The Gambia Press Union on Monday launched a document aimed at promoting the advocacy for an enabling legal environment for freedom of expression and that of the press.

The 20-page document titled, ‘Review of Gambia Media Laws’ places emphasis on the media laws as spelt out in the 1997 constitution, The Gambia’s obligation under international law and the way forward.

Speaking at the launch of the document on Monday, the President of the Gambia Press Union Sheriff Bojang Jnr said media practitioners in the country should not be complacent.

“Still, we have some laws that we still fight, that we will always fight for them to be repealed from our law books and this is the period when we need all stakeholders; we need out colleagues; we need our partners to make sure that there is a conducive atmosphere in the country for journalists to operate,” Bojang said.

“When we think of the fight against these laws we’re not only thinking of this government, we’re thinking of what might come tomorrow. When this government leaves who knows, maybe we’ll have another Jammeh regime in another form and then they are justified to use such laws to suppress dissent and freedom of expression.”

According to Bojang, Gambian journalists through the Gambia Press Union are not going to be combative in an effort to make the legal media environment more conducive.

He said: “We want to discuss this with the government and all stakeholders maturely, in the interest of the country, in the interest of the progress of this country and in the interest of what we all see as transition.”

The Minister of Information and Communication Infrastructure, Ebrima Sillah, speaking through the permanent secretary at his ministry said the document strategic in the sense that it “is intended to help enhance the right to freedom of speech and expression including the freedom of the press.”

“Press freedom and development have a direct correlation. I wish to assure you of my ministry resolve to support and partner with the GPU and all stakeholders in the quest for an enabling legal environment for freedom of expression and of the press,” he said.

Fatoumatta Bah Barrow on Monday travelled to Mandinari to meet Nogoi Njie, a staunch supporter of the United Democratic Party.

The First Lady’s trip comes a few hours after the mayoress of Banjul Rohey Lowe visited Nogoi, a woman whose health has now become a matter of national concern.

Nogoi Njie was among a group of activists who held a protest in 2015 meant to put pressure on the government to make changes to parts of the law on elections in The Gambia. They were arrested and allegedly tortured. The leader of the protest, Solo Sandeng, died while still in custody.

Nogoi’s plight garnered national attention at the weekend after an audio message on WhatsApp – a private messaging system – where she was heard pleading for help. And it has emerged on Monday that the President’s wife was disturbed after hearing the un-well woman narrate her ordeal.

According to staff the Office of the First Lady, Mrs Bah-Barrow was disturbed after hearing Nogoi narrate her ordeal.

The Fatu Network understands the First Lady visited Nogoi to see how she could help her regain her health. It has also emerged Mrs Bah-Barrow went through Nogoi’s medical records to know what kind of treatment was recommended her.

She later visited The Mandinari Women’s Garden where she was accompained by Nogoi Njie.

Mayoress of Banjul Rohey Malick Lowe on Monday visited Nogoi Njie, one of at least three women who took part in a fatal protest in 2015.

On 14 April 2015, some members of the United Democratic Party including Nogoi Njie held a protest in the Westfield area demanding changes to the electoral law. The protestors, led by the now-dead Solo Sandeng, were quickly rounded up after armed security personnel billeted on them.

Nogoi Njie has in various times since her release from custody in 2015 said she was held incommunicado and tortured. And in new audio message, Nogoi was heard pleading for help with regard to her poor health.

However, her pleads haven’t gone unnoticed as Gambians have now taken to the social media to call on the government in general and the United Democratic Party in particular to come to Nogoi’s aid.

Succed CK Saidy commented on Facebook: “[It’s] a very sad encounter, but honestly Barrow and Darboe can’t say that they aren’t aware of these disasters on Nogoy and co. If some of the top government officials don’t know but from the UDP know exactly what has and what happening to these people who sacrificed their lives, family and property for Gambians to enjoy democracy today.”

Fadera Dembajang said: “Adama Barrow, how can you forget Nogoi Njie and others??? Lawyer Darboe and Fatoumatta Jawara, MP, Talinding, am crying your names out why, why and why? Call on all UDP fans to create go fund me let us help them to get their health back. Am disappointed and cannot believe [this].”

Cherno Jobe said: “I hope the government does everything possible to help her and all the victims or their families who currently need help.”

Saikou Ceesay said: “Pls Mr President, help this Lady [go] for overseas treatment. If not, there will be no progressive [sic] for you and your Government.”

Meanwhile, it has emerged on Monday that the mayoress of Banjul, Rohey Lowe, during her visit to Nogoi Njie at her residence in Mandinari gave the un-well woman an undisclosed amount of money to help her in her fight to get her health back.

Minister of Justice Aboubacarr Tambadou has said that his comments on the publication of false news were taken out of context.

Mr Tambadou on October 9 told journalists at a press conference in Banjul that the law on the publication of false news was still in place and that anyone found wanting of spreading false news will be prosecuted. The comments quickly generated concern from among the citizenry.

Reacting to the concerns on Monday, the Justice Minister stated that the pronouncement that the country still has applicable laws to deter what he describes as ‘irresponsible conduct’ was meant to serve as a reminder to those who are determined to deliberately spread lies “for personal agendas at the expense of our fragile peace and stability.”

“The comments should have been seen in that context alone. It was not a threat against anyone and certainly not against the media that has contributed so much to bringing about this change in our country and will continue to play a huge role in our democratization process,” he said.

The Gambian constitution has in it a piece of legislation that punishes anyone who publishes or broadcasts any statement or report that is false. The law was greatly relied on by the immediate past government to keep back the media.

The Justice Minister said while the concerns are genuine in respect of the potential application of the law on the publication of false news, the constitutional right to freedom of expression and the media is not under any form of threat in the New Gambia.

