assist program, launched in 2021 to professionalize Gambian football at no cost. The initiative included Zoom meetings with first-division clubs, a UEFA delegation visit to Banjul, and a 2021 study tour to Morocco, where Kamaso, Faye, and Competition Director Baboucarr Jobe studied a successful professional league model, fully funded by Moroccan hosts. Kamaso claims the GFF ignored the resulting report and botched follow-ups, citing a mismanaged email from then-Competition Manager Modou Jagne with a retroactively dated meeting reminder and a decision to delay professionalization to 2024/2025. “To announce a consultancy contract now is not only disrespectful to stakeholders but to all Gambians,” Kamaso fumed. “This madness has to stop.”

Crumbling Pitches, Shattered Trust

Kamaso’s outcry is amplified by voices from the media and diaspora. Momodou Gajaga, a sports presenter at QTV, minced no words: “How on earth can you professionalize your league when you don’t have a proper football pitch?” His question cuts to the heart of a broader critique: the dire state of Gambian football infrastructure. Another senior Gambian Sports journalist Baboucarr Sey echoed this sentiment : “Let’s stop fooling ourselves. We CANNOT have a professional league without playable pitches. It’s that simple. FIFA has pumped millions of Dalasis into our football infrastructure, yet we can’t point to a single stadium built from scratch. Where did it all go? Who’s accountable? Dusty community fields and poor lighting—this is an insult to Gambian football lovers. It’s a smokescreen, not development.”

From across the Atlantic, Gambian entrepreneur Alhasan Alex Darboe, based in the U.S., piled on: “The GFF is a funny and incompetent bunch. A good doctor would tell you, cure follows proper diagnosis. We have terrible, knee-damaging, leg-breaking pitches littered across the country. Instead of using FIFA funds for infrastructure, they hire a business professor with no experience in professionalizing leagues for optics. They’d never let an inexperienced surgeon operate on them, but they’ll spend millions on incompetent contractors. Dr. Fanneh is a great business professor, not a sports expert.” Darboe’s blunt assessment ended with a rallying cry: “We’re not buying it. Enough is enough.”

A Legacy or a Mirage?

The GFF’s consultancy deal is a high-stakes gamble. Can Professor Fanneh, despite lacking sports-specific experience, deliver a blueprint that transforms Gambian football?
This consultancy contract is more than a business plan, it’s a test of whether Gambian football can rise above its fractured foundation. Will the GFF score a historic goal for progress, or will critics like Kamaso, Gajaga, Sey, and Darboe be proven right, exposing another chapter of unfulfilled promises? As the nation watches, one thing is clear: without addressing the crumbling pitches and eroded trust, the dream of a professional league risks remaining a cruel mirage.

EFSCRJ Demands Accountability Over Scabies Outbreak at Brufut Quranic School

By: Alieu Jallow

The EF Small Centre for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) has called for urgent action and full accountability over a scabies outbreak at Daara Madina Suwaneh, a Quranic boarding school in Brufut Heights, where 57 out of 101 children were recently diagnosed with the disease.

In a strongly worded statement issued Tuesday, EFSCRJ blamed systemic neglect by key state institutions for the outbreak and called for immediate investigations, prosecution of those responsible, and the closure of the school pending a full assessment.

“We consider this outbreak as symptomatic of the perennial dereliction of duty by public institutions,” the Centre said, referencing Section 17 of the Gambian Constitution, which obliges public bodies to respect and protect human rights.

The Ministry of Health confirmed the outbreak on May 27, noting on its Facebook page that the affected children were found to be without “adequate medical care at the time of the investigations.” The Ministry said it is now working to provide treatment and improve hygiene at the facility. However, EFSCRJ says the problem goes beyond treating scabies.

“The children of this school have a right to the highest attainable standard of living, including hygiene, sanitation, healthcare, and safety,” the organization stated, noting that the outbreak “meant the necessary monitoring and accountability by public institutions were absent.”

EFSCRJ drew parallels to past tragedies involving children in institutions, including the 2021 Bilal Islamic School fire that killed nine, the 2022 Malagen investigation into abuse at Penny Appeal homes, and the acute kidney injury outbreak that claimed over 70 lives that same year.

“In all these cases, relevant authorities issued statements, made visits, and promised accountability, yet until today, no tangible action has been taken against perpetrators. The Gambia Police Force neither arrested nor prosecuted anyone for this fatal incident in which the right to live was destroyed with impunity,” the statement said.

EFSCRJ issued six specific recommendations, including:

  • A joint investigation by the Ministries of Health, Gender and Children, the NHRC, and the police;
  • Closure of the Daara and thorough inspection of its facilities;
  • Legal action against individuals found responsible for negligence;
  • Nationwide monitoring of all child-centered boarding schools;
  • Full implementation of the Minimum Standards of Quality Care for childcare centers;
  • Continuous oversight by all relevant government agencies.

The Centre also reminded authorities of their legal responsibilities under Section 199 of the Children’s Act, which mandates inspections of childcare facilities every six months.

