In Kiang Kwinella, Lower River Region, the Tresor Women Warriors celebrated its fifth anniversary in a remarkable manner, capturing the attention of notable individuals.
The occasion attracted prominent personalities, including the First Lady Fatoumata Bah Barrow, Second Lady Sarjo Mballow Barrow, a representative from the National Assembly, district chiefs, the Vice President’s wife, and other entrepreneurs who delivered speeches, sharing the organization’s successes and challenges throughout the years.
During the celebration, Aji Kumba Daffeh Kah, the President of Tresor Women Warriors, emphasized the significance of the day in the mission to empower women.
She expressed gratitude to her husband, who serves as her main source of inspiration and support, enabling her achievements.
Madam Daffeh Kah acknowledged the contributions and partnerships of the women involved and other collaborators in the journey of Tresor Women Warriors, making special mention of their valuable collaboration on sad stories of conflicts between women in marriages, which she has resolved. Her aim is to unite all women.
Addressing the audience, she highlighted the group’s nationwide reach of seven thousand women, emphasizing their heroism and transformative impact.
Furthermore, she identified the predicament faced by women concerning access to land for agricultural and business purposes.
The Tresor Women Warriors organization has endeavored to address this issue by purchasing plots of land to empower women.
She urged husbands to support their wives and assist them in acquiring land for entrepreneurial pursuits.
Moving forward, she urged attendees to plan for the future by ensuring that their wives are taken care of financially and providing them with lands, as women are particularly susceptible to difficult family inheritances if neglected.
Highlighting key concerns, she asserted that some men seek intimacy rather than marriage, and she emphasized the organization’s transformational impact on empowering women financially and unveiled plans to establish a women’s bank within a decade.
Furthermore, showcasing support and collaboration, she called upon the government and stakeholders to provide sufficient funding, welcoming opportunities for partnerships with government and private organizations.
Claudiana Cole, the Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, praised the Tresor Women Warriors for prioritizing women’s empowerment, affirming its alignment with the government’s objectives.
She commended Aji and the entire organization, encouraging them to continue their commendable work as it undoubtedly benefits women.
Minister Cole congratulated the Tresor Women Warriors on their remarkable achievements over the past five years and called on the women to remain united in pursuit of their common goals for social and economic empowerment.
During the event, various speakers reaffirmed their commitment to combating sexual and gender-based violence, with Minister Cole emphasizing the urgency of safeguarding vulnerable women and girls, who represent the future.
She also revealed the existence of a women’s empowerment fund that has made a positive impact on many women’s lives.
She beckoned attendees to support Aji Kumba Daffeh Kah’s efforts in advancing the project.
Joining the celebration from the United States, Dr. Saris Morris urged women to exhibit strength and confidence in their daily endeavors.
As a mother of six children and CEO of three successful businesses, she encourages women to overlook their differences and support one another, similar to the values upheld by the Tresor Women Warriors.
Reflecting on their personal journeys, several women shared how their lives have been transformed through their involvement in the Tresor Women Warriors.
These inspiring stories serve as motivation for potential new participants striving to improve their circumstances and effectively utilize available resources as successful entrepreneurs.
Amie Jatta Njie applauded Aji Daffeh Kah for her consistent support of women and highlighted the crucial role women play in national development when provided with the necessary support.
She deemed women as dedicated individuals who can contribute significantly to nation-building.
The fifth-year anniversary celebration delighted the attendees in Kiang Kwinella, with cultural dance performances adding to the memorable experience.
As a gesture of appreciation for their immense support, individuals who have greatly contributed to the growth of the Tresor Women Warriors were honored with awards as the event came to a close.
The Tresor Women Warriors 5th-anniversary celebration in Kiang Kwinella has attracted esteemed guests, including the First Lady Fatoumatta Bah Barrow, district chiefs, National Assembly representatives, village heads, and women’s rights advocates.
The event commemorates the fifth anniversary of Tresor Women Warriors, which has greatly empowered women in the country.
As the celebration is about to commence, women dressed in fashionable costumes have filled the venue, creating an atmosphere of anticipation for this special day.
The First Lady will be presiding over the event, highlighting its importance for women’s empowerment.
Over the past five years, Tresor Women Warriors has been a catalyst for change, passionately dedicated to empowering women in various aspects of their lives.
Some of the key achievements that will be showcased during the event include Enterprise Development, which has supported and guided women entrepreneurs, contributing to their success and growth.
The celebration will also highlight Networking and Mentorship, emphasizing the extensive network of over 7000 women nationwide who have collaborated and received mentorship to excel in diverse fields.
Several prominent personalities are expected to deliver motivational speeches on various topics that promote the welfare of women and girls.
There are growing worries for Big Banga as his upcoming show “Ukuwa Chilini” approaches.
The concern stems from the possibility of a low turnout due to other free concerts taking place on the same day, which could potentially draw away his audience.
Despite high expectations for a large crowd at Manjai Park on January 6, 2024, the artist is anxious about the impact of these competing events.
Banga, who hopes to make a breakthrough using his talents, is disappointed by the treatment he has received from some music promoters.
The uncertainty around his ability to fill Manjai Park is distressing for the young singer.
He is also disheartened by the negative direction The Gambian music industry is taking.
Addressing his concerns on his official Instagram Live, he expressed his frustration and emphasized the need for unity and support within the industry.
Banga mentioned previous instances where similar issues occurred during his Respeco Album concert.
He questioned whether Gambians were truly ready to support him and further his career.
“No to tribalism in our music industry, Let’s support each other and stop the hypocrisy, I’m seeing a lot of free shows on my concert day, which makes me sad,” he revealed.
Despite his grievances, he clarified that he does not have any issues with other Gambian artists and shared his aspirations of success.
As a figure known for his kindness and generosity towards fellow Gambian artists, many are puzzled as to why this situation is happening and who may be responsible.
It is worth noting that Banga was awarded Soninka Artist of the Year last year and has been consistently winning the award for the past 3 years.
(Geneva) – The opening of a Swiss trial on January 8, 2024, for serious crimes committed in The Gambia represents a significant advance for justice for the victims of grave abuses, Gambian and international groups that are part of the Jammeh2Justice campaign said today.