“The fact that the law against the publication of false news pursuant to Section 181 (A) of the Criminal Code while still remaining valid has not been used against anyone in this country since the change of government. [This] indicates that the application of the law is reserved for only the most serious cases as the provision of the law itself envisages by introducing the element of materiality in the falsity of the information or news,” he said.

The Gambia government has assured members of the media that it remains committed to the idea of a free media environment.

“The promotion of an enabling legal environment for freedom of expression and the permissive political environment for the media to operate in a free and safe environment has been a priority objective of the new government of The Gambia,” Minister of Justice, Aboubacarr Tambadou, said Monday during the launch of a new document on media laws in the country held at Djembe Beach Hotel in Kololi.

Gambian journalists through the Gambia Press Union have been engaging the government of President Adama Barrow in an effort to ensuring that the freedom guaranteed media practitioners in the discharge of their constitutional responsibility is not tampered with.

And according to the Minister Tambadou, the government will continue to work with the “GPU and all stakeholders to ensure that we open up the democratic space for the full and unfettered enjoyment of the right to freedom of expression and for the media to operate in a free and safe environment.”

He said: “Our commitment remains unwavering and we will make every effort to facilitate the exercise of these rights in the New Gambia. Our actions have so far demonstrated this commitment and we are determined to improve on this for a more democratic and progressive Gambia.

“But we will also like to reiterate that the exercise of these rights must be done in a responsible manner and without interfering with the rights of others. It is the government’s obligation to uphold this balance and we must shy away from it.”

State House, Banjul, 28^thOctober 2018

His Excellency, President Adama Barrow has promised to restore the dignity, independence and powers of the Office of the District Chief in The Gambia. Speaking at the State House during a meeting with chiefs from across the country on Saturday, the President said the glorious days when the institution of chieftaincy commanded respect and honour diminished during the former regime due to abysmal disregard and derision from the leadership.

“It was an important thing to be Chief of district in The Gambia. It was very honourable and royal. My government appreciates your roles and we do not wish to interfere with your traditional functions,” President Barrow said after hearing ten representatives spoke on behalf of the visiting delegation.

He added that the former regime reduced the important roles of district authorities to political pawns, and made them objects of contemptuous ridicule by arresting, firing and humiliating chiefs. “You are important instruments of local government administration that can support my government to filter down development to the grassroots,” the President added, stressing that local government administration is integral to the ongoing reform processes.

“My government’s mission is to institute reforms in how this country is government and lay foundations for the future of democracy in this country. I am working hard to leave a legacy that would enable me to stay in this country after my presidency. I would not give any cause to institute another inquiry for my conduct while in office”.

The meeting, which took place at the request of the local authorities, was called to discuss with the President challenging issues they face in the execution of their functions. They decried a number of constraints that hamper their work: mobility, delay in receiving their pay, lack of housing for their tribunals, and access agricultural machinery.

While explaining that they use agriculture to support their roles and activities at district levels, all the speakers were unanimous in thanking the President for drastically subsidizing the cost of fertilizer, which they described as a big relief for the farmer folks.

Minister of Local Government and Regional Administration, Mr. Musa Drammeh, welcomed the Chiefs to the State House and urged them to collaborate with government in delivering the goals of National Development Plan (NDP). Minister Drammeh said his office is aware of some of the difficulties the chiefs are going through, while promising that government is working on mechanisms to strengthen their work.

He also urged them to resort to alternative dispute resolution measures in settling conflicts at community levels. Mr. Drammeh re-echoed the pledge made by the President that their offices would be empowered to make the Chiefs effective in executing their functions.

Gambia’s Political M.O. very disappointed seeing Hon Ousainou Darboe with MA Bah posing. Chaatans! What a blow. Wasn’t this the same MA Bah that traumatized Gambians during Impasse? I always thought UDP persevered because of their members’ loyalty. This though is a slap to all the victims lost and another hope dasher. I never expected such from Darboe. You can forgive Bah but the rest of Gambians especially victims don’t have to see such. Lost beaucoup points from with this!

First Suku Singhateh and now this. We are stagnant in many ways because of such moves. Why the haste to consolidate? This fight of who is biggest is truly neglecting Mama Gambia! Quantity over quality won’t deliver us from our dire Economic State. Do we actually care about what will move the country forward or are you all worried about how many yellow shirts can litter our streets during campaign?! Shoot we now see why Barrow is at a haste to overtake his once home crew.

OJ was chastised for saying he “ forgave Jammeh”. Ah sunge uncle be nak? Will he get a pass because we are in “reconciliation” mode? The double standards though? God please ignore Gambians and their behaviors while moving us from developing to developed. Otherwise sor nyu kor jappeh ye rek we will wallow and die in stagnancy. The political jockeying seems to have no bounds while victims/survivors are scarred for eternity

Such moves won’t be seen by PDOIS morm. Give kudos where due teh ham neh this life is too short. What’s good for the goose is good for the gander. No one will take away your oxygen for being honest! The Almighty is the main owner of oxygen!

Wa Salaam, Namaste, Shalom ??

Alagi Yorro Jallow

The signposts from the Gambia’s electoral politics. Passion, emotion and euphoria are necessary but NOT enough conditions – a trophy for regime displacement. There must be a compelling philosophy, an ideography and a choreography; against a dictator – Political Empowerment must be a top agenda: Listen! to Professor Mahmood Mamdani: “you must practice an inclusive politics with respect to others”. Because? “Sub-Saharan societies are so torn apart by tribalism that none can achieve the degree of unity to confront political power successfully”

The Gambian people must have a democracy that delivers progress to their people. It is time for a radical change rather than cosmetic changes in their political and electoral system, why not reform thoroughly and cleanse the electoral processes? The surrender to the authority of one individual, as in the presidential system, is dangerous for democracy.