“If this was done, these deaths and diseases in boarding schools and childcare homes would have been avoided,” the statement added.

“Public institutions are created for a purpose, and they must be seen to fulfill their purpose with diligence, effectiveness, and efficiency,” EFSCRJ concluded. “EFSCRJ will continue to monitor this matter to ensure transparency and accountability.”

The Janneh Commission: Fact-Finding or Overreach? Revisiting the Janneh Commission’s Mandate

Written by: Momodou Ndow

Whenever there is a controversy, Gambians tend to take sides, and the debate quickly becomes partisan. Rather than focusing on facts or substance, many resort to defending, deflecting, and insulting. The truth becomes secondary to loyalty. People create enough noise to bury inconvenient truths.

According to Mustapha Darboe ofThe Republic, during an interview on Kerr Fatou, members of the UDP, NPP, and APRC were all implicated in the looting of Goloh’s assets. To quote Mustapha: “Mole mang kaati jang. Gambiano nengo leh diyata, moe tiling ndingo mang siya. Nee taata foe yalongko sange ntay la hero fanang daa beh kuwol kono lay.”

Yep, I totally agree with Mustapha Darboe. Gambianol mang tiling! Ngee jubadi denge barri, motah dayka bi kaliss coat. With that said, my aim in this piece is to focus on substance, and let the noise pass me by.

The Role of a Commission of Inquiry

What exactly is the function of a Commission of Inquiry?

“A commission of inquiry is a fact-finding body, typically established to investigate matters of public interest or to gather information necessary for policy decisions. Their main job is to conduct thorough investigations, make findings based on evidence, and provide recommendations for action.”

When the Janneh Commission of Inquiry was established in July 2017, Mr. Surahata Janneh and Mrs. Amie Bensouda were appointed as Chairman and Lead Counsel, respectively.

As Chairman, Mr. Janneh was responsible for setting the agenda, moderating discussions, approving materials, prioritizing tasks, communicating decisions, and ensuring the commission reaches a conclusion.

Ms. Bensouda, as Lead Counsel, was tasked with developing investigative strategies, identifying and examining witnesses, presenting evidence, ensuring fairness, advising on legal matters, and contributing to the final report.

The Sale of the Assets: A Legal Question

In the wake of The Republic’s explosive investigative report implicating the Janneh Commission in the sale of Goloh’s assets, a fundamental question arises: If the TRRC as a fact-finding commission (just like the Janneh Commission), was not involved in implementing its recommendations, why was the Janneh Commission involved in disposing of assets? Did they have the legal authority to do so?

Constitutional lawyer Mr. Lamin Darboe argues that the Janneh Commission did not have the legal mandate to sell the assets. According to him, Section 202(2)(D) of the Constitution makes it clear that the Commission’s authority was limited to preserving, not disposing of, those assets.

Here is what Section 202 states:

Functions and powers of 202 Commission:

(1) A Commission of Inquiry shall –

  • (a) make a full and impartial investigation into the matter in respect of which the Commission is established; and

  • (b) furnish in writing a report on the results of the inquiry, including a statement of the reasons leading to the conclusions of the Commission.

(2) A Commission of Inquiry shall have all the powers, rights and privileges of a judge of the High Court at a trial in respect of –

  • (a) enforcing the attendance of witnesses and examining them on oath, affirmation or otherwise;

  • (b) compelling the production of documents;

  • (c) issuing a commission or request for the examination of witnesses abroad;

  • (d) making interim orders.

Regarding his remarks about Section 202 (2)(D): Mr. Darboe emphasizes that interim orders are, by definition, temporary. They are designed to maintain the current “state of affairs” or “prevent harm” until a final decision is reached.

Therefore, the Commission could only issue such orders, not permanently dispose of assets. If this interpretation is correct, and it appears to be both reasonable and constitutionally valid, it raises serious ethical concerns about the actions of the Janneh Commission. Both Mr. Janneh and Ms. Bensouda are seasoned lawyers who must have understood that the Constitution does not grant the Commission the authority to sell any assets.

This leads to an important question: Why did Mrs. Bensouda, as Lead Counsel and legal adviser to the Commission, not caution against selling the assets? Her role was precisely to guide the Commission on legal matters, and if the mandate only allowed preservation through interim orders, then the sale of assets was outside its scope.

Minister Sillah Clarifies GCAA Reform: ‘We’re Handing Over Assets, Not Selling Them’

By Michaella Faith Wright

The Minister of Transport, Works, and Infrastructure, Ebrima Sillah, has clarified that the government is not selling public assets under the ongoing reforms at the Gambia Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), but rather handing them over to capable operators who can run them efficiently without incurring losses to the state.

Speaking on Coffee Time with Peter Gomez, Minister Sillah emphasised that the current initiative aims to ensure that critical national assets are managed competently and sustainably.

