By: Mama A. Touray

Another revenue collector from the Brikama Area Council, Fatou Dampha, has confessed during the ongoing Local Government Commission of Inquiry about the 2019 audit report, which highlighted a total shortage of D33,000 in council funds.

Prior to this admission, Dampha testified that after collecting council funds, she was supposed to deposit the money into the council’s accounts. However, she informed the commission that there were instances where she fell short and did not deposit the full amount she collected.

Addressing the 2019 audit findings regarding D6,050 she had collected, the witness acknowledged collecting the amount but admitted to not depositing it into the council’s account.

Fatou added quickly, “It might be a calculation problem,” when questioned by counsel Gomez about what she meant. She explained that there were times when she calculated her collections and recorded shortages, stating, “It happened several times.”

Lead Counsel Patrick Gomez confronted the witness, saying, “You used the money for your own personal issues,” to which she replied, “Yes.”

The commission informed Collector Dampha about the council’s lodgment roll, which showed that from February 24th to March 2nd, 2022, she collected D60,000 but did not undergo auditing. In September, there was a balance of Two Hundred and Fifty Dalasi (D250), and from May 12th to May 18th, 2022, there was a collection of Twenty-Five Thousand (D25,000).

The witness was provided with the bank statements of the Brikama Area Council to verify the deposits she made in relation to her collections. While she could trace some of her deposits, in most instances, she did not deposit all her collections.

“I was not aware of these shortages,” the witness claimed.

She was then instructed to cross-check her cash book with the bank statement, after which she admitted to not depositing all the funds she had collected.

Counsel Gomez pointed out that she used to present herself before the Council’s Cashier but did not undergo auditing at the audit unit, which she acknowledged, confirming the accuracy of the information in the lodgment register.

Additionally, in February 2022, the witness deposited D50,000, but council records indicated a higher collection. The Commission observed that she was issued a receipt for D59,000 while her deposit was only D50,000 at Eco Bank.

“We understand that the receipts given to you by the cashier were fraudulent because our account checks show different amounts. You deposited less than the receipts you were given,” Chairperson Bah informed the witness.

After a moment of silence, the witness stated that she would verify the information from the office.

Furthermore, Dampha testified that she had taken a D50,000 loan from the Council in 2021 and had repaid it.

Chairperson Jainaba Bah intervened, instructing her to provide evidence of the repayment to the commission.

The witness’s cash book covering 2018 to 2022 was submitted and admitted as evidence. An additional statement from the witness dated March 21, 2024, was also tendered and accepted as evidence.

In the additional statement, the witness mentioned that she repaid the loan last week.

Fatou Dampha resides in Brikama Nyambai and joined the BAC in 2014 as a revenue collector at the Rates and Taxes Unit before being redeployed to the License Unit in 2017. Currently, she is responsible for the Nema-su area and collects revenue solely from business establishments in that area.

By Mama A. Touray

Amid the ongoing Local Governments Commission of Inquiry into financial mismanagement and corruption at the Brikama Area Council (BAC), the council’s information technology officer, Alieu Badou Jeng, testified that their IT unit is capable of monitoring revenue collectors and the amounts they have collected.

During his testimony, Jeng explained to the commission that a revenue collector is only authorized to collect revenue for a specific area. Similarly, a licensed collector may have access to information about properties or markets, but they are restricted to collecting licenses only within the area they are assigned to.

“The system will capture the name of the person, the property, the location, the date of collection, and the amount collected,” he said.

Alieu informed the commission that the collection device allows for cash payment, cheque, or bank transfer and that the devices only record information input by the revenue collectors, adding that it cannot by itself input information.

He said the dashboard shows the summary of the collections from rates, licenses, and markets.

“Any transaction that is done immediately reflects in the dashboard,” he said.

Regarding access to the dashboard, Jeng stated that the Internal Audit Unit, the Chief Executive Officer, and the IT Unit all have access and can monitor the activities of the revenue collectors.

He said he sends the Internal Audit Unit emails containing information on the collections, which is what they use to do reconciliation with the collectors.

Jeng testified that 5C supplied BAC with four digital tax collection systems in 2020 and subsequently provided an additional ninety-six. Upon inquiry about these devices, he committed to furnishing the Commission with comprehensive details about the devices and the revenue collectors.

He said 5C first did a presentation about their system and the Council decided to use it.

Regarding the operation of the devices, the witness explained that they consist of three modules: one for the market, another for licensing, and a third for property. He further stated that revenue collectors are granted access to these modules to carry out their collections.

He clarified that taxpayer information is integrated into the system, and upon collecting the revenue, the collector simply prints out a ticket and hands it to the taxpayer.

