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Kenebaring Jarju Kunda Accuses Physical Planning of Grabbing Their Lands Without Compensation

By: Alieu Jallow

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.

BAC to continue work despite governor’s instruction to stop

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By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

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.

GRA’s Yankuba Darboe Reflects on 2023 Achievements and Unveils Reforms for 2024

By: Seringe ST Touray

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.

We Didn’t Play As We Wanted,” Tom Defends Selection of Club-less Player

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

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.

Scorpions Get in Camp with a Mystery Squad

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

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.

TFN Exclusive: Navigating COVID-19 Hardships to Establish a Design & Printing Company

By: Dawda Baldeh

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.

Mayor Lowe Extends New Year Message to Banjulians

By: Dawda Baldeh

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.

BAC Saga: Council’s Lack of Access to Accounts Halted Effective Operations for Two Weeks, But…

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

The Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Brikama Area Council, Lamin Singhateh, has stated that the council has not been able to provide any services for two weeks due to its decision to pass a resolution to suspend and remove the Chief Executive Officer and the Finance Director. This decision has prevented the council from accessing its bank accounts, resulting in a halt to council services and staff being unable to receive their November-December salaries.

The PRO informed The Fatu Network that the council’s resolution to dismiss the CEO, Modou Jonga, and Finance Director, Modou Jeng, based on alleged abuse of office and incompetence, coupled with the Ministry of Local Government and Lands’ refusal to cooperate in changing signatories on their accounts, has brought their operations to a standstill, with staff not receiving pay for two months.

He told TFN that the accumulation of waste and garbage at the Brikama Market is a direct consequence of the council’s inability to access its accounts. Singhateh said, “The mess of garbage within centers like Brikama Market is a result of the Council not providing any services for two weeks. This is simply because we cannot have access to our funds at the bank.”

A month ago, the Brikama Area Council passed a resolution to suspend the Director of Finance for multiple financial malpractices and the Chief Executive Officer pending an investigation into their practices, as they were signatories to the council’s bank accounts.

However, after the council attempted to change signatories following the resolutions to suspend the duo, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Local Government and Lands advised against it. Singhateh mentioned that the council did not trust the duo, who were under investigation, to retain access to the accounts.

This has resulted in the council being unable to conduct operations effectively.

Currently, piles of garbage have been dumped at the entrances of Brikama Market, leading to a slowdown in business for some female market vendors.

“We have pending salaries for the months of November and December; none of our staff has been paid for these months. But it is not that we don’t have money; the funds are enough to cover both November and December salaries and also sustain our services effectively,” he told TFN.

In a surprising turn of events, the council held an emergency meeting last week to explore possibilities of resolving the situation hampering council operations. After the meeting, they decided to grant Modou Jonga, the CEO accused of incompetence and misconduct, access to the funds. Since the Finance Director’s suspension was approved by the local government, the Finance Manager will now be an alternate signatory to the account.

Staff salaries and the resumption of services are expected next week at the Brikama Area Council.

Waste in Brikama Market: Market Vendors Decry Lack of Sales

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Some market vendors stationed at the entrance of the Brikama Market, where piles of garbage are dumped, say the sales of their goods have drastically gone down due to the presence of the garbage for days. This has caused inconvenience for many customers trying to buy their goods, affecting their small businesses.

These market vendors, who sell onions, sorrels, bitter tomatoes, and other spices at the entrance of the Market around the Brikama Bus Station, urge the Brikama Area Council to consider their plight and clear the garbage dumped around where they sell.

“I am concerned about my goods. Nobody is coming to buy them. Everyone is passing with masks because of this waste that is being dumped and left here. My goods are hardly bought now. It is affecting me and many others because if our goods remain here for more than a day, they will get destroyed,” Nyima TOURAY, a vegetable vendor, told The Fatu Network.

Nyima called on the Brikama Area Council to consider their businesses and the health risk and clear the waste dumped there.