“We are not selling any assets. What we are trying to do is hand over the assets to someone able and capable of running them amicably, without bringing any losses to the state,” Minister Sillah explained.

He also pointed out that no government anywhere is expected to continuously provide funds to cover the salaries of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs).

“No government will give you money to be able to pay the salaries of SOEs. In our current situation, the government remains one of the biggest employers, especially for highly qualified and educated people. NGOs and the private sector also play a major role in employment, but when it comes to investing in training and professional careers, it’s primarily the government,” he said.

Minister Sillah said some reforms are necessary, citing the Gambia Civil Aviation Authority as an example. He explained that the Authority is currently performing dual roles—regulatory and operational, which should ideally be separated.

“At the airport, when there’s no electricity at the terminal, when water supply fails, or when the air conditioning system isn’t working, the operating company must be held to account. Even issues like poor toilet conditions that people complain about—these are the things we deal with daily,” he noted.

He further revealed that a draft bill is being finalised to legally address these operational and regulatory challenges.

“The draft has been prepared by the Ministry of Justice in collaboration with a consultant. Once approved by the Cabinet, it will be taken to the National Assembly for legislation,” he stated.

Minister Sillah assured the public that the goal of the reforms is to enhance efficiency, professionalism, and service delivery without compromising state interests.

Power Play or Foul Play? Gambia WFA Election Sparks Legal Scrutiny

By Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

In a showdown that has rocked Gambia’s women’s football Association election, Adama Jarju’s Team Tahawal Women Football has challenged the re-election of Sainabou Cham as President of the Gambia Women’s Football Association (WFA) on May 24, 2025, alleging constitutional violations and electoral misconduct, and has submitted a petition to the National Assembly Select Committee on Sports to cancel Cham’s unopposed victory, thereby igniting a fierce battle for transparency and justice that threatens the future of women’s football in Gambia.

Roots of the Controversy

The conflict began at a failed congress on May 10, 2025, when Team Tahawal, led by Adama Jarju, raised alarms over the electoral process, alleging “systemic failures.” Their petition, submitted on May 25 and signed by Jarju, Secretary General Assan Jatta, and 1st Vice President Alpha Badjie, Esq., outlines serious breaches of the WFA Constitution and the Gambia Football Federation (GFF) Electoral Code, prompting their refusal to participate in the May 24 congress.

Team Tahawal’s Allegations

On election day, Jarju, Team Tahawal’s presidential candidate, withdrew after completing the nomination process, citing “constitutional malpractice.” This left incumbent Sainabou Cham to secure victory unopposed. The petition details several violations that, according to Team Tahawal, undermined the election’s legitimacy.

The electoral committee was allegedly formed in violation of Article 29.2 of the WFA Constitution, which mandates that “Elections shall be conducted by an electoral committee which shall be elected by the General Assembly in the AGM before the elective congress in compliance with the GFF Electoral Code.” Instead, stakeholders were compelled to vote on the committee’s approval during the May 10 congress, a process that failed to meet the required two-thirds majority under Article 30.4, which states: “A proposal for an amendment to the Statutes shall be adopted only if two-thirds of the members present and eligible to vote agree to it.” With 43 eligible voters, at least 29 votes were needed, but the vote resulted in only 25 in favour and 13 against, rendering the committee’s appointment “unconstitutional and invalid,” the petition argues.

The petition further alleges that the Upper River Region Football Association (URRFA) was allowed to vote despite a High Court injunction barring their participation due to unresolved legal issues. Team Tahawal called this a “direct affront to the rule of law,” noting that URRFA lacks active women’s football programs and a legitimate executive body, as its leadership’s term had expired without a valid congress.

Additionally, unauthorised voters, including regional presidents who serve on the GFF Executive Committee, allegedly cast ballots, violating Articles 22.3 and 22.4 of the WFA Constitution. These articles restrict voting to authorised delegates from the 10 First Division clubs, 12 Second Division clubs, and seven Regional Women’s Football Committees, as outlined in Article 11.1. The petition claims these presidents, who are not members of the Regional Women’s Football Committees, voted to support Cham, their GFF colleague, and that “bona fide members of the Regional Women’s Football Committee were side-lined,” with some regions bringing more than the allowed three delegates to “stack the vote.” A specific example cited is the Women’s Football Coordinator of CRRFA, who was barred from attending by her Regional President.

The petition also points to violations of the GFF Electoral Code, which governs WFA elections as an allied association. Article 4 requires the electoral committee to be elected at least six months before the congress, a rule ignored in this case. Furthermore, no Election Appeals Committee was established, as mandated by Article 12, leaving no mechanism for addressing grievances. The petition highlights concerns raised by Mary Decker, the electoral committee’s vice chair, who warned of a “series of constitutional violations” that would “seriously undermine her integrity” if she presided over the election. Despite her objections and a request to “clear her head,” Ba S. Jabbie, another committee member, “unilaterally took it upon himself” to proceed, an action Team Tahawal deems “against the doctrines of natural justice and fair play.”