The former Gambian Interior Minister Ousman Sonko is charged with crimes against humanity relating to torture, kidnapping, sexual violence, and unlawful killings between 2000 and 2016 under then-President Yahya Jammeh. Jammeh’s 22-year rule was marked by systematic and widespread human rights violations, such as arbitrary arrests, torture including sexual violence, extrajudicial killings, and enforced disappearances of actual and perceived opponents to his rule.
“The trial of Ousman Sonko is another major step in the search for justice for victims of brutal crimes and their families committed under Jammeh’s rule,” said Sirra Ndow, coordinator of the Jammeh2Justice campaign. “The Sonko case should reinforce efforts back in The Gambia to try crimes under Jammeh’s rule so that perpetrators are held to account for the atrocities committed.”
Sonko was arrested in Bern, Switzerland on January 26, 2017, the day after TRIAL International filed a criminal complaint against him. The Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland filed an indictment against Sonko before the Federal Criminal Court on April 17, 2023. The trial, taking place in the city of Bellinzona, is expected to last about three weeks.
The trial is possible because Swiss law recognizes universal jurisdiction over certain serious international crimes, allowing for the prosecution of these crimes no matter where they were committed and regardless of the nationality of the suspects or victims. Swiss nongovernmental organizations, former federal prosecutors, members of parliament, and others have previously criticized judicial officials in Switzerland for lagging behind other European countries on universal jurisdiction cases despite having solid legislation to address serious crimes.
“With Sonko’s trial, Switzerland appears at last to be gaining momentum on prosecuting atrocity crimes committed abroad,” said Philip Grant, executive director at TRIAL International, which supports plaintiffs in the case. “Sonko is the highest-level former official to be tried under the principle of universal jurisdiction in Europe.”
Sonko is the second person to be tried in Switzerland before a non-military court for serious crimes committed abroad, the second person to be tried in Europe for crimes committed in The Gambia, and the highest ranked official to be prosecuted in Europe on the basis of universal jurisdiction. Gambian activists and survivors, and international advocates will attend the trial’s opening in Bellinzona and are available for comment. The first case addressing crimes committed in The Gambia was in Germany against Bai Lowe, a former member of the paramilitary unit known as the “Junglers,” which Jammeh created. Lowe was convicted and sentenced to life in prison by a German court on November 30, 2023, for two murders and an attempted murder, constituting crimes against humanity.
A major challenge will be to ensure that Gambians, whether in the audience or outside the courtroom, can access, follow, and understand the proceedings, which will be conducted in German. Survivors, victims’ groups, and civil society groups have tried to ensure that information on developments is disseminated within The Gambia to increase their impact.
“Developments in the proceedings of such a significant case should be made accessible to Gambians, victims and non-victims alike, in the English language, which they understand, thereby boosting their interest in the trial,” said Fatoumata Sandeng, a plaintiff in the Sonko case who heads the Solo Sandeng Foundation. “Greater action on accountability by the government back home in Gambia is also needed.”
Since Jammeh’s fall, The Gambia has moved forward with only two prosecutions for Jammeh-era crimes. In December 24, 2021, the final report of Gambia’s Truth Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) found that Jammeh and 69 of his associates committed crimes against humanity, and called for their prosecution. On May 25, 2022, the Gambian government accepted the TRRC’s recommendation for accountability, but without an action plan.
On May 12, 2023, the government presented a long-awaited detailed implementation plan calling for the creation of a Special Prosecutor’s Office to complete the investigations initiated by the TRRC and to prepare case-ready dossiers. A hybrid tribunal of Gambia and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) would be created to carry out prosecutions of the most serious offenses. The Gambia and ECOWAS have created a joint technical committee to develop the hybrid court.
“The Gambian government and ECOWAS should move without delay to create the hybrid court,” said Elise Keppler, associate international justice director at Human Rights Watch. “Victims and the Gambian public have waited a very long time to have the chance to see justice done.”
Groups involved with the campaign include: Africa Center for International Law and Accountability (ACILA), African Network Against Extrajudicial Killings and Enforced Disappearances (ANEKED), Amnesty International–Ghana, Center for Justice and Accountability, Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (CHRI), Gambia Center for Victims of Human Rights Violations, Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-GHANA), Human Rights Advocacy Center, Human Rights Watch, International Commission of Jurists, Institute for Human Rights and Development in Africa (IHRDA), Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), POS Foundation, Right 2 Know–Gambia, Solo Sandeng Foundation, The Toufah Foundation, TRIAL International, and Women’s Association for Victims’ Empowerment (WAVE).
For more information, please contact:
Anja Härtwig (English, French, German) [email protected]
+41 22 519 03 96
The OIC Secretariat staff and the Gambia Red Cross Society have commenced a three-day first aid training program in preparation for the upcoming Organization of Islamic Cooperation summit.
The training, held at the Sir Dawda Jawara International Conference Center, aims to equip the staff with basic first aid skills.
Yankuba Dibba, the CEO of OIC Gambia, emphasized the importance of event planning and the need to address safety and health concerns during the summit.
He highlighted that the knowledge gained from the training could have a lasting impact on the participants, encouraging them to utilize their skills to manage any emergencies that may arise.
Alasan Senghore, Secretary General of the Gambia Red Cross Society, expressed his excitement about the partnership between the Red Cross and the OIC Secretariat.
He clarified that the Red Cross is not an NGO but an organization established by an Act of Parliament to complement government efforts.
Senghore explained the mission of the Red Cross to save lives and narrated the history of its founder and the importance of treating casualties during times of conflict.
“The most important thing at the moment is event planning. Most people will only come here for two reasons; this is about their safety, and health concerns will be addressed.
Health is everyone’s business, and what you will learn here today will last for generations, enabling you to pass on the knowledge and save yourself and others.
In most cases when accidents occur, people just grab the casualties and rush them to the hospital without observing any first aid support,” he explained.
Senghore stressed the significance of first aid, citing personal experiences and the need for proper handling of cases before reaching hospitals.