 The over-centralization of power in one individual is something they must guard against. Those who argue in favor of a presidential system often state that the safeguards and checks are in place: that a powerful President can be stalled by a powerful legislature. But if the legislature is dominated by the same party to which the President belongs, a charismatic President or a “strong President” may prevent any move from the legislature. On the other hand, if the legislature is dominated by a party opposed to the President’s party and decides to checkmate him, it could lead to a stalemate in governance because both the President and the legislature would have democratic legitimacy.

 The Gambia’s presidential system is a perversity. Its failure in system: to vote for a legislature to form a dictatorship of the majority. It has created a unique breed of legislator, an unelected Speaker presiding over elected members largely unqualified to legislate with excessive powers, who has sought parliamentary leadership on a whim and caprices of a mean-spirited President only to wield excessive power. There is no genuine separation of powers: the legislature cannot truly hold the executive accountable since the government wields the majority in the House. The presidential system does not permit the existence of a legislature distinct from the executive, applying its collective mind freely to the nation’s laws.

A diverse country like the Gambia cannot function without consensus-building. This “winner takes it all” approach, which is a necessary consequence of the presidential system, is likely to lead to a situation where the views of an individual can ride roughshod over the interests of different segments. Their system has also produced coalition government which have been obliged to focus more on politics than on policy or performance. It has forced government to concentrate less on governing than on staying in office and obliged them to cater to the lowest common denominator of their coalitions, since withdrawal of support can bring governments down. The presidential system has distorted the preferences of an electorate that knows which individuals it wants but not necessarily which political party best delivers on policies.

On the other hand, there are ideas going around about reforming the electoral processes to make democracy more robust. From limiting expenditure of political parties and deciding the ceiling on the expenditure, to holding simultaneous elections, declaring the results for a combination of booths instead of constituencies — I think it is advisable to debate this and ensure that the gaping loopholes in the electoral processes are speedily plugged. Tobe continued Part 8

By Alieu Ceesay, back from TEF forum in Lagos

Mr. Tony Elumelu, Founder of Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) has reiterated his commitment to championing Africa’s economic development by supporting and training a new generation of entrepreneurs, whose successes can transform the continent, delivering opportunity, job creation and social impact. ‘Africa’s future is in African hands’ he stated.
The Nigerian Billionaire was speaking at the 4th Africa’s largest entrepreneurship forum in Lagos, Nigeria last Thursday.

“Our Foundation and its unique approach of training, mentoring and funding has proven that entrepreneurship is the key to unlocking economic transformation of our continent. I believe so strongly that success can be democratized and if we can match ambition to opportunities, this extraordinary generation can achieve anything,” said Tony Elumelu.

“With TEFConnect, we have created a tool, that provides a digital platform to host ideas, champion success and demonstrate Africans ability to use the most advanced technologies to take charge of their economic destinies.”

His Excellency, President Nana Akudo-Addo of Ghana who joined the forum underlined the importance of galvanizing the broad entrepreneurship eco-system, calling on public sector representatives to encourage, support and replicate the work of the Tony Elumelu Foundation in their respective regions.

Speaking on the importance of putting the right policies in place, President Nana Akufo-Addo said:

“Nothing is changed or developed on its own. People must get up, speak, have discussions and change the dialogue”.

5,000 African entrepreneurs, private and public sector leaders and the broader entrepreneurship ecosystem convened in Lagos for the annual Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Forum. The event which is the largest gathering of African entrepreneurs in the world, is a unique opportunity for bringing together young business talent, creating dynamic networks and transmitting the message to policymakers that a vibrant and responsible private sector will deliver economic transformation.

Now in its fourth year, the Forum marked the graduation of the 2018 cohort of the TEF Entrepreneurship Programme, following a rigorous nine-month period of training, mentorship and funding, which brought the total number of beneficiaries of the Programme to 4,470, with over 300,000 applications received to date.

One of the highlights of this year’s event was the unveiling of TEFConnect, a revolutionary digital community that brings together the complete entrepreneurshipecosystem across Africa and beyond, including entrepreneurs, investors and the broader business community on one platform, connecting them digitally with three vital elements for success – capital, market and business tools. Africa is riding a wave of rapid technological driven change in payment systems, education, agriculture and infrastructure and TEFConnect fulfills a critical role in linking entrepreneurs across the continent.

Commencing with a series of goodwill messages from key stakeholders in the investment, governmental and development communities, the event featured a pitching competition, panel discussions, as well as a vibrant interactive session between His Excellency, President Nana Akufo-Addo and the entrepreneurs, moderated by TEF Founder, Tony O. Elumelu. It also featured a session on the role of the private sector in the economic development of Africa with Dr. Awele Elumelu, TEF Trustee, Founder, Avon Medical and Gavi Champion for Immunisation in Africa; moderated by CNNMoney Africa Correspondent, Eleni Giokos. Parminder Vir, CEO, Tony Elumelu Foundation also unveiled the TEF Impact Documentary, featuring success stories of the Tony Elumeluu Entrepreneurs.

Since its inception, the Tony Elumelu Foundation has empowered African entrepreneurs across the continent with a $5,000 non-refundable seed grant.

The Forum was attended by key players in the private and public sector including Governor, Kebbi State, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu; Governor of Bauchi State, Alhaji Mohammed Abdulahi Abubakar; President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Nike Akande; Former Governor, Cross River State, HE Donald Duke and Former Governor of Anambra State, HE Peter Obi, among others.

Kotu, Futurelec Building – 29th October, 2018

As part of its public consultation process ahead of the drafting of the new Gambian constitution, the Constitutional Review Commission (CRC) began a national school tour to sensitize students about its mandate and also hear their submissions on the review process. The Commission held the maiden edition of the ‘meet the students tour’ at Nusrat Senior Secondary School in Bundung on Saturday 27th October 2018 and many other schools will be subsequently visited to encourage and engage student participation in the constitution making process.