The petition also questions the committee’s composition, noting that it originally included Mr. Jawla of the National Sports Council (NSC) as chair, alongside Decker and Jabbie. Team Tahawal requested Jawla’s recusal due to his role as NSC Executive Director, but no replacement was appointed, leaving Decker and Jabbie to oversee the process.

Ba S. Jabbie’s Defence

In an interview with The Fatu Network, Ba S. Jabbie dismissed the allegations as “false and misleading.” He insisted he lacked the authority to subvert the constitution, emphasising his role as an impartial overseer unaffiliated with the GFF or WFA. Jabbie recounted arriving at the May 10 Annual General Meeting (AGM) to find a heated debate over the electoral committee’s legality. A vote, he said, mandated the committee to dissolve the executive and set a new election date for May 24. Both camps, including Jarju’s, participated in the nomination process, and all but one club confirmed the new date. Jabbie argued that Jarju’s withdrawal on election day left the committee no choice but to proceed, stating, “I cannot preside over an election as a single person.”

Mary Decker’s Reservations

Mary Decker, the electoral committee’s vice chair, expressed caution on election day, as reported by other journalists. “I am not here to butcher any constitution,” she declared, emphasising her role was to conduct the election, not interpret rules. Citing a “series of constitutional violations,” Decker voiced reluctance to proceed and requested time to “clear her head,” highlighting her concerns about the process’s integrity.

Team Tahawal’s Demands

Team Tahawal’s petition calls for urgent action from the National Assembly Select Committee on Sports, demanding the “immediate nullification of the election results,” an independent audit by a neutral body, fresh elections under strict constitutional and electoral code compliance, and the suspension of officials responsible for the irregularities. “The credibility and future of women’s football depend on lawful, transparent, and accountable leadership,” the petition states, urging the Committee to address the matter with the urgency it deserves.

The National Assembly Select Committee on Sports has yet to respond, but the outcome of this petition will significantly shape the future of women’s football in Gambia.

Push for Women’s Representation in District Tribunals Gains Ground in Upper Fulladou West

By Alieu Jallow

Efforts to improve inclusive representation in local justice delivery are taking shape in Upper Fulladou West, where the district chief has taken concrete steps to include women in the district tribunal court, a move influenced by ongoing advocacy from Activista The Gambia.

Chief Ali Modou Touray of Upper Fulladou West said he has formally recommended a woman from Sare Silleri to serve on the tribunal following a series of community consultations. His decision is part of broader efforts to ensure the tribunal reflects the diverse community it serves, particularly women.

“The absence of women in tribunal courts often leads to delayed judgments. Many women are hesitant to open up about their issues, especially in a setting dominated by men. This can result in outcomes that don’t always favour them,” Chief Touray explained.

He noted that his consultations included engaging women from across his district to help identify a suitable female representative. This process led to selecting a woman who showed strong interest in serving. A formal recommendation was submitted to the Chief Executive Officer of the Janjanbureh Area Council, but nearly two years later, her appointment remains unconfirmed.

Chief Touray expressed frustration over the delay and emphasised the importance of representation in achieving fair and timely justice. He also commended Activista The Gambia for its sustained advocacy and capacity-building programs, which he said have improved the knowledge and effectiveness of tribunal members.

“The capacity-building trainings have not only enlightened my team but have also created space to discuss long-overdue reforms, including a review of the outdated District Tribunals Act of 1933. For instance, there are fines where, if someone is found guilty, they are charged D50. This no longer reflects today’s realities,” he said.

The Chief further called for youth representation in tribunal courts, arguing that their perspectives are essential in building a more responsive justice system. However, he pointed out that poor wages for tribunal members remain a major challenge.

“It’s difficult for my members to meet their basic needs with the current salary structure. Most of them don’t even have the means to travel to Bansang for court hearings regularly. This makes their work extremely difficult. I’m calling for reforms and increased remuneration,” Chief Touray added.

Activista’s ongoing work in the district is part of a broader advocacy effort to promote inclusive representation and improve justice delivery at the grassroots level, with a focus on both gender and youth inclusion.

Deputy Speaker Njie Meets Austrian Parliamentary President to Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation

Editor’s Note: The following is a press release issued by the National Assembly of The Gambia. It is published here in full, without edits.

26th May 2025 – Vienna, Austria

The Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of The Gambia, Hon. Seedy S.K. Njie, on Monday, 26th May 2025, paid a courtesy call on His Excellency Walter Rosenkranz, President of the Austrian Parliament, at the Austrian Parliament Building in Vienna.

Hon. Njie is currently in Vienna at the invitation of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), underscoring The Gambia’s increasing engagement with international institutions, particularly in the area of peaceful nuclear applications and development.

The high-level engagement with the Austrian Speaker aimed at advancing parliamentary diplomacy and exploring opportunities for enhanced bilateral and multilateral cooperation. Discussions centered on strengthening institutional collaboration in areas of technical assistance, human resource development, and capacity building between the legislative institutions of both countries.