“I was a trained first aider in the early days, but unfortunately, I never trained any of my family members. So, one day I had an issue but couldn’t do anything for myself.
Most of the disabilities we have in the country after accidents are due to how we handle cases before they are taken to the hospitals.
If someone has a heart attack without receiving any first aid before reaching the hospitals, he/she dies or experiences disabilities,” Senghore told the attendees.
He expressed the objective of having every family in the country trained in first aid to mitigate preventable casualties.
Senghore also urged the government to support the Red Cross and encouraged the participants to make the best use of the training.
Ebrima Ousman Ndure, who presided over the official opening, emphasized the importance of first aid and its potential to save lives.
He highlighted the large number of guests expected for the summit and the significance of the training in that context.
Following the official opening, the participants were divided into groups to begin the practical aspect of the training.
By the end of the three-day program, the participants are expected to have gained experience in basic first aid, which they will be able to apply during and after the summit.
The National Assembly Member for Janjanbureh, Omar Jammeh, expressed serious concerns about logistics in an exclusive interview with the Fatu Network. He attributes these challenges to issues that have arisen from the state in preparation for the much-anticipated Bicentenary commemoration of the existence of Janjanbureh, commonly known as MacCarthy Island. Originally named Lemain Island,
“We are facing a lot of challenges, especially from the side of the state or the national organizing committee. As we speak right now, we have some logistics problems, more specifically, with food and accommodation,” Hon. Jammeh stressed.
He went on to say that despite the challenges, the inhabitants of the island are highly prepared for the commemoration, emphasizing the benefits the island stands to gain. This includes the recollections of the past, unifying the different tribes in the town and enhancing social development.
“It will make the island more visible, even though it’s known worldwide. We believe this event will also enhance business in the community. Both women and young people within the business sector will contribute to tourism, attracting more visitors to recognize the island.”
Hon. Jammeh stressed that there were plans to construct some magnifying tourist structures before the commencement of the event but attributed the failure to the government’s lack of funds. The atmosphere in Janjanbureh is lively, with lots of fanfare and some acrobatic displays ahead of the grand opening.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced a 40% increase in the prize money for the winner of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (“AFCON”) in Ivory Coast 2023.
The winner of the TotalEnergies AFCON Ivory Coast 2023 will now receive USD 7,000,000.
The runner-up of the TotalEnergies AFCON Ivory Coast 2023 will receive USD 4,000,000.
Each of the two semi-finalists will receive USD 2,500,000, and each of the four quarter-finalists will receive USD 1,300,000.
CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe stated, “CAF has made significant progress over the past two years in increasing the prize money for AFCON and all its other major competitions. We have increased the prize money for the AFCON winner to USD 7,000,000, which is a 40% increase from the previous AFCON prize money. I am confident that a portion of the prize money will contribute to developing football and also benefit all football stakeholders, as well as assist our member associations with their administrations.”
Article credit: The Confederation of African Football (CAF)
The Gambia Football Federation (GFF) has said that FIFA, the World Football Governing Body, has intervened in the GFF infrastructural projects 14 times instead of constructing 14 football pitches as listed on the FIFA website on the FIFA Forward Fund for member associations.
Speaking to the press, the General Secretary of the Gambia Football Federation, Lamin Jassey, said FIFA only intervened in the federation’s football infrastructural projects from 2016-2022 instead of building fourteen football pitches from scratch.
“FIFA, I repeat, did not build fourteen fields. FIFA intervened fourteen times or FIFA did fourteen projects as far as infrastructure is concerned from 2016-2022,” Jassey told the press.
Jassey also provided a breakdown of the interventions made. He mentioned that in certain areas, changing rooms were renovated, public toilets were built, perimeter fences were installed, and in some places, floodlights were added. Additionally, he mentioned that the artificial pitches at Banjul and Brikama mini-stadiums were replaced.
According to Jassey, he reached out to FIFA when the report came out, which steered numerous questions on the integrity of the federation.
“I reach out to FIFA myself to talk about this. I called FIFA and asked them where are the 14 pitches. They made it very clear it was the interventions,” he informed the press.
Jassey agreed that the manner the report was published by FIFA on their website could have misled many people.
“I may say that the way they (FIFA) have published the graph, the explanation of it may have misled,” he said.
However, still on the FIFA website, it is reported that it has built fourteen pitches for the Gambia Football Federation through part of the FIFA fund released to member associations.
The leader of the opposition United Democratic Party, Ousanu Darboe, has claimed that 2024 will be worse than 2023 for The Gambia.
Darboe who is currently speaking at a press conference in Manjai, said: “This year will be worse than 2023 because this government doesn’t care and doesn’t listen to what people said. They believe that no one on the surface of this earth will stop them from doing what they want to do. To them, they are more powerful than Yahya Jammeh because apart from the entire security apparatus in the country, they have the ECOMIG in the country.”
On the draft constitution
Commenting on the draft constitution, the UDP leader said: “The United Democratic Party (UDP) lawmakers including other NAMs were the lawmakers that supported and voted in favour of the draft constitution when it was taken to the National Assembly. However, it was so disappointing that an adviser to President Barrow made it clear during an interview with an online TV that they were going to kick out the draft constitution.”
Darboe further added: “When the draft constitution was taken to the assembly, Barrow NAM and his allies voted against the draft constitution. But let me make it very clear that even a single portion of the draft constitution if it is removed, we will not support it and we will vote against it. We will not accept any changes in the draft constitution,” he warned.
(Geneva, 4 January 2024) The trial of Ousman Sonko, former Gambian Minister of Interior, will open before the Swiss Federal Criminal Court on 8 January 2024 and last until 30 January. Ousman Sonko is accused of multiple counts of crimes against humanity, allegedly committed under the regime of former Gambian President Yahya Jammeh. TRIAL International filed the criminal complaint against Ousman Sonko in January 2017.