“The machine will record every transaction they conduct unlike the GTR system where the collectors would bring what they claim to have collected,” the witness said.

Regarding the security of the data system at the Brikama Area Council, the Jeng said they purchased anti-viruses last year, but they have already expired.

He mentioned that they are now in the procurement phase to acquire new ones. He noted that a draft policy was developed approximately two years ago, yet it has not been reviewed with the management of the BAC.

By: Dawda Baldeh

The Commissioner General of the Gambia Revenue Authority, Yankuba Darboe, has announced that they collected over 2 billion dalasis in March alone.

Darboe informed the press at a conference held in Banjul, where he provided updates on various aspects of the GRA’s operations.

During the conference, he addressed matters such as the contract awarded to SICPA, a Swiss Security Company, and the implementation of digital transformation initiatives.

For the year 2024, GRA has been assigned the task of collecting 19.3 billion, with an already accumulated amount of over 5 billion.

This significant achievement stems from continuous improvements, including the adoption of new technologies to enhance revenue generation.

Darboe reinforced GRA’s dedication to maximizing revenue for national development.

He also provided clarification on the subject of rental income tax and highlighted the notable progress made through internal reforms, such as the implementation of the ASYCUDA World system.

This system has effectively reduced revenue leaks and increased compliance, as failure to pay on time results in blockages.

To further streamline operations, GRA is introducing a web-based platform called I-Tax, which will facilitate online payments and allow for the transparent monitoring of vehicle movements during transit.

Moreover, the Commissioner General guided reporters through additional measures undertaken by GRA, such as the installation of CCTV cameras to monitor border activities.

To ensure accurate revenue collection at the port, GRA has established a sophisticated weighting brigade and a container detecting system.

The issue of SICPA’s involvement is clarified by Darboe, stating that a comprehensive tender process was followed, in which SICPA emerged as the winning company.

Darboe revealed that SICPA operates in two phases, wherein they introduce tax stamps and fuel marking systems.

This approach will enable GRA to effectively monitor production levels and levy appropriate taxes, thus ensuring the quality and quantity of goods produced by companies are regulated.

Additionally, fuel marking is anticipated to simplify GRA’s operations and provide solid revenue assurances through digital systems.

To improve performance and align with global practices, Darboe urged the public to embrace digital reforms.

He emphasized the importance of paying fair taxes to facilitate the nation’s growth and development.

By: Zackline Colley

In a historic move, The Gambia is set to host the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) summit for the first time in its history. The event, scheduled from May 4th to the 5th, marks a significant milestone for the West African nation as it prepares to welcome leaders and delegates from 57 member states, including 48 Muslim-majority countries.

The OIC, founded in 1969, aims to be the collective voice of the Muslim world, advocating for international peace and harmony while safeguarding the interests of its member states. With a collective population exceeding 1.8 billion people and covering an area of 31.66 million square kilometers, the organization holds considerable global influence.

To ensure a successful summit, The Gambia has invested in infrastructural development, including the construction of the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center, where the event will take place. Additionally, significant improvements have been made to the country’s road networks, enhancing accessibility for delegates and visitors.

The government of The Gambia has allocated a budget of 300 million Dalasis towards hosting the summit, underscoring its commitment to providing a conducive environment for meaningful discussions and collaborations among member states.

In anticipation of the event, the media, often referred to as the fourth estate, has undergone extensive training on ethics, etiquette, and interview techniques. This initiative aims to ensure smooth coverage of the summit and accurate reporting, highlighting The Gambia’s capabilities on the global stage.

As The Gambia prepares to welcome leaders and delegates from across the Muslim world, the hosting of the OIC summit signifies a momentous occasion for the nation, showcasing its potential as a key player in promoting international cooperation and dialogue.

By: Alieu Jallow

A young Gambian lady recently fell victim to an online scam.

According to her, she met a person claiming to be Dr. Martinez Harr with whom she regularly chatted on WhatsApp. She described their communication as very cordial and frequent.

“He calls me all the time, both via video call and WhatsApp,” she asserts.

The young lady told our reporter that the man made her believe he was a doctor by sending her pictures of his patients at the hospital, all geared towards building trust and executing his plans.

“He sent me pictures of his patients at the hospital, and in the end, I trusted him so much because of what he showed me. But as they say, don’t even trust your shadow.”

The young lady further explained that one day, Dr. Martinez shared photos of himself in a shopping mall, on a shopping spree, where he promised to buy her materials.

“He showed me everything, and when he returned home, he took pictures of the materials and sent them to me. When I asked him who owned these materials, he told me they were mine, and he asked for my details, which I sent to him.”