Both parties exchanged views on the role of parliaments in fostering global partnerships, promoting democratic governance, enhancing oversight, and supporting sustainable development. The dialogue also emphasized the potential for cooperation in professional development and technical exchange programs for parliamentary members and staff.

Deputy Speaker Njie highlighted the National Assembly’s commitment to fostering strategic partnerships that support legislative effectiveness, transparency, and innovation. He commended Austria’s strong parliamentary governance structures and expressed keen interest in formal cooperation frameworks, including training programs and inter-parliamentary exchanges.

As a tangible outcome of the meeting, Hon. Njie proposed the establishment of a Parliamentary Friendship Committee between the two legislatures—a proposal that received immediate endorsement from President Rosenkranz. The Austrian Speaker pledged to dispatch a parliamentary delegation to Banjul before the end of 2025 as a demonstration of Austria’s commitment to enhanced collaboration.

In his remarks, President Rosenkranz welcomed the initiative and lauded The Gambia’s parliamentary leadership for its proactive engagement in international dialogue. He reaffirmed Austria’s readiness to partner with The Gambia in promoting good governance, institutional development, and global peace through strengthened legislative cooperation. President Rosenkranz further directed his Clerk to liaise closely with his Gambian counterpart to operationalize the agreed initiatives.

The meeting was also attended by His Excellency Kronsteiner, Honorary Consul of The Gambia in Vienna; senior officials from both legislative institutions; and Mr. Sainey Konteh, Director of Table Office at the National Assembly of The Gambia.

This visit marks a significant milestone in The Gambia’s parliamentary diplomacy and reflects its broader foreign policy commitment to fostering cooperation, knowledge-sharing, and institutional development with global partners.

Jarra Residents Slam NAMs Over Representation Flaws

By Dawda Baldeh

Residents of the Jarra Central and East constituencies in the Lower River Region have criticised their National Assembly representatives for their inadequate representation in parliament.

They made these remarks in Bureng at the ongoing nationwide constituency consultative dialogue led by the National Council for Civic Education (NCCE), with funding from UNDP.

This tour aims to enlighten locals about the content of the 2024 draft constitution, allowing residents to express their views on specific clauses and provide feedback. The event attracts lawmakers, community leaders, religious groups, village heads, youth leaders, and district chiefs, among others.

In Jarra East, a sharp twist took place as locals hit hard at their parliamentarians.

“Let our National Assembly members tell us where they are investing the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) in Jarra,” Alhagie Tairu Jikineh questioned.

He alleged that the money meant for communities has not been forthcoming.

“We are not saying they should give us their monthly salaries, but the money allocated to us should be given to us,” he emphasised, noting that this should be done transparently. As the meeting progressed, divergent views emerged with locals calling for accountability and proper representation.

“I’m quoting the NAM for Jarra Central, Hon. Kebba Jallow, who said they (NAMs) will do all it takes to make sure the 2024 draft is passed. So, this simply means our gathering here is not important because our NAM has taken a stand without consulting us or taking our concerns,” said Sarjo A. Ceesay, a youth leader.

Sarjo, who is a former youth parliamentarian in Jarra, described this as improper representation.

“This is not how you should represent us. You should listen to our voices and use them in parliament to address our concerns,” he said.

Mr. Ceesay further urged the electorate to hold their lawmakers accountable.

“If you represent people very well, you will not fear losing elections because you will not lose,” Mr. Jikineh added.

He emphasised that any member of parliament who neglects their duties will be voted out.
On the issue of presidential term limits, Mr. Jikineh suggested a twenty-year term, however, he clarified that if a leader fails to deliver, he or she can be voted out after one term.

Meanwhile, Momodou Dem, the alkali of Dongoro Ba, who clarified that his remarks are personal, has urged lawmakers to return the 2020 draft constitution.

“When people talk about the 2024 draft, I get angry because we wasted one hundred and sixteen million dalasis (D116m), on the 2020 draft constitution. We should’ve been allowed to pass and make the necessary amendments,” he argued.

He noted that this money wasted on the 2020 draft constitution should’ve been utilized to address other problems in the country.

“Our money and voices were wasted just like that. We are talking about the 2024 draft constitution, but our money will be wasted too,” he added.

He called on National Assembly Members to put partisan and personal interests aside and bring back the 2020 draft with the necessary amendments to pass it.

Kiang Central Councillor Calls for Greater Support for Women in Politics

By Alieu Jallow

Fatou Yabou Manjang, the Lady Councillor for Kiang Central, has raised concerns over the persistent social stigma and discrimination hindering women’s participation in politics and leadership roles in The Gambia.

During a capacity-building workshop on inclusive representation and the review of the District Tribunal Act, held in Jarra Soma and organised by Activista The Gambia, Councillor Yabou emphasised that outdated cultural beliefs remain a major obstacle. She noted that many men, influenced by these traditional views, continue to discourage and marginalise women who show interest in political leadership.