The Swiss prosecuting authorities have charged Mr. Sonko with a range of heinous acts: the killing of a political opponent in 2000; acts of sexual violence between 2000 and 2002, as well as in 2005; involvement in torture and illegal detention related to a coup plot in March 2006; and the murder of a politician in 2011. The Office of the Attorney General also accuses Ousman Sonko of having co-perpetrated deprivation of liberty and acts of torture of peaceful demonstrators in 2016, when he was Minister of the Interior. These acts have been qualified by the Swiss prosecutor as crimes against humanity.
“This trial is a significant moment in Swiss judicial history, being only the second trial for crimes against humanity in the country. Ousman Sonko will also be the highest-ranking state official ever to be tried for international crimes under the principle of universal jurisdiction in Europe”, said Leslie Haskell, President of TRIAL International. Under this principle, States have the possibility to prosecute the perpetrators of international crimes on their territory, regardless of where the crimes were committed or the nationality of the perpetrators and victims.
TRIAL International is supporting nine plaintiffs who will travel all the way to Bellinzona to be heard by the court. Unfortunately, a tenth passed away in October 2023, due to lasting consequences of her mistreatment at the time. This trial shines a beacon of hope for victims of the atrocities committed during Jammeh’s 1994-2016 reign of terror. On 30 November 2023 already, a former member of a paramilitary unit known as “Junglers”, created by the former President, was sentenced by a German court to life imprisonment for crimes against humanity, in relation to two murders and an attempted murder. Another alleged member of the same death squad, Michael Correa, is scheduled to stand trial in Denver, USA, in September 2024. He faces charges of torture and conspiracy to commit torture.
“While the transitional justice process in The Gambia remains too slow, these trials in Germany and Switzerland are finally providing the closure that the victims have been waiting for too long now”, said one of the plaintiffs, whose identity remains hidden at this stage. Indeed, a possible recognition of Ousman Sonko’s role in the abuses committed during Jammeh’s dictatorship will not only contribute to reducing impunity for the violations that took place in The Gambia during Mr. Jammeh’s regime, but may also spur domestic prosecutions, propelling the transitional justice process initiated in 2017.
The proceedings will be in German and open to the public and the media. However, there will be no interpretation provided other than when the defendant, the victims and English-speaking witnesses will take the stand. TRIAL International expresses regret over this decision, which will limit the ability of plaintiffs, journalists and the Gambian community to fully comprehend and report on the proceedings. Upholding the principle that “justice must not only be done but be seen to be done,” TRIAL International advocates for meaningful access to such a historic trial for victims and the affected Gambian communities.
For more information, please contact:
Anja Härtwig (English, French, German) [email protected]
+41 22 519 03 96
On Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at a magistrate court in the capital Freetown, before Magistrate Santigie Bangura, Sierra Leone’s former president, Ernest Bai Koroma, was formally charged with treason, misprision of treason, and two counts of harboring. The erstwhile head of state is alleged to have been involved in overthrowing the government of his successor, President Julius Maada Bio, on November 26, 2023. The Magistrate Court on Wednesday commenced preliminary investigations into the four-count charge against the former president.
The defense team of the former president, led by Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, Esq., submitted to the Magistrate Court an order of the High Court given by Justice Samuel Taylor granting bail to the accused.
The application for bail was made before the High Court pursuant to section 79 of the Criminal Procedure Act of 1965, and in accordance with the Bail Regulation of 2018 for and on behalf of the former president by Lawyer A. S. Sesay, witnessed by Lawyer A. V. Koroma from the Prosecution.
In granting the bail application, Justice Taylor ordered that a maximum of 10 people, including Ernest Koroma’s wife, children, lawyers, and members of his political party, are allowed to live at his residence.
The judge also ordered that the former president should not leave his premises without the express permission of the Inspector General of Police, adding that only the National Chairman and the Deputy of his political party [All People’s Congress party] are allowed to visit him.
Added to the bail conditions, Justice Taylor ordered the former president to provide two sureties who are senior citizens resident in the Western Area of Sierra Leone, and that all visits to his residence should be permitted by the Inspector General of Police.
Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, the lead lawyer of the former president, said charges against Koroma are “trumped-up charges”.
Lawyer Kamara told BBC’s Umaru Fofana that they were “shocked and in utter disbelief” at the charges, adding that “a dangerous precedent has been set”. “A dark cloud has shadowed the skies of our country [by] dragging a former head of state who was democratically elected, on trumped-up charges under a political vendetta,” Lawyer Kamara said.
On the same development, Foreign Minister Timothy Kabba confirmed receiving a letter written by the president of the ECOWAS Commission detailing arrangements to allow for the temporary relocation of former President Ernest Bai Koroma, who now faces treason charges.
The foreign minister said that his government did not, however, countenance the content of the said letter, saying “it is a unilateral proposition by the president of the ECOWAS Commission”. Under the terms of the letter, Koroma was to be flown to Nigeria on January 4 with all legal and administrative procedures against him dropped, keeping his full entitlement as a former President.
The formal indictment of former president Ernest Bai Koroma came just a day after the Government of Sierra Leone announced treason charges for 12 suspects linked to the failed coup, including the organizing secretary of the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) party. The treason case of the said 12 persons, who were earlier charged, was adjourned to January 9, 2024.
The treason case of the former president was adjourned to January 17, 2024.
It could be recalled that the Government of Sierra Leone, on November 26, 2023, reported that some unidentified persons attacked the armory at Wilberforce Military Barracks, the Central Prison, and some police stations in Freetown, leading to unrest, panic, deaths, and the release of prisoners.
Nestled in the heart of Foni Kansala in West Coast Region five kilometres off the Trans-Gambia Highway lies a small historic village, Darsilameh Sheriff Kunda, popularly known as Darsilameh Sangajorr. This tiny semi-island is home to schoolchildren who must walk an exhausting 10 kilometres to and from school, burning with the ardent desire to acquire education. However, aside from the gruelling trek that leaves many children too tired to properly focus on their studies, there are other dangers lurking in the shadows and in the bushes.
On a bitterly cold morning, five young students from the village trudged along the dirty path towards the Sangajor Basic Cycle, a school that has served the district since the early nineties. Dressed in oversized, worn-out blue trousers and creased white shirts, their school uniforms offer little protection from the biting wind in the cold season. Despite the harsh weather and long walk, these determined students press on with unwavering determination, but the challenges are numerous and life-threatening, including the constant risk of snake, hyena, rape, and thug attacks in the dangerous and lonely bushes.