Welcoming the CRC delegation at Nusrat, the Principal, Karamo S. Bojang, commended the Commission for its review methodology of reaching out to the public before drafting the constitution. . “This time, the review process is different. Everybody must participate to build a new constitution that is inclusive,” Bojang said whileurging students to fully participate in the process and have their views heard.

The Executive Secretary of the CRC, Omar Ousman Jobe, said the Commission has recognized that the majority of senior school students will be eligible to vote in the country’s next electoral cycle. “It is very critical at this stage that we include students and these emerging voter demographic into the constitutional review dialogue for them to know and understand the issues in the constitution in order to make enlightened and informed choices,” Jobe noted

“This is the time to be part of the conversation so that you will see yourself in the new constitution,” the CRC secretary told students. Whilst emphasising the importance of national consensus in the review process, Mr. Jobe said the Commission is committed to drafting a sustainable constitution that will endure the test of time and the needs of national aspirations.

In his presentation, Commissioner Lamin S. Camara, said the Constitutional Review Commission (CRC) is established by an Act of the National Assembly to review the current Constitution and draft a new constitution that reflects the wishes and aspirations of the Gambian people. “The Act has certain provisions that we need to comply with. One of them is that we need to seek the opinion of Gambians. You (students) are a fundamental part of this country and your input in the next constitution is an inevitable requisite,” Commissioner Camara remarked.

He said a constitution is a set of rules and regulations that citizens of a country have subscribed to and have pledged to be governed by. In executing its mandate, Commissioner Camara said the CRC is required to engage and have regard for national values and ethos. He added the Commission will safeguard and promote, amongst others, The Gambia’s Republican systems of governance, including democratic values and respect for and promotion of the rule of law and fundamental rights and freedoms. While enjoining students at the meeting to inform others about the CRC and encourage participation, Commissioner Camara advised senior schools to consider offering Constitutional Law as a subject.

Underscoring the importance of inclusivity in the making of the new charter of laws, Commissioner Fatoumatta Jallow said the constitutional review process has social, economic and cultural dimensions. She expressed delight that students are passionate about the drafting of the new constitution. Commissioner Jallow added that student interest should not only stop at the constitutional review process but the country’s governance in general.

Speaking on behalf of the students, Fatoumatta Fatty, President of Nusrat History and Government club said they have learnt a lot about the constitution and its importance and assured that efforts will be made as students to inspire participation and student engagement in the constitution making process. Fatty lauded the CRC for holding its first outreach program at the school. Issues submitted by the students include presidential term limit, free university education, reduction of retirement age, strict measures to fight corruption, absolute majority in elections, independence and power of the legislature, right to life, and the nationality of court judges.

The CRC’s Head of Media and Communication Sainey MK Marenah reminded students that they are a core entity and the future drivers of the electoral process and so its critical to for them to try to understand and engage with the constitutional review undertaking as the basis of the Gambia’s new dispensation.

The CRC ‘Meet the students tour’ continues with the first leg targeting senior schools across the metropolis.

In Bakau, if it wasn’t one thing, then it’s another, and sometimes it was wrestling (aka borey). They would fence the Bantaba right in the heart of Bakau Dingko kono with a sakett, and voila, you have your arena. The Bantaba was located at an intersection that had a big tree with huge surface roots, and on normal days, you would find people sitting on the surface roots using them as benches – they were that huge. The space was wide enough to temporarily fence a section of it with sakett, and still allow room for passing traffic and pedestrians. The sand at the Bantaba was soft like tissue and perfect for wrestling.

On such days, pure normalcy would drift into excitement, and later lapses into festiveness as the showdown draws near. Tickets were sold at the gate with the usual haycho, Gambian style. The wrestlers would dance to the drum rhythm of the beat of their respective cultures as they gear up to lock horns. The wrestling matches where mainly between the Fulas and the Jolas, and occasionally a couple of Balantas. The teams would sit across from each other, and the Balantas usually sat with the Fulas.

The wrestlers (mborrs) came in different weight classes, but for some reason, the bigger mborrs tend to have more juju. However, the smaller mborrs were more exciting to watch because their matches were fast a furious – with less juju! There were some mborrs who would wrestle each other most of the time and the audience liked to see them pair, but sometimes it was hard to tell who was going to be locking horns with whom, until you see them dancing their way to the center of the arena. They would then start performing their various rituals and humbal tuti preceding to their showdown.

The organizers had a free entrance policy for kids, provided they brought a bucket of water for the mborrs to rinse themselves off after their tussle. I believe this was the policy in other arenas as well. So on days when I couldn’t afford the fare, I would grab a sewo plastic from home, jarr yoni ganaw, and fill it up at the pompeh mbeda at the junction of Jallow Kunda ak Secka Kunda. From there, I only had roughly seventy to a hundred meters to walk to the Bantaba arena. Once in, I would try to sit as close as possible to where the buckets of water were placed because the proximity was crucial, if you wanted to keep an eye on your bucket and away from sacha kat yee – I had to return it home.

Once the action started, I became focused and attentive, learning the tricks – tricks like galgal fayti, lippi, busulu jalang, worr ndombo, kalang, mbass, ak ennu baychi. One of my favorite mborrs was called Borbor Dinding (I am convinced he was a Balanta), and he looked more like a sasuman than a mborr. He was slender, but infinitely skilled. His style awkward, but effective. He would quickly turn around and have his opponent behind him, which is generally considered a compromising position, but not for Borbor Dinding. That was his strength and part of his game plan. He would then let his opponents struggle to bring him down before swiftly flipping the script on them and bringing them down instead. That was his signature move, and it always worked. Rumor also had it that he used to moonlight as a Mamapara tam. Hamnga rumor time mi ndo rek!