In a side interview with The Fatu Network, Councillor Yabou further highlighted that, beyond cultural barriers, financial constraints play a critical role in limiting women’s political ambitions.

“Finance has been a great challenge because politics demands resources. You can’t contest for a political position without the necessary funding. If you don’t have the resources, you often have to rely on a political party for support,” she explained.

Women in The Gambia make up of more than half of the population and about 57% of registered voters, yet their representation in political leadership remains low. In the 2022 National Assembly elections, only 3 out of 58 seats—roughly 5%—were occupied by women, marking a decline from previous years. Women currently hold just 13.6% of cabinet positions and 7% of local councillor roles.

Several factors contribute to this underrepresentation, including socio-cultural norms, limited access to resources, and the absence of legal frameworks such as gender quotas. Although The Gambia ratified the Maputo Protocol, which promotes women’s participation in politics, the 2020 Constitution Promulgation Bill, containing provisions for reserved seats for women, was rejected by the National Assembly.

Public sentiment, however, appears to support gender equality in politics. A 2022 Afrobarometer survey found that 74% of Gambians believe women should have equal opportunities to be elected to public office, while 71% believe the government should do more to promote women’s rights.

Against this backdrop, Councillor Yabou-Manjang called on both the government and civil society organisations to take deliberate steps to empower women politically, including financial assistance and continuous capacity building.

“The government must make it a priority to empower women who want to contest for political office. Any woman who shows interest should be adequately supported, especially financially, so they, in turn, can support and inspire other women,” she urged.

These discussions, championed by Activista The Gambia, are part of a broader effort to promote inclusive governance and strengthen grassroots representation across the country.

Bakary Badjie Launches Presidential Ambition with First Rally in Foni Bintang

By: Alieu Jallow

Hon. Bakary K. Badjie, National Assembly Member for Foni Bintang, held his first political rally in his home constituency on Saturday, May 24th, 2025, declaring his intention to contest the 2026 presidential election.

Addressing a crowd of supporters, Hon. Badjie urged Gambians to put aside their differences and unite for peace and national development. He criticized what he described as the growing culture of “cheap popularity,” where some politicians seek public approval by distributing footballs, jerseys, and sponsoring short-term gardening projects, which he claimed are not sustainable.

“The time has come for serious leadership. My ambition is born from the cries and struggles of ordinary Gambians—not from wealth or popularity, but from a desire to change the narrative and rescue our country from corruption,” Badjie told the gathering.

He expressed deep concern over the high number of Gambian youth who risk their lives trying to reach Europe through dangerous migration routes. “I am contesting with disappointment—disappointment in the number of young lives lost at sea, lives that are unaccounted for. If there were decent jobs and real opportunities here, would our young people be dying in the Mediterranean Sea? I clearly remember a time when graduating from college meant you automatically got a job. Today, it’s the opposite. You spend D36,000 on education, and still there’s no job. Even those who make it to university can’t find scholarships to support their studies,” he questioned.

Hon. Badjie also addressed the economic pressures facing the country, pointing to the declining value of the Gambian dalasi against major foreign currencies. “The dalasi used to hold strong value, which attracted foreign nationals to come here and work. But now the dalasi is weakening—CFA is at D630, and one euro is at D80. This decline is driving up the cost of living and basic food prices,” he explained.

He criticized the government’s strategy of outsourcing state-owned enterprises to foreign companies, arguing that it poses a threat to national sovereignty. “We are gradually selling the country. This is not the direction a developing nation should be heading,” Badjie said.

On national security, he voiced concern over the rise in violent crimes and called for urgent reforms. He positioned himself as part of a new generation of leadership ready to take bold steps. “I can’t sit and fold my arms while my people suffer from low wages and a struggling health sector. I am done waiting—now is the time to act,” he stressed.

He ended his address with a call to action: “It’s either now or never. We must stand for our nation—without retreat, without surrender.”

Citizenship & Presidential Term Limits Clause Discussion Ignites Debate at NCCE Consultative Dialogue

By: Dawda Baldeh

At the ongoing nationwide constituency consultative dialogue led by the National Council for Civic Education (NCCE), discussions on the citizenship clause and presidential term limits have generated significant debate among community members.

During the gathering in Farafenni, various speakers voiced differing opinions on several clauses, including citizenship, presidential term limits, and marriage rights. Local representatives shared their perspectives on these clauses and actively participated in the discussions.

“I believe citizenship should be categorized into different classes to clarify who is eligible to vote and who is not,” stated Lamin Ceesay, a Farafenni resident. He warned that providing identical documents to everyone without distinctions could lead to electoral fraud.

“I want to understand what documents a family is entitled to if they migrate to the country,” Yama Boye sought clarification. “When individuals possess dual citizenship, if not managed properly, it could lead to confusion,” remarked Ebrima Cham, another participant.