Abba Hydara, a ninth-grader, is about to leave the school as it doesn’t have a senior secondary. He shares concerns that walking through the thick bushes on their way to school is risky and that they are not allowed to enter the exam hall if they arrive late.
“It is not just about the distance, but it is also about the numerous dangers we encounter on our way to school. We have, on so many occasions, found dangerous snakes on our path to school.
“For us the boys, we do manage to scare them off, but for the girls, it is different. When they see these things, they return home, missing school for the day. We all want to be educated, but it is difficult to pursue education in these conditions. We need a school in this village. I think we deserve it,” Abba tells The Fatu Network.
Malaine Hydara, an eighth grader, explains to The Fatu Network the hardships they face getting to school and why a school is needed in Darsilameh.
“Getting to school is very hard. It takes us more than one hour and sometimes more, and the long distance we walk to get to school does not exempt us from punishment when we are late. Teachers do not care, and they do not consider how far away we are from school.
“Our main problem is the distance because it affects us even academically. It is very difficult to even read your books or do your assignments after walking a 10-kilometre distance to and from school. We are suffering and we call on the government and NGOs to build us a school here in Darsilameh,” he says.
The alkalo, Buyeh Touray, shares similar concerns with the students. He narrates a story about a schoolgirl who fainted in the middle of the bush this year. Due to the long distance and remote road to school, they had to call an ambulance from Bwiam Hospital to carry her. He also mentions an incident of attempted rape.
“This village needs a school. It is imperative we have one. The children of this village, including mine, go through so many trials just to get to school. Just this year, a young man attacked one of the girls on her way to school, trying to rape her; it is a police case now,” he reveals.
In the rainy season, the students must navigate through the downpour, which soaks their school materials, especially books, and makes their journey even more arduous.
“It is very difficult for the children, and equally difficult for us as parents during rainy seasons,” Buyeh Touray adds. “When it rains midway on their way to school, all of their books get soaked, including other learning materials. We buy lots of learning materials during rainy seasons. I plead with the government to come to our aid. Our children need a close school, so I would, therefore, call on the government to build us a school”.
Jaimutarr Hydara, like Abba, is a ninth-grader. Wearing worn-out shoes and combing his hair as he navigates the thick bushes that surround his path to school. Jaimutarr opens up to The Fatu Network about the difficulties he and his fellow students face due to exhaustion. He speaks passionately about the need for a school in Darsilameh, which would not only improve their overall grades but also reignite their passion for learning.
“Walking five kilometres in this cold weather to get to school is hard. No child can walk 10 kilometres a day and be able to ace all their subjects during exams.
“There is no such thing as a school bus here and most of our parents are poor and cannot afford bicycles for us, and even though we usually do well in school, we cannot compete academically with other children who do not have to walk 10 kilometres a day to get to school. The government should build us a school. That is all we are asking for,” Jaimutarr says.
Meanwhile, The Fatu Network also interviews Muhammed Faadil Hydara, the Imam of Darsilameh, after the evening prayer of Isha, which is the last prayer of the day. He expresses concern about the absence of a school in the village and urges the government and NGOs to support the education sector in the area, particularly by building a school in the village. Earlier that day, he had also spoken to the schoolchildren about the importance of education.
“There are many children who leave this village in the morning to go to school, and it is in a faraway place from the village. Forget about the distance, so many things happen to them on the road to school.
“This past rainy season, someone attacked the girls on their way to school. The police were involved, and even the governor came when he heard of the incident. Thankfully, the man was caught and put in police custody.
“For this reason, and because I have so many children who go to school, I’m always anxious and I never have peace of mind when I travel. It would greatly help if we had a school here; children would be safe, and parents would have peace of mind. I know nothing happens in the country unless it is approved by the government, so I urge the government to build a school for us here in the village”.
Amfaal Hydara, the former president of the Sheikh Malaine Foundation, speaks on behalf of the Caliph General of the village, emphasizing the need for a school that would cater to the educational needs of the children. According to him, it is crucial that the village has a school that offers primary and high school education as the children have to walk long distances to reach school, and the conditions they face while doing so pose a significant threat to their health and safety. According to him, by having a school within the village, the children would be able to receive education without compromising their well-being.
The Fatu Network takes the concerns raised by schoolchildren and natives of Darsilameh village to Almameh Gibba, the National Assembly Member of Foni Kansala. Honourable Gibba reiterates his unwavering support for every village in Foni and also confirms being aware of the difficult challenges that schoolchildren in Darsilameh face. He expresses his awareness of the unfortunate attack that occurred in the village late last year, highlighting the need for an urgent intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of the students.
“Looking at the corners of Foni Kansala, Darsilameh more so, it is about 5 kilometres from Sangajorr, and if you look at the distance from Darsilameh to Jomo Kunda where there is a primary school, it is also another long distance, so looking at the distances from both schools, it will be very difficult for these children because they will learn in distress.
“These children live in an area where mobility is a challenge as well. Road network is also a challenge, and they have to walk through the bushes to get to school.
“As the imam mentioned, I was also made aware that a girl was attacked in the bush by a man. I got involved in that discussion, and as villagers, we agreed to find solutions to protect the young children going to school”.
Honourable Gibba tells The Fatu Network that he is pushing for easier access to high schools across Foni Kansala and believes that Darsilameh village deserves to have one, even if it will be a primary school. He promises to work towards making it happen.
“As the representative of the people of Foni, I’m also pushing for easy access to high schools. Looking at the four corners of Foni Kansala, we only have one high school, which is Fatima Senior Secondary School. So, you realise that people walk fifteen to eighteen kilometres to access high school. I have once engaged the Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, and I’m still engaging her, about working on a mapping where they will look at the distance in various schools. If you look at Foni Kansala Ward, there is no high school, so therefore, I am engaging the Minister of Basic and Secondary Education to see how best they can ease the distance children walk to access higher learning.