Fatou Drammeh, a single mother who depends on the sales of her goods to take care of her children at home, says she is now running out of profits because her goods are being left with the pile of waste dumped in the vicinity of their seats where she sells. She called out the Brikama Area Council to come and clear the waste because they pay their daily taxes.

“Brikama Area Council should come and clean this. We are really suffering here with my business. I am running out of profit because of this waste. I bought these goods today for D400, but since in the morning, I have not sold to more than five customers, unlike before. If I were these customers, I would not come here and buy because of the waste that is being dumped here. This is not even good for our health,” she noted.

Fatou Mbye and Binta Bojang all echoed similar concerns and urged the responsible authorities to act and solve the issues affecting them as market vendors.

The Fatu Network understands the stand-off at the Brikama Area Council administrative office, which is affecting operations.

Barra Residents Commend Ghanian ECOMIG Troops for Voluntary Community Services

The residents of Barra in the Lower Nuimi District are commending the Ghanaian troops serving in the ECOWAS mission in Gambia, known as ECOMIG, for their voluntary community services. These services include cleanup exercises, donations, free medical assistance, and the rehabilitation of worship centers such as mosques, among others.

The residents express their gratitude to the Ghanaian troops for their continuous engagement in community services. They highlight the troops’ efforts in cleaning up the environment, particularly the garage area, which was previously dirty and inconvenient to live in.

“We are grateful to the Ghanaian troops serving in ECOWAS stationed in Barra. Our garage is very clean today because of their exercise, as it was very dirty and inconvenient to live in previously. We cannot thank them enough for their generosity to us. They could’ve ignored it like those in the garage who make it dirty, but they chose to clean it for us,” said Adama Cham, ‘Chef De Garage’ of Barra.

The residents appreciate the generosity of the troops and acknowledge that a clean environment is essential for their well-being. According to the villagers, the troops’ intervention goes beyond cleanup exercises.

“They have also undertaken the renovation of buildings at the garage, which were in a delicate state. All these services are provided free of charge, and the residents have developed a good relationship with the Ghanaian troops,” Cham added.

The Vice President of the Garage Association, Ousman Jobe, praises the troops for their sincerity and positive influence on the lives of the community members. He expressed their joy and gratitude for the troops’ intervention and cleanup efforts.

“We will take responsibility for maintaining the cleanliness of the garage, and we appreciate the troops’ care and concern for our community. The presence of the Ghanaian troops in Barra has significantly improved our lives over the years,” Jobe said, adding that the foreign troops have established a good reputation within the community. This cleanup exercise is just one example of the many activities undertaken by the troops to strengthen their relationship with the local community.

Over 147 People Have Been Internally Displaced from the Cassamance Region

By: Alieu Jallow

In the aftermath of intense gunfire in southern Cassamance by Senegalese forces, more than 147 individuals have been forcibly displaced and are currently seeking refuge in Kanilai, Bwiam, and neighboring villages in Foni.

A report from the National Disaster Management Agency data collector reveals that two men from Gikess Dandon were traumatized after a brief arrest by Senegalese soldiers. The report further indicates that shells landed in their villages, prompting them to flee for their lives, leaving behind animals grazing on their harvested crops.

“They ran away to their neighboring village seeking refuge, with no food and no comfortable places to sleep.”

The report also states that most children felt sick as a result of the heavy shelling, which frightened them during the unexpected invasion.

As previously reported by the Fatu network, food and shelter remain significant challenges. Regional data collectors from the National Disaster Management Agency emphasize that blankets and medications are urgently needed by the internally displaced persons (IDPs) as well as the host families.

These numbers are expected to increase as heavy shelling continues, with Foni preparing to receive more IDPs.

Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) Faces Threat of Losing Business Without Adequate Investment

By: Dawda Baldeh

The Managing Director of the Gambia Ports Authority (GPA), Ousman Jobarteh, has informed journalists that the Gambia port is at risk of losing business in 2023 if no investment is made, citing challenges such as congested port areas.