As the conversation continued, various opinions surfaced on these topics. While some strongly supported the two-term presidential limit, others contended it was unnecessary. “For me, having term limits isn’t crucial; what we need is a leader who fears God and can develop the country,” expressed Fana Jobe. Meanwhile, Isatou Gaye emphasized that implementing presidential term limits is essential for strengthening democracy.

Regarding the presidential age requirement, differing opinions emerged. Younger participants argued that the 30-year minimum is excessive, while some older individuals suggested raising it to 40 years for presidential eligibility.

Ansumana Ceesay, Program Manager at the National Council for Civic Education (NCCE), stated that the constituency consultative dialogue aligns with their mission to educate, inform, and raise awareness about national policies and programs. He emphasized that they are not tasked with persuading people to accept the 2024 draft constitution but rather to inform the public about its contents.

“Our role is to educate people on what is included in the 2024 draft constitution. We guide them through each clause and solicit their opinions on various sections so we can gather their feedback,” he explained. Mr. Ceesay described this as an essential engagement that will help citizens comprehend the constitution’s contents, enabling them to make informed choices. “We asked individuals for their views on multiparty democracy, and interestingly, some proposed a two-party system. This indicates that we are not imposing anything on the people,” he added.

In the 2024 draft constitution, the citizenship clause specifies four categories: citizenship by birth, by descent, naturalization, and marriage. This topic occupied a significant portion of the discussion, as attendees showed considerable interest in this area. The meeting also addressed other key topics outlined in the draft constitution.

Similar discussions took place in Kerewan and Kuntaya in the North Bank Region, where citizens, district chiefs, National Assembly Members, and locals convened to deliberate on the contents of the 2024 draft constitution.

Jarra West Chief Decries Lack of Tribunal Structures, Poor Remuneration for Tribunal Members

By Alieu Jallow

The Chief of Jarra West, Yaya Jarjusey, has expressed serious concerns regarding the inadequate infrastructure for district tribunals and the low remuneration for tribunal members, asserting that these issues significantly impede the effective delivery of justice at the grassroots level.

Chief Jarjusey made these remarks during a capacity-building session on inclusive representation and a review of the District Tribunal Act. The training, organised by Activista The Gambia, assembled traditional leaders, tribunal members, and civil society stakeholders to evaluate the relevance of conventional justice systems in modern governance.

Speaking to The Fatu Network, Chief Jarjusey emphasised the lack of appropriate facilities for conducting tribunal hearings.

“We do not have a structure where we can hold our hearings, we don’t even have a courtroom. Cases should not be heard in open spaces, especially not in the ‘Bantaba.’ A hearing should be conducted in a room that offers privacy and comfort for the complainant, defendant, and tribunal members to allow for a fair and free flow of the process,” he stated.

He further lamented the overwhelming workload placed on tribunal members, who receive a modest monthly stipend of D1,500—an amount he says is not reflective of their responsibilities nor sustainable under the current economic climate.

“Our tribunal members are paid D1,500. It used to be D1,000 until a recent increment of D500, which still isn’t enough to buy a bag of rice. This amount does not reflect the critical role these members play in maintaining peace and resolving disputes at the community level. We are seriously challenged in retaining tribunal members and even police support. I am appealing to the government and other stakeholders to support my tribunal members,” he added.

Chief Jarjusey praised Activista The Gambia for initiating the program, calling it a much-needed effort that strengthens the work of traditional authorities. He emphasised that the current laws governing district tribunals are outdated and no longer match the present-day realities, calling for comprehensive legal reforms.

“This capacity-building workshop by Activista is very important and complementary to our duties. Key issues regarding tribunal procedures and laws are being addressed, and the recommendations made will go a long way in supporting legal reforms,” he noted.

He concluded by calling on the central government to take responsibility for providing proper tribunal infrastructure—a duty he said was originally assigned to local councils, which have failed to deliver.

“It was the mandate of area councils to build courtrooms for tribunals and pay tribunal members, but since the advent of the current administration, they have failed in both areas. No courtrooms have been constructed, and our members’ stipends remain inadequate,” he asserted.

The workshop is part of a broader initiative by Activista The Gambia to strengthen community-level justice and foster inclusive governance across the country.

New Study Sheds Light on the Immune Responses to COVID-19 in The Gambia, Offering Insights into Africa’s Lower-Case Numbers

MRCG

A new study published in Nature Communications Medicine Journal has revealed that a significant portion of the Gambian population had already developed strong immune responses to COVID-19 before the arrival of the Delta variant, despite the low number of reported cases in the country.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused widespread illness and disruption worldwide. The study, led by researchers at the Medical Research Council Unit, The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, provides new insights into how African populations responded immunologically to early waves of COVID -19.

Between March and June 2021, researchers collected nasal swabs and blood samples from 349 unvaccinated individuals across 52 households. They measured T cell and antibody responses in the blood and mucosal samples, to better understand how people responded to COVID -19.