“So, I believe if Darsilameh is accorded a primary school, it will ease their transportation burden and they will have a safe environment. I believe that villages in my constituency, more so Darsilameh, it is appropriate for them to be given access to close schooling. I will, as a representative of the people, work to see it happen.”
He was my first New York City barber in 2014. At first, I wasn’t sure if I should trust him with my hair. I doubted him. He proved me wrong.
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How the Dominican Ricardo Pena became my barber was purely an act of serendipity. It wasn’t planned. He was the only one available when I walked into the Jordan MVP barbershop in my old neighborhood on West 192nd and Broadway in the Washington Heights section of Upper Manhattan, New York City.
This was in 2014. I was newly-arrived from Detroit. At first, it was a culture shock for me. Washington Heights is Hispanic-dominated with a huge influx of Dominicans. These barbers here —- their styles and ambience —- looked different, not what I was used to living in the neighborhoods of West Detroit. There, the barbershops were run by African-Americans in a predominantly black city. The music inside those shops was R&B and hip hop. I listened to Tupac, Eminem and the D12, Dr. Dre, Snopp Dogg, Scarface and Mobb Deep. I feasted on Gangsta Rap music and its lyrical portait of the hardscrabble life in the American inner city.
Inside the Jordan MVP on that fall evening in 2014, my first visit to a barbershop in New York, the music was anything but familiar. It was Bachata, this Spanish — and African —influenced, fast-paced and pulsating rhythm of Latin American music with origins in the Dominican Republic.
Ricardo was bobbing to the music in the corner. Unlike his colleagues who were all busy at work, Ricardo seemed to have a lot of free time at his disposal. He had no one in the chair. Was he a new barber starting to build up a clientele? Did he get stood up on an appointment? Was it just a dry day for him? Was he a good barber?
Subconsciously, I was already prejudiced against Ricardo even as I allowed him to cut my hair. And the fact that he spoke very little English added to my anxiety about him and the possibility that I might leave the shop simmering in a cauldron of discontentment.
But Ricardo surprised me. My haircut turned out excellent —- I loved it. I kept checking myself in the mirror, marveling at my beautiful fade with the neatly trimmed side burns and a face aglow and resurgent.
Ricardo’s dexterity took me aback. But it was his affability, more than his flair, that drew me to him. He turned out witty and hearty and open. He wanted to know about me: he asked where I lived and where I came from, if I was married and if I had kids. And if I was a student and what kind of work I did.
I wasn’t used to having barbers engage in conversations with me, exchanging wisecracks and getting to know me. I was only used to barbers who were all about business —-they said or opened up very little. Their services offered no possibilities of acquaintanceship on the chair and beyond it.
Ricardo left the Jordan MVP barbershop in 2016 and launched his own in Bergenfield, New Jersery, about an hour bus-ride away from my old neighborhood. I still visited him there every two weeks for several months. I had planned on keeping him as my barber. But wishes are one thing. And plausibilities are another. When I relocated to the Bronx, further from New Jersey, I realized I couldn’t sustain my biweekly commutes to Ricardo.
But with my current barber away on vacation, and since I don’t like changing barbers, Ricardo will be my fill-in for now. He and I have a history. More than that: it’s about his services, his good-naturedness and his delivery. I have never forgotten that.
The Jarju Kunda family of Sukuta has made serious accusations against the physical planning department under the Ministry of Local Government and Lands, claiming that their land has been seized without compensation. The disputed land is strategically located along the Salagi highway, a few meters from SEBEC school.
According to Ousman Jarju, they inherited the land from their parents, who received it from their ancestors in 1874 when the inhabitants of Bakoteh settled in Sukuta. He emphasized that since the land dispute arose a few years ago, they have approached the authorities for compensation without success.
“We hoped that a portion of the land would be allocated to us as compensation. You can’t take an indigenous native of Sabiji and relocate them to Brufut or Yundum. We were born and raised in Sabiji, so give us the space to live our lives in accordance with the law. For Allah’s sake, the government should balance justice with mercy, respect the laws of the land, and allow us to reside in our lands,” he pleaded.
Ousman Bojang, one of the plot owners with a land size of 120 meters, asserts that in 2019, the Ministry of Lands and the Ministry of the Interior established a panel to discuss the land issue in Salagi, involving their family and the government. According to him, after the meeting, the Permanent Secretary signed a document indicating their compensation, but the government failed to fulfill their expectations. He mentioned that his workshop, where he trains up to 20 young people, was demolished in 2022, and he appeals to the government to resolve the matter amicably, as the place has now been turned into a truck garage.
“We will follow the due procedure as the law prescribes, and I am seeking justice from the courts. They always bring paramilitary forces to intimidate me, but I will not relent because they destroyed my workshop, where I earn my living and employ others. They brought in trucks to park without considering my plight,” Ousman decried.
According to Sona Jarju, one of the sisters, they cultivate the land every year, but due to animal invasion, they had to halt their farming activity. She stresses that, as women, their families have exceeded the capacity of their allocated land after their father’s demise. She alleged that the former Director of Physical Planning vehemently informed her that the disputed land was taken to be sold to other individuals but assured compensation with plots in Yundum. She outlined that, as women, they struggled to dig the foundation and purchased land to start their house, only to find trucks occupying their space.
“We couldn’t eat due to the level of destruction the bulldozers caused. They demolished everything, including the dug foundation, the sand, and gravel we bought with the promise of refunding our expenditures. We spent over a hundred thousand on dialysis, and we are not employed by the government or a company. We all go out under the scorching sun to earn a living, and that’s how we contribute to obtaining materials for us to have a place to live.”
She said they are now fed up and are appealing to the government to intervene as they have nowhere else to go.
Before going to press, The Fatu Network made several attempts to reach the Director of Physical Planning for comments, but all efforts proved futile. Nevertheless, we will persist in obtaining their side of the story.
Lamin Singhateh, the Public Relations Officer of the Brikama Area Council, has told The Fatu Network that the Council will continue with the relocation of vendors impacted by the recent demolition of canteens, despite Governor Ousman Bojang’s directive to cease demolishing any government building along the Brikama market.