The young woman, falling victim to the scammer’s deception, asserts that she received pictures from the purported delivery agent, indicating receipt of her materials. These materials were due to arrive in The Gambia within a given time frame, and she was told she would receive a call from the agency to provide information about payment and pickup.

“One morning, I received a call from the agency, and they told me the package had arrived. They asked me to pay D15,000.00 to get the package, but I told them I didn’t have that amount. We agreed on D3000, and when I sent them that, they said it wasn’t enough. They demanded another payment of D25,000.00 because they claimed the package contained more items. They promised me I would receive the package, so I paid the money at Guaranty Trust Bank.”

She further narrated that upon payment of the D25,000, the fraudsters requested more money. It was only then that she realized she had fallen into the hands of scammers.

In distress and desperate for resolution, the young lady said she understood that she was not the only victim. Many others had also paid into a Guaranty Trust Bank account under the name Lamin Bojang.

“I am a victim, and all I can advise my sisters is to be very careful so that what happened to me does not happen to you. Never trust anyone, and if a stranger texts you, don’t reply; just block them. I’m not even sure if they are not using black magic or juju. It’s crazy,” she shared as a piece of advice.

By: Adama Sanneh

In Sami Koto (URR), women are the frontline workers in the daily activities of the village, from gardening to marketing in a neighboring community. They rely entirely on agriculture, especially their gardens, to feed their families. However, they face numerous challenges with limited opportunities.

Despite encountering social challenges, the notable issues in their gardens include a poorly maintained perimeter fence, insufficient water supply, and a lack of fertilizer. Fanta Jabbie, a gardener, expressed her frustrations: “We face many challenges in Sami Koto, including our garden. For two days, I have been trying to sell my harvest without success, and I don’t have a storage facility to keep it fresh. This is a significant loss for me as I end up having to discard it.”

She further explained, “We only have one market to sell our products, which is Garawol, our neighboring village. Our men are mostly unemployed, and this garden is our main source of livelihood. However, we lack fertilizer, and the government pays little attention to our plight. We need assistance!” she emphasized.

Fanta highlighted that the income from selling their produce is crucial for supporting their families. The garden has only one well, causing delays as multiple people have to wait to water their beds. If the well dries up, they must wait until the next day, impacting the garden’s growth.

Mama Jawla, Wuday Kebba Fatty, Fanta Banora, and Bakary Fatty, all gardeners, echoed similar challenges. They lamented the poor condition of the perimeter fence, which allows animals to intrude and destroy their plants. Consequently, they are forced to stay in the garden late to prevent such intrusions.

Moreover, they emphasized the lack of storage facilities for their products. The women of Sami Koto wake up at 5 o’clock every morning to catch the first vehicle to Garawol or walk several kilometers to sell their products.

Since farming is their sole source of livelihood, these women urge the government to provide electricity to explore other means of survival and better care for their children.

By: Dawda Baldeh

The opposition Gambia Action Party (GAP) has condemned the brutal killing of Lamin Touray, a Gambian migrant residing in Germany who was tragically shot to death by the German police. The tragic shooting incident occurred in Germany yesterday, leaving many Gambians at home and abroad in a state of anxiety and anger, as footage of the incident shows how the deceased was shot multiple times.

Speaking to The Fatu Network, Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly, GAP leader, described the killing as horrific.

“This is an egregious violation of human rights compounded by clear indications of racism,” he said.

Batchilly added that the stark reality of this extrajudicial murder must not be overlooked—it demands swift and decisive justice.

“We call upon the Gambian government to launch a thorough investigation into this tragic incident, leveraging the full support of our embassy in Germany to uncover the truth,” he emphasized.

Like many others, Batchilly said such incidents concern a lack of regard for African lives, epitomized by such a callous act, highlighting a persistent issue of systemic racism and injustice that continues to plague our global society.

He called on the European Union, as a beacon of democracy and human rights, to demonstrate impartiality and integrity by suspending the responsible member state and taking concrete steps to prevent further atrocities of this nature.

Batchilly further called on the international community to take a stand against such blatant discrimination and violence, ensuring that all lives are treated with equal value and dignity. GAP further demands that the Gambian government take decisive action by severing all ties with Germany and the European Union until justice is served and the safety of our citizens worldwide is guaranteed.

“Racism in any form will not be tolerated under a Gambia Action Party-led government, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to fighting for equality, justice, and the protection of all lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the victim as we seek solace in the hope for eternal peace and justice,” Batchilly sympathized.

He went on to say that it is time for the world to recognize and address the ongoing injustices faced by Africans and people of African descent and to ensure that such abhorrent acts of racism are eradicated from our society once and for all.