As always, as soon as the event ended, it was time for the “mbojo mbojo” mborrs like myself to enter the fray, size up each other, and practice our moves. I was good at everything but ennu baychi, my skinny frame wouldn’t allow me. Nonetheless, my victories there were many, and it was always fun. We also used to borey at school, during break time or after studies in the evening, and our matches can be so random sometimes too. We could be walking and having a conversation, and all of a sudden have the urge to lock horns. We were some unpredictable wrestlers for sure.

I remember walking with a classmate/friend (name withheld, but he might be reading this piece) after studies one evening and found a nice patch of fine sand diggi Bakau School, so we decided to borey. We gently sat our books on the side and began to tussle. I went in for a quick lippi followed by a busulu jalang with him landing on his head. There was radio silence for a moment before he started moaning and groaning, then said in a very soft voice “woyayoye wonanaa suma puruhh bi.” At first I thought he was joking, but when he couldn’t move, I got scared. For a swift second, I believed I had committed murder! Soon after, to my relief, he quickly recovered and we were on our merry way home.

I was also once challenged, after a string of wins during break time under the big tree at Bakau School by an older kid in primary six (name withheld, but he is in Norway now). I believe I was in primary four then. I went for the mbass move on that occasion, and he was down in a jiffy. Once everyone started laughing, he wanted to turn it into a fight, rek maneh sirr daw! I have since retired from wrestling after I left Bakau School, but if you would like to challenge me, you can rewind the hands of time and meet me at the Bakau Bantaba or diggi Bakau School. Ironically, though, I never consulted “Marabout Janneh” for my wrestling, I relied purely on skill and agility. Barra sewna y wenge la. Rendeng! When Gambia was nice.

By Alieu Ceesay in Lagos, Nigeria

Momarr Mass Taal, Founder and Managing Director of Tropingo Foods- a food processing company’s focused on dried fruit and nut exports has won an award at the 2018 Africa’s largest entrepreneurship forum in Lagos.

Momarr Mass Taal is a Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneur and his success story is an exceptional one considering how far his company has come from the $5000 Tony Elumelu seed fund in 2015.

Taal was presented with certificate of awards together with five other entrepreneurs for the enviable success.

The surprising thing about Momarr’s story is although he never intended to go into agribusiness from the start as he wanted to be a diplomat like his father.

At a very tender age of 18, Momarr Mass Taal had a clothing line – Malyka Clothing which was based in Canada. But on returning to The Gambia after his University degree, he saw a gap and felt the need to fill it; hence, Tropingo Foods.

In an interview, Momarr Mass Taal, said the award is something that every Gambian should be proud of.

“I dedicate this award to all Gambians.”

While urging the Government of The Gambia to empower the entrepreneurs, Taal encourage the youth to always believe in themselves and go after what they want.

As part of the first cohort of the TEF Programme in 2015, Taal was invited by the organisers in 2016 as an alumni to share with over 1000 African entrepreneurs his success story and challenges.

Meanwhile, three of the five selected entrepreneurs from The Gambia for 2918- Banky O.C Njie of Fintech, Chan Mendy, fashion entrepreneur and Sarah Bintou Dibbasey, who is into bakery are also among those attending the forum.

The trio are hoping that their entrepreneurship aspirations will be actualised with the support of the Foundation. They are hoping to interest and connect their peers from other countries.

Meanwhile, President Nana Akuffo Addo is also in Lagos to join over 5,000 young African entrepreneurs drawn from across the continent.

These young entrepreneurs, most of who are into agriculture are funded, trained and mentored by the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), Africa’s leading entrepreneurship-focused philanthropic organisation.

Established in 2010 and launched in 2015, this year’s forum just like the previous ones gather to celebrate Africa entrepreneurs that are impacting positively in their different countries.

This year, 1460 entrepreneurs are graduated by the Foundation- 41% women- and will receive seed capital to transform their ideas and the African continent.

The event is a unique opportunity to generate ideas, forge networks and bring policymakers and the private sector together, in a spirit of robust debate and interaction.

In welcoming the entrepreneurs to the Forum, TEF CEO, Parminder Vir OBE said, in its 4th year, TEF Entrepreneurship Programme has empowered 4,460 entrepreneurs with a total investment of USD20million; 4,000 funded directly by the Foundation and 460 have been funded by partners.

In a short statement, the Group Director of Marketing and Communications of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, Madam Bola Atta said: “Together we can make a difference to our continent”.

Also in attendance are, the Founder and Chairman of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Mr Tony Elumelu. Mr. Peter Obi, vice presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Executive Governors-A. Bagudu and Mohammed Abubakar of Kebbi and Bauchi.

The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme is a 10-year, $100 million commitment to identify, train, mentor, and fund 10,000 entrepreneurs.

Its goal is to invest in businesses that will generate at least 1,000,000 new jobs and contribute at least $10 billion in new annual revenues across Africa.

Part 6:  Our Presidential System Is A Perversity:

 This presidential system will kill us:

 Alagi Yorro Jallow

The Gambia is a country of bestriding giants and cowering ants. That poverty and unemployment of the youth folks is killing Gambian children of anyone else. This is the country our leaders gave us since independence and has since been sustained by former president Jammeh’s autocratic rule and the kleptocratic rule of President Barrow. The Gambia: It is a country of winner takes all in everything. A country of extremes in riches and poverty; a nation of extremes in power and powerlessness. A cold-blooded nation of the well-fed not knowing that anyone else lacks.