In a letter dated 27th December 2023, Ousman Bojang, the Governor of the West Coast Region, instructed the Chief Executive Officer of the Brikama Area Council, Modou Jonga, to stop the council’s ongoing demolition and construction of canteens for vendors affected by the recent demolitions of canteens by the National Roads Authority.
“I urge you to stop any demolition of any government buildings or developments within government properties without prior approval. This letter serves as a notice to Council to stop ongoing activities in these areas and send a written request and plan on your intent to use the area for approval,” the letter captures.
The Governor stated in his letter that the Ministry of Local Government and Lands has not approved the demolition of government structures in the area.
However, the Brikama Area Council shared the approval of the transfer of government quarters subsumed within the Brikama Central Market, which was dated 19th August 2020.
In the letter, Kebba Bojang, who signed on behalf the of Permanent Secretary, Office of the Vice President, informed the Brikama Area Council of its approval for the formal transfer of government structures in the market to the Council.
“I write on behalf of the office and the Committee on Office and Residential Accommodations (CORA) to inform you that approval has been granted to your request for the formal transfer of Government Quarters subsumed within the Brikama Central Market,” the letter indicates.
In response to the letter from the Governor of the West Coast Region asking the Brikama Area Council to halt the ongoing development at the Brikama Market, the Council’s Public Relations Officer spoke to The Fatu Network and stated that the Council will continue the work as they have legal authorization to do so, despite the Governor’s belief that the work is being done without approval.
Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe of the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) addressed the press in a conference where he highlighted the impressive revenue performance of the Authority in 2023 and outlined the reforms and plans for the upcoming year.
Darboe opened the conference by expressing gratitude for the presence of the media and the nation’s attention to discuss the significant achievements and challenges faced by the GRA during the 2023 financial year. He stated, “Thank you for your presence here today as we reflect on a remarkable 2023 revenue performance.”
In 2023, the GRA was tasked by the Government to collect 15.2 billion Gambian dalasis, with a growth target of 19% from the previous year. Darboe proudly announced, “I am delighted to announce that the Authority, as at 31st December 2023, collected the sum of 15.756 billion dalasis, registering a 4% collection above the target and a 23% revenue performance growth when compared to the 2022 revenue performance.”
He attributed this success to the dedication of the GRA team, government support, and the cooperation of taxpayers and stakeholders. Darboe emphasized, “This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, the support of government, and the cooperation of taxpayers and stakeholders.”
The revenue performance was marked by a substantial nominal growth of 36% in international trade and an impressive 11% growth for Domestic Taxes. Darboe credited the success to the implementation of various reforms and strategies aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and optimizing revenue collection processes.
One notable reform was the introduction of the ASYCUDA WORLD system, contributing immensely to the revenue performance in international trade. Additionally, the establishment of a Rental Income Tax Office and the introduction of IT solutions for excisable goods, telecoms services, and refined fuel further bolstered the Authority’s revenue collection efforts.
Looking ahead to 2024, Darboe outlined the planned reforms and digitalization initiatives. “In 2024, the Authority is committed to further reforms and digitalization to expand the tax base, facilitate trade, and enhance compliance,” he declared.
Among the reforms planned for 2024 are the implementation of Digital Excise Stamps, fuel marking, and the introduction of a Rental Income Mobilization System. Darboe also highlighted the upcoming implementation of the Revenue Assurance System for the Telecoms Sector and the introduction of a web-based Integrated Tax Administration System.
He assured the public and the government of the GRA’s dedication to achieving the 2024 revenue target set at 19.2 billion dalasis, acknowledging the challenges ahead. Darboe stressed, “Our success in 2024 is contingent on our collective efforts and collaboration with taxpayers, businesses, and all stakeholders.”
In conclusion, Darboe expressed gratitude to stakeholders, including the business community, government agencies, and the media. He acknowledged the media’s crucial role in disseminating information and fostering understanding about tax obligations.
“As we embark on this New Year, I wish everyone a prosperous and fulfilling 2024. Together, let us work toward a stronger and more economically vibrant Gambia,” Darboe concluded, expressing his heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders for their unwavering support.
The head coach of the Gambia National Team, Tom Saintfiet, has defended his selection of clubless player Sulayman Marr and long-term absentee Yusupha Bobb, stating that he chose experience over young players because his team has not been playing the way he wanted in recent games.
Speaking to the media in Jeddah, Tom said he could have picked young and inexperienced players who are playing regularly for their respective clubs but opted for players with experience for a more profound understanding of his game. These players include Sulayman Marr, who is without a club, Yusupha Bobb, who has been without a club for over a year and recently signed for a second-tier club in Morocco, and Ebrima Darboe.
“I could have selected young players who are playing regularly with small experience and yet to play for us, but I decided to go for players with experience who have not played much. Yusupha Bobb played four out of eight qualifiers in AFCON 2021. Sulayman Marr was part of this qualification, and Ebrima Darboe played five out of the eight qualifiers. In the last twelve months, we didn’t play as we wanted, so this is the reason these players are back with us because of their experience,” Tom said.
According to Tom, he is yet to publicly announce his squad because he wants to surprise his opponents to weaken them.
“I did not want to reveal my squad because I wanted to surprise our opponents to be more dangerous,” he explained.
The Gambia national team is currently in Jeddah for some technical preparations ahead of their departure to the Ivory Coast on the 10th of January.
The Scorpions will face neighboring Senegal on the 15th in the first-ever SeneGambia derby in the senior Africa Cup of Nations.
Ahead of their second appearance in the Africa Cup of Nations, the Scorpions of The Gambia are currently in camp in Saudi Arabia with a mysterious full squad list of players. Tomorrow is the deadline for the submission of the final list of players to the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Gambia is among the only countries, if not the only country in the competition, without a published final list of players to represent the country in Ivory Coast next week for the continent’s biggest football competition.
In the early hours of yesterday, some players landed in Jeddah. As per the photos shared by the Gambia Football Federation, 17 players are in camp, including the surprise inclusion of Yusupha Bobb, who recently signed for a second-tier club in Morocco after being clubless for over a year, as well as Sulayman Marreh. Ali Sowe, who has, in the recent past, been in and out of the squad, is pictured with the team in camp.