The study found that 78% of adults aged 18–49 had evidence of prior infection, compared to just 26% of children under five. This suggests that children were less likely to be infected and may have had different immune responses than adults.
Individuals previously infected with early strains of the SARS-CoV-2 virus appeared to have immune responses that may have helped protect them from more severe outcomes when newer variants like Delta and Omicron emerged.

Researchers also found that some individuals who did not show detectable COVID-19 antibodies nevertheless had T-cell responses to COVID-19 antigens. This could mean some people were able to fight off the virus without developing the traditional antibody response measured in most tests, or that they had been exposed to related viruses before the pandemic began and had some cross-protective immunity.

“We have few in depth immunity studies to the SARS-CoV-2 virus from African populations, where disease severity was lower compared to HIC for various reasons. Our data show that age and hybrid immune responses are likely to have played a role in protective responses in this community,” said Prof. Beate Kampmann, the study’s Principal Investigator, former Head of the Vaccines and Immunity Theme at MRC Unit, The Gambia and director of the Centre for Global Health at Charité-Universitätsmedizin in Berlin.

“This study offers valuable insight into how different arms of the immune system in our bodies were activated after COVID-19 infection,” said Dr Ya Jankey Jagne (PhD), the lead author of the paper and co-lead of the laboratory team. “Our data reinforce that antibody-based seroprevalence estimates may significantly underestimate true burden of COVID-19. Incorporating T-cell assays provides a more comprehensive measure of population exposure and immunity”, she concluded.

By better understanding how diverse immune systems respond to viruses like SARS-CoV-2, scientists can improve global strategies for vaccination, treatment, and pandemic preparedness.

About Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia (MRCG) at LSHTM

MRC Unit The Gambia is a centre of excellence for scientific research and innovation, with a vision to lead health research to save lives in Africa and improve health across the world. With more than 75 years’ experience in sub-Saharan Africa delivering research aimed at reducing the burden of illness and death in low- and middle-income countries, MRCG brings world class research technology to The Gambia, invests in life-changing disease surveillance and preparedness, and is training the next generation of researchers. Over this period, the Unit has conducted its research covering 3 broad themes – Disease Control and Elimination, Nutrition and Planetary Health and Vaccines and Immunity.

MRCG also support The Gambia Government and surrounding countries with health care knowledge to guide national policies and national development priorities to improve population health and resilience. For more information and latest news, visit our Home page or social media channels X Facebook LinkedIn or email for enquiries.

About (Funders/Partners)

The study is part of the TransVIR project (Transmission of Respiratory Viruses in Households in The Gambia) and was funded by a United Kingdom Research and Innovation Grant (no.MC_PC_19084).

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Gambian Football Star Yankuba Minteh Crowned Person of the Year at Heroes Awards 5.0

Brighton football sensation Yankuba Minteh, born in The Gambia, stole the spotlight at the fifth edition of the Heroes Awards last week, claiming the coveted Person of the Year title at a star-studded ceremony celebrating global excellence. The 20-year-old winger, hailed as a “trailblazer on and off the pitch,” was honoured for his transformative influence beyond football, cementing his status as a role model for a generation.

Held on 17 May at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Conference Centre, the Heroes Award 5.0 brought together luminaries from The Gambia and beyond. The event, punctuated by electrifying performances by music legends Youssou N’Dour, Jaliba Kuyateh, and ST, recognised outstanding contributions across sectors including sports, environment, philanthropy, and healthcare.

The evening saw a host of Gambian changemakers take centre stage. Honourable Cherno Ceesay received the Trailblazer Award for his visionary leadership and groundbreaking work as he continues to pave the way for future generation, while environmental activist Muhammed Hydara secured the Green Award for his relentless advocacy in combating climate change.

In philanthropy, the HMD Charity Foundation was named Philanthropist of the Year for its life-changing initiatives in transforming lives and communities through selfless giving. Agricultural innovator Aji Gass Ceesay earned the Agricultural Leadership Award for impacting food security and agricultural development.

Youth, Education, and Healthcare Champions

Joyce Riley, 24, was celebrated with the Exemplary Youth Award for her dedication and impact. The Talinding Islamic Institute claimed the Education Prize for Excellence for its holistic curriculum fostering academic and shaping bright futures. Meanwhile, nurse Yankuba Jabbi moved attendees as he accepted the Health Servant of the Year award, recognized for his embodiment of compassion and service.

The ceremony’s grandeur was amplified by performances from Senegalese icon Youssou N’Dour, Gambian kora maestro Jaliba Kuyateh, and Afro-soul star ST, who delivered a stirring tribute to the honourees. Attendees described the evening as a “powerful reminder of the Heroes Award’s potential,” blending cultural pride with global ambition.

As the Heroes Awards 5.0 concluded, the message was clear: from the football pitch to farmlands, classrooms, and clinics, The Gambia’s champions are redefining excellence—and inspiring a continent.

MY PCOS JOURNEY TO MOTHERHOOD

In many African homes, conversations about infertility and reproductive health remain shrouded in silence—yet the struggle is painfully real for so many women.

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About the Book

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