Whether under autocracy or in Kleptocratic rule, the architecture of the Republic of the Gambia has remained largely exclusionary and, even, reactionary. Those who reign rule for themselves and themselves alone. The system which created it further waters it with torrents of impunity. The system suffocates patriotism and elevates triumphal, parochial sentiments. It has unapologetically been serving the interest of, only, the (economic and political) landlords of the moment. And, because it does not care who dies or who is dying, there is perpetual tension in the land.

If it was like that with the founding fathers of this country, would we be looking back at their era with so much nostalgia today? If that wasn’t what birthed this country, why do we think we can grow on it?

We have seen the millions in the corruption scandals and in the other corruption scandals unfolding across the country, and we all continue to shout in pretentious shock. We all know the system we run drinks money and monies were spent provided by the donor community. We also know the kind of money this system demands are not what can be legitimately earned. The system constructs corruptions everywhere, including in the sanctimonious previous regimes. If Adama Barrow is opened too, are we sure of how many millions of us would faint in utter shock? We cannot blame the politicians. We should blame the political system that made Adama Barrow to campaign and spend money in Mankamang Kunda. We should condemn the system that compelled Yahya Jammeh to developed Kanilai at the expense of the voters. You cannot run under this presidential system and say you want to successfully fight corruption. It will be a contradiction, an act of hypocrisy.

It is the same system that makes presidents trust and appoint key government officials from only their places of birth. Because presidentialism is a “Mansayaa or Burr” system, presidents can lock out any part of the country from the power center and rationalize it. He cannot be safely questioned by anyone on the actions and inactions of his presidency. And no matter the depth of the low they sink in governance, they sit tight. British Prime Minister, David Cameron, resigned because he lost the Brexit vote — an ordinary referendum. Why is it that we have not had any leader in the Gambia offering to quit because they lost the economic power to meet their obligations to their people? Why is it that when we elect people under our presidential system, they start campaigning for the next election almost immediately? Why is it that the forces of the Gambia’s politics are so remote from the people and do not appear to know or appreciate the extent of the people’s suffering everywhere?

We have transited from a “conservative” party to a “progressive” party. That appears to have been the only thing that has changed in the ecology of governance in this country. Those whose populist mantra in the years of struggle was reform of the structure of the country have since pressed the mute button the moment they hopped on the high horse of power.

Can we survive this money-sucking presidential system which feeds only the powerful? The clear way out is a fundamental change in the way we structure and run our country. The presidential system that gives all resources to persons in power can only lead to where it has led us. It has not worked for the ordinary person and will never work.

Fela sang about “suffering and smiling.” That was decades ago. Today, the town is no longer smiling. Life frowns upon the people’s very existence. At every level of government, what has been on the burner is pure politics. But it is not strictly the problem of the persons running the system. It is a deeper, systemic problem. If we change our ruling parties a million times, we will likely get the same results. This presidential system is unworkable for us and it is not working for us. It kills and so must yield for something less expensive, more accountable, more flexible.

Musa Bah

Synopses of Part One:In the village of Nenemaaje, in the hinterland of Moofingduu, the Alkaaloo Keejang Meeta was forcefully ousted by Keejaw Warata and was himself later replaced – through the casting of stones – by Suntukung Koyoo. Suntukung Koyo had a lot of problems as many villagers who destroyed the rule of Keejaw Warata remained in his inner circle. They plotted and hatched different plans to defenestrate him. He started scheming also to ensure that he remained in the seat of the Alkalooship. That is what brought about his giving away – to selected members of the Council – bags of cowries containing ten thousand each.

The interactable problem for Suntukung Koyo though was more than just the issue of succession. He had his plate full (sometimes literally) as his wife, Suuta Lampoo – the French will refer to such a woman as famme fatale – had her eyes set on ever remaining the Premierre Dame of the village.

Thus, she started a Teery Kafoo in which she invited people from different parts of the world to contribute money or whatever they could so that she would be able to help the less privileged people in the village, especially women and children.

It was for such reason that from the farthest part of the world – where very short and smart people lived – a company called Ceebiya deposited close to thirty-five million cowries into the accounts of Suuta Lampoo’s Teery Kafoo.

Suuta Lampoo and her aunt withdrew the cowries, but it disappeared a little while later. Everyone in the village started asking about that amount. The criers said that as she got the cowries in the name of helping the villagers, it was unfair for her to just keep quiet about it. They demanded that she explain where the cowries went to. There was a lot of noise, but she remained tight-lipped about it.

To make matters worse, one of Suntukung’s courtiers – the town crier – came out to say that cowries were meant to buy air-tickets for Suntukung Koyo to go and attend a meeting at the far away country of the short and smart people. Perhaps, they surmised, he could gain some wisdom from them to bring home. But the criers were not satisfied with that explanation. For them, the Village had a lot of accounts all under the Alakalooship of Suntukung and thus no one needed to put any amount of cowries in the accounts of Suuta Lampoo. The questions kept coming, but no answer from the house of the Alkaloo.

A time came when the people from the different Kaabiloos pressured their representatives in the Council of Elders to raise questions- on their behalf about all the anomalies going on in the Alkalooship of Suntukung Koyo. They said that the representatives had been given pickup trucks by Suntukung Koyo, but they did not ask him where the pickups came from. This was against the Rule Book set here by the ancestors.

They said that Suntukung had also given a select few among them bags of cowries but did not say why or from where the cowries emanated. Now that his wife, famme fatale, had gone away with thirty-five million cowries, it is time for them to raise questions.

The Council of Elders made some noise as to what is happening in the village. The criers welcomed it only for some of the representatives to be invited to the Alkaloo’s house and everything went eerily quiet again. What must they have been told by the Alkaloo for them to go mute as if the issue has become chthonic?