He provided a comprehensive overview of various developmental activities, challenges, and success stories from January to November 2023 during a press briefing aimed at updating journalists on the progress made by GPA and their plans for 2024, with a particular focus on improving service delivery quality.

“We have observed a growth of 7-18% in cargo volume handled at the port, excluding the coronavirus period. New players have entered the market, and our transit business has grown by 102% within three years. This necessitates addressing capacity constraints, leading to the commissioning of a new master plan by an international consulting firm. The forecasts from 2019 to 2023 indicate that the port business has outgrown the facility, posing a threat of losing business without necessary investments,” he explained.

Jobarteh emphasized the improvements achieved through a performance contract that sets target areas for the institution, including financial and service delivery aspects. He revealed GPA’s implementation of digitization mechanisms to enhance the system, reduce human interference, and promote accountability and efficiency.

Acknowledging challenges in handling increased sea traffic, Jobarteh highlighted the development of a master plan to expand areas such as the existing Getty, container terminal, and digitalization. The plan also includes the relocation of the port to Sanyang to accommodate a larger volume of ships, addressing the current limitation of handling only two ships simultaneously.

Efforts to combat delays and congestion at the port were discussed, with Jobarteh mentioning stakeholder engagements and collaborative measures with institutions like GRA. He reported significant improvements, reducing ship waiting times from fourteen days to less than five days between September and December.

Jobarteh noted that approximately 80% of goods entering the Gambia are transported to third countries through transit or cross-border export trade. Additionally, he addressed the impact of congestion at the port in Banjul, leading to a diversion of cargo intended for the Gambia to other countries in 2021 and 2022, resulting in low growth in sea traffic.

The press briefing covered various other issues addressed by port officials.

Gambia Secures Millions of Dollars In International Support to Boost Governance & Resilience

The Government of The Gambia has achieved a milestone in its pursuit of sustainable development with a substantial budget support injection of $40,500,000, $6,700,000, and €12,000,000 from international partners—the World Bank Group, African Development Bank, and the European Union, respectively.

In a press release issued by the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs, the funding is strategically allocated to advance key initiatives aimed at fostering improved governance, bolstering fiscal resilience, and instigating transformative reforms in public financial management. This support is a testament to the collective commitment to fortify The Gambia’s economic foundation and uplift the lives of its citizens.

Highlighting the breakdown of the financial support, the press release outlines the contributions from the esteemed international partners as follows:

  • World Bank Group: $40,500,000
  • African Development Bank: $6,700,000
  • European Union: €12,000,000

The international community’s recognition of The Gambia’s efforts in fostering sustainable development and addressing multifaceted challenges is underscored by these substantial contributions. The funds are strategically channeled to facilitate comprehensive public financial management reforms, strengthening social protection systems to alleviate poverty, and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

The key focus areas for the utilization of the budget support include:

  1. Governance Enhancement: Initiating robust reforms to enhance governance structures and promote transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public administration.
  2. Fiscal Resilience: Implementing measures to fortify the country’s fiscal resilience in the face of economic uncertainties, ensuring a stable and sustainable financial environment.
  3. Social Protection Systems: Strengthening social protection systems to reduce poverty and enhance the well-being of vulnerable populations.
  4. Climate Change Mitigation: Implementing strategies to address and adapt to the impacts of climate change, fostering environmental sustainability and resilience.

The Government of The Gambia expresses its gratitude to the World Bank, African Development Bank, and the European Union for their unwavering support and partnership in advancing the nation’s development agenda. This collaborative effort is poised to create a positive and lasting impact on the lives of the Gambian people, marking a significant step towards a more prosperous and resilient future.

Senegalese Soldiers Reportedly Opened Fire in Kantimba in the Casamance Region

By: Alieu Jallow

Senegalese soldiers stationed in the southern region of Cassamance reportedly opened fire in the village of Kantimba on Thursday, December 28th. According to residents, the soldiers entered their village and began firing in the open forest, causing women and children to flee for their lives.

Last year, the Senegalese military launched an operation against the Movement of Democratic Forces of Cassamance (MFDC) in retaliation for a