By: Dawda Baldeh

The High Court has ordered over fourteen individuals, who acted as guarantors for crew members who absconded from the Cruise Ship Crew Gambia, to pay a fine of $50,000 each or face the possibility of property forfeiture.

These crew members who secured contracts to work on different cruise ships globally reportedly abandoned their ships upon arriving at their destinations.

The agency called this act a breach of contract agreement and took the matter to court as both parties had agreed to the contract terms and conditions.

In Banjul, Justice Ebrima Jaiteh delivered a judgment ordering the guarantors of the absconded cruise ship crew members to forfeit bonds totalling US$50,000 to the Cruise Ship Crew of Gambia.

Gambia’s Cruise Ship Crew lawyer, Badou S. Conteh, led the lawsuit involving guarantors who were taken to court.

Kaddy Comma from Bakau and Bintou Comma from Bafuloto guaranteed Jerreh Njie, who absconded upon arrival in the United States. Amat Njie from Kunkujang Ketaya and Nyang Sallah from New Yundum were guarantors for Awa Njie, who also absconded. Modou Lamin Jabang, Baboucar Kebe, and Seray Jabang from Pirang guaranteed Bunama Jabang. Aishatou Jarra from Brufut was the guarantor for Lamin Manneh. Salifu Joof from Brufut and Yankuba Badjie guaranteed Ebrima Joof. Manyima Jatta from Sanyang and Mariama Jatta from Brufut stood for Sanna Bojang, and Amadou Jallow from Tujereng was the guarantor for Burrie Njie. Bakary Saidykhan and Lamin Saidykhan guaranteed Musa Saidykhan. All these individuals were recruited by Cruise Ship Crew, Gambia, and absconded after arriving in the US.

According to the court ruling, if the guarantors fail to pay the US50,000 for each of the absconded persons, the guarantors stand to lose properties.

Reacting to the court ruling, Musa Drammeh, the Director of Operations at Cruise Ship Crew Gambia said all crew members are given five-year visas upon getting contracts.

Drammeh questioned why young people would want to abscond after having valid visas to work and renew their contracts.

“Each crew member has a five-year visa and why should they abscond? This absconding has led to visa rejection for hundreds of young people who should have been given the opportunity,” he said.

He further revealed that the agency’s primary goal is to create job opportunities for young people and mitigate the risk of embarking on the perilous journey.

By: Mama A. Touray

In its mission to enhance awareness of its roles in educational institutions, The Gambia Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (GCCPC) conducted an outreach with social science students at the University of The Gambia on its mandate yesterday.

The outreach session focused on the importance of fostering competition and consumer rights as stipulated by the Gambia Competition and Consumer Protection Acts. Consumer Protection Manager Fabakary Touray informed the students about the rights of consumers in The Gambia as per the Consumer Protection Act of 2014. Touray further guided the students through common consumer complaints received by the Consumer Department and explained how these issues are addressed.

Consumer protection official Fanta Ceesay, in her deliberations, explained how to file complaints to the commission and delved into a major consumer complaint issue, the return policy, disproving the notion that goods bought cannot be returned after 24 hours. During the question-and-answer session on consumer rights topics, she familiarized the students with the rights and responsibilities of a consumer regarding the return policy as per the Consumer Protection Act 2014.

Basiru Njie, an economist from the Competition Department, explained The Gambia Competition Act 2007 to the students, highlighting how it fosters competition among businesses in the country. Njie also disclosed how the commission works to prevent anti-competitive practices in the market, providing a comprehensive definition and examples of business competition and its advantages for consumers.

Advocacy and Information Officer Muhammed Lamin Drammeh stated that the massive awareness campaign will run through the next quarter of the year. He added that this is the first activity and they will be visiting major markets in the country to sensitize consumers and businesses on their rights and responsibilities. Drammeh underscored the importance of the engagement, stating that engaging with university students was exceptionally essential. He expressed confidence that the students now comprehend competition and consumer rights as per the acts and understand how competition among businesses can boost the country’s economy.

Drammeh also mentioned that the fifty-five students engaged will now be able to advise or report consumer rights violations issues as well as anti-competitive activities.

This engagement session, attended by about 55 students from the University of The Gambia’s social science department to enhance their awareness of the commission’s mandates, especially among tertiary students, is a crucial part of the commission’s advocacy strategy for this year.

The Gambia Competition and Consumer Protection Commission is a statutory authority under the purview of the Ministry of Trade and Industry. It is also the body responsible for the promotion and protection of consumers mandated by the Competition Act 2007, the Consumer Protection Act 2014, and the Essential Commodities Act 2015.