The fear of many was that Sunukung Koyo was becoming exactly like Kaajaw Waraata, or very close to him. It seemed as if they had the same teacher, read from the same book. One thing about village life though, everyone is related to the other. What affects one affects all. You know that saying, ‘In Moofingdoo, it takes a whole village to raise a child,’ it is in the same way that it takes a whole village to punish a wayward child.

Suntukung Koyo and his Council of Elders should keep that in mind

The Constitutional Review Commission (CRC) in partnership with National Council for Civic Education (NCCE) on Thursday 25th October 2018 started a civic education tour to prepare the regional communities and set the ground for the public consultations to follow. The first meetings were held in North Bank Region (NBR) settlements of Fass Njaga Choi, Essau, Pakau Njogu and Jurunku.

In his welcoming remark, Alhagie Wally Joof, Alkalo of Fass Njaga Choi expressed delight over the visit. He assured the tour delegates of his community’s readiness to participate in what he described as a ‘history making venture.’

Alhagie Sering Fye, the Chairman of National Council for Civic Education, said the purpose of the campaign is to inform communities on specific dates and venues the CRC will hold its public consultations. He added that the tour will ensure effective citizen participation in the constitutional review process.

“We want to see a constitution that would be people-centered. This process requires your participation and ideas in areas that are crucial to you as a community,” NCCE boss told the gathering in Fass Njaga Choi.

Speaking during the convergence, the CRC Civic Education officer, Saffiatou Savage-Sidibeh, said the Commission’s principal mandate is to review and analyze the 1997 constitution, draft a new constitution and a prepare a report to that effect. She pointed out that a constitution entails the fundamental laws of a country.

She said: “The participation of the communities is crucial in the constitution building process. CRC is obliged to consult you as a community and the content of the final draft of the constitution depends greatly on the feedback generated from you people.”

Mr. Ansumana Yabou, NCCE Civic Education Officer, told participants that their inclusion and participation is very crucial in drafting of the constitution process. He informed that the ‘Issues Document’ on circulation captured areas such as citizenship, fundamental rights and freedoms, legislature, judiciary, elections, among other sectors.

In a similar but separate development, the Constitutional Review Commission wishes to notify the general public that its direct public consultations originally scheduled to commence on Monday, 29^thOctober, 2018, have now been postponed. The Commission will issue another press release in the coming week to advise precisely when the postponed public consultations will commence.

The Constitutional Review Commission was established by the Constitutional Review Commission Act of 2017 to review and analyze the 1997 Constitution, draft a new constitution for the Republic of The Gambia and prepare a report in relation to the new constitution.

For more information, please contact the CRC Communications Unit on 3420440 / 2484149.

Sainey M. K. Marenah

Head of Communications

Constitutional Review Commission (CRC)

Email: [email protected]

October 24, 2018

CRC Set to Commence Public Consultations on Monday

Kotu, The Gambia- The Constitutional Review Commissions (CRC) is set to commence its public consultations in the North Bank Region from Monday, 29th October and the public consultation is expected to last in June 2019.

Briefing journalists at a news conference held at CRC secretariat in Kotu on Wednesday, the CRC Chairman, Justice Cherno Sulayman Jallow, said the in-country public consultations will be done in phases at district and ward levels with a view to engaging the populations and thus, make the process as inclusive and participatory as possible.

The public consultations, he added, will involve, among others, inviting written contributions, responses to questionnaires, focused and thematic reviews, face-to-face dialogue and contributions through the CRC website which is under construction.

The public consultative process would also incorporate the views and aspirations of Gambians living in the Diaspora and it will cover some countries in Africa, Europe, Middle East, some states in the United States of America as well as Canada.

“As a safeguard and with the objective of ensuring that all Gambians and each community has the opportunity to express opinion on the constitution-making process, we are considering providing a separate platform whereby persons and communities that feel that their views may not have been properly or adequately represented at the public consultations to seek special audience with the CRC and we will do our best to accommodate them,” he assured.

The chairman announced that the Commission and National Council for Civic Education (NCCE) will start a civic education tour on Wednesday, 24th October, to prepare the regional communities and set the ground and the tone for the public consultations to follow.

Justice Jallow said the Commission has deployed 12 regional coordinators to their respective regions to commence their regional work and prepare the ground for the CRC-NCCE civic education tour and the CRC public consultations.

The chairman said the CRC with the cooperation of the National Council for Civic Education, embarked on a nation-wide pre-consultation tour covering all of the seven administrative regions in The Gambia as part of its strategic objective of ensuring a positive and meaningful engagement with Gambians.

The CRC has published an Issues Document as part of our engagement process with the Gambian public and other stakeholders.

Justice Jallow said the Issues Document has been designed and developed by the Commission to initiate dialogue on key constitutional matters which Gambians and other stakeholders may wish to address their minds to.

He noted: “I should point out and emphasize that the Issues Document should not be taken or viewed as constraining the thoughts of Gambians and other stakeholders as regards the issues that should be considered in developing the new Constitution for The Gambia. Rather, the Document must be viewed simply as a guide in initiating dialogue, and we welcome further thoughts not addressed in the Document.”

In addition to the Issues Document, the chairman said the CRC, partnering with International IDEA, is developing a questionnaire which will be used to carry out a survey on key issues of constitutional law.

He added that the questionnaire, a draft of which is currently reviewed and finalized, will map out in simple form issues that require positive or negative responses and, in a few areas, require only brief responses.

While seeking the public’s cooperation in facilitating responses to the questionnaire, the chairman hoped that the method will further enable the CRC to make an objective assessment of the interests and aspirations of the Gambian people towards the constitution-making process.

Speaking on challenges, Justice Jallow said securing adequate financial resources has, unfortunately, become one of the biggest challenges the Commission is currently grappling with as it endeavors to implement its Action Plan, carry out interface consultations with the Gambian public at home and abroad and run the Secretariat smoothly.