The head coach, Tom Saintfiet, said that he will unveil the final list on January 9, a day before the team flies to Ivory Coast. A source close to the camp revealed that the selected players are the only ones in camp, and there will be no new additions. While the whole country awaits the final list of players, here are the names of the players seen in the picture posted by the GFF.
The Gambia is expected to fly to Ivory Coast on January 10 and will be based in Yamoussoukro for the first two group matches. The team will open the group stage game against defending champions and neighbors, Senegal, on January 15.
The first photos released by GFF from the Scorpions camp in Saudi Arabia have shown the following players: Modou Jobe, Baboucarr Gaye, Lamin Sarr, Bubacarr Sanneh, Muhammed Sanneh, Saidy Janko, Dawda Ngum, James Gomez, Alasana Manneh, Hamza Barry, Ebrima Darboe, Sulayman Marreh, Yusupha Bobb, Alieu Fadera, Bambalie Sanyang, Ali Sowe, and Ablie Jallow.
Certainly, Captain Omar Colley, Yankuba Minteh, Assan Ceesay, and Musa Barrow are expected to join the camp.
In this edition of The Fatu Network Exclusive, we showcase Amie Bojang, a young woman who confronted the challenges of unemployment caused by the coronavirus pandemic and successfully established herself as the owner of a Design & Printing Company.
Amidst the coronavirus pandemic, Amie’s journey as a printer began when she was compelled to leave her position as a secretary at ACE, a printing company.
Like many others affected by the pandemic, Amie found herself jobless and decided to venture into a new endeavor as a printing agent.
During this time, she sustained herself by taking on small contracts that involved collaboration with different printing companies.
“While working at the printing company during the coronavirus crisis, my boss asked me to stop due to slow business,” Amie explained.
After three weeks of inactivity, she took matters into her own hands and started offering printing services on a smaller scale.
Whenever someone needed T-shirts, Amie would assist by taking their requests to West Field and printing the required designs.
Drawing on the basics of designing that she acquired during her time as a secretary, she would create designs at the printing studio in West Field and take them home for pasting using a local iron, despite acknowledging that this process was slow.
Motivated by her determination to succeed, Amie then took further steps towards success by applying for a higher position at a prominent construction company called GIGO Construction.
While waiting for a response to her application, Amie began making face masks for people, including handing out masks with GIGO Construction’s logo, which caught the attention of the company’s CEO.
Impressed by her work, the CEO contacted Amie to inquire about the designer responsible for the masks.
When she admitted that she had created them, the CEO gave her a sample of a reflector and helmet to design and print for the company.
The young designer revealed that after delivering the sample to GIGO’s office, she was asked to design and print one hundred reflectors and helmets.
During her struggle to kickstart her business, Amie resorted to having her project work printed at a studio in West Field.
Gradually, she saved some money to purchase her own printing machine, a heat press.
As a result, Amie successfully established her own design and printing company, known as Amie Bojang’s Design & Printing (AB Design & Printing Company).
One of her initial significant contracts was with GIGO, consisting of eight billboards in Basse.
Amie recounted her endeavor to find a suitable location for her printing company, which eventually led to her constructing a workspace in her own house.
Presently, Amie has a thriving business with contracts from various companies, supported by a team of five employees.
“Our team includes a welder, a graphic designer, and a person who specializes in making paperbacks…,” Amie shared with The Fatu Network.
However, despite her success, Amie now faces new challenges such as the deliberate destruction of her work by unknown individuals.
“With the increasing recognition and reputation of my work, some people have begun to destroy my billboards in locations like Mobile Traffic and Banjul,” Amie lamented.
The destruction of her billboards in Mobile Traffic and Banjul has occurred multiple times, revealing the adversity Amie faces as she tries to make a living.
Amie expressed her distress at such actions, emphasizing the harm it causes not only to her but also to the trust placed in her by her clients.
“It’s disheartening to have people trust you with their work, only to see it destroyed. I am a struggling young woman trying to make ends meet, and these individuals are making it harder for me,” she shared with emotion.
Amie’s primary concern revolves around how her valued customers will perceive these malicious acts.
“Imagine someone placing their trust in you and entrusting you with their work, only to have others destroy it. It is truly painful. I implore anyone engaged in these malicious acts to cease their actions, as they go against what is right,” Amie pleaded.
Her ultimate aspiration is to expand her business and create more job opportunities for the younger generation in her country. Furthermore, Amie aspires to serve as an inspiration for others who are driven to achieve success.
Rohey Malick Lowe, the Mayor of Banjul City Council and President of RAFELA Africa, has extended a New Year message to Banjulians, party members, councillors, and all those who showed support in 2023.
According to the BCC female mayor, the New Year is a moment for reflection, particularly on the individuals who offered their support throughout the year.
“I am extremely grateful for your constant presence and assistance. I couldn’t have achieved this without you.
I express my sincere appreciation for your unwavering support and prayers during these challenging times.
I am thankful that you were always there for me,” she stated in a statement.
The Mayor of BCC additionally expressed her gratefulness towards Banjulians, as they entrusted her with the position of mayor, making her the first female mayor in Gambia’s history and the first mayor to be re-elected in the capital city.
“My sole desire is to contribute to the development of Banjul as a modern city.
I also extend my gratitude to the members of my political party, especially Team Rohey Malick Lowe, for their unwavering faith in me,” she added.
She acknowledged the hard work of the BCC council members and staff in the advancement of Banjul, saying “thank you” for their support and valuable contributions to the growth of the institution.
Furthermore, she expressed her utmost gratitude to her family members for their belief in her and continuous support.
Mayor Lowe also extends her message of appreciation to all mayors, REFELA members, and local and international partners.
“I offer a million thanks to my husband, who stands by my side every step of the way, ensuring that everything is accomplished as expected and even surpassing expectations.
Wishing everybody a Happy New Year. May 2024 bring peace, joy, happiness, and prosperity,” she concluded.