Considering the short window of eighteen months within which the CRC is to deliver on its mandate, the chairman said it is crucial that the Commission’s work is not hampered by unnecessary bureaucratic processes and procedures which have the potential to slow down the progress of the Commission’s work.

Justice Jallow reiterated that the constitutional review process is open, transparent and impartial and that the process will be guided by the principles of participation, inclusiveness, representation, transparency and national ownership.

For further information, Contact CRC Communication Unit

Sainey MK Marenah

Head of Communications

Constitutional Review Commission

Futurelec Building, Kotu

+2203420440

The Ambassador of the Republic of The Gambia to the State of Qatar, H.E Foday Malang, Monday 22^ndOctober 2018 met the Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Media Corporation.

The CEO, H.E Shaikh Abdurahman Bin Hamad Al Thani, received Ambassador Malang at his office.

The meeting availed them the opportunity to discuss media relations between the Republic of The Gambia and the State of Qatar.

They also discussed the importance of media in strengthening bilateral relations and the means of enhancing it.

His Excellency Ambassador Foday MALANG gave an overview of The Gambia’s national media and chances of possible collaboration between the Qatar Media Corporation and The Gambia.

CEO Shaikh Abdurrahman hailed the existing relations between the two brotherly nations and expressed readiness to help the media in The Gambia.

In a separate and earlier meeting, H.E. Ambassador Foday MALANG also met the Director-General of Qatar News Agency (QNA), Mr Youssef Ibrahim Al Malki in his office.

Talks during the meeting centred on media relations between the two countries, and the need to enhance them.

In each meeting, after listening to the ambassador’s overview of the Gambian national media status as presented, both Qatari media houses officials expressed delight and their readiness to explore possible areas of collaboration with The Gambia media establishments.

As “Chalo or Kobo” — the traditional Gambian delicacy — are now threatened with extinction:

Alagi Yorro Jallow

Mamudu:  I am perplexed and still amazed how farm raised tilapia (‘furro or wass’) from China manages to pass through customs and phytosanitary controls at our ports. It is just recently that the USA banned farm raised fish and shrimp imports from China due to drug residues and poor aquaculture practices like feeding salmonella laden pig and geese manure to fish.

Mamudu: How Chinese fish got past veterinary control services at the port of entry in the Gambia, then found its way into dinner tables in Bakau, Banjul, Brusubi, Pipeline and in rural Gambia is puzzling. The country’s border control officials are corrupt beyond repair. They can pass snake venom as human food if you can part with the right amount of money. If we can eat farm raised tilapia from China, despite the ongoing health concerns, then Gambia’s phytosanitary standards must be concern for the Health department.

Mamudu: The Gambia imports frozen tilapia, frozen mackerels, sardines, prawns and salmons among others imports frozen tuna, octopus, frozen whole tilapia fillets from China and lobsters caught in the, lakes and the Atlantic and Indian Ocean. The country has a large exclusive fishing zone with potential to produce tons of fish annually estimated at about billions of Dalasis. However, it is yet to optimally utilize the opportunity.

Mamudu: Fishing is the mainstay of river-side communities in Badibou, Niumi, Kiang and Jarra. It has fueled the economy and provided employment for decades, but these days overfishing, a lack of infrastructure and cheap Chinese imports have hit the industry hard. The Gambia’s fish stocks have been ailing and its main competitor are European Union and China, one of the world’s largest economies and leading fish producers. The increased demand from Gambia’s fish-hungry population means the country is relying on frozen farmed imports. The traditional tilapia delicacy leads the way in the decline in the Gambia fish population while government gives fisheries no respite.

The Gambia’s Fisheries ministry has failed to save its country’s diminishing fish stocks. Majority of Gambians depend on the fish caught off shore for their basic protein needs, but because of the river waters are becoming increasingly overfished by European trawlers. Many species, including “Chalo or Kobo” — the traditional Gambian delicacy — are now threatened with extinction.

Mamudu:  I was livid when I discovered from a restaurateur who confirmed that they were purchasing their tilapia fillets from suppliers, who were sourcing their tilapia from global markets including China. The Gambian in me couldn’t accept this scenario.  This restaurateur (name withheld) revealed that they serve approximately 5000 meals per day, fish fillets in various forms (grilled, battered and fried, curried etc.) were popular options and accounted about 10% of sales about 1200 fish meals a day. He added that “the tilapia fillets were of a specific size (approx. 225-250gms per fillet) and the customers had come to expect that size as a brand standard, deviations from the size met with disappointment and/or anger from customers”. Digging into the numbers, according to the restaurateur, one fish gives you 2 fillets. The restaurant consumed about 1200 fillets per day, which translates to about 600 tilapia fish…daily that the restaurant served.

Mamudu: Armed with the numbers. Is it possible to get suppliers that could supply the restaurant and other eateries with local tilapia fillets 1200 per day or more,365 days a year? Now the reality hit, why they couldn’t find a single local fish processor/supplier who could consistently fill this order of tilapia rather from China.

Mamudu: How can the Honorable minister of Fisheries delved into the debate of local vs import fish tilapia, logistics, infrastructure (refrigeration, roads etc.)

1. The local vs imports debate independently of building local supply chain capacity.

2. Passionate building local capacity that reacts the demands of the market.

3. Create avenues to fund local scalable fish farmers/processors then revisit the debate.

Mamudu: The Gambia government need to take the responsibility of enabling sustainable incomes and livelihoods for their citizens. The governments also need to tackle overcapacity, the destruction of fisheries, ecosystem preservation, as well as control and surveillance. In fact, a reduction of the fishing activity for some years would help restore stocks to a level enabling fishermen to catch and earn more income than they currently do, without depleting the resource in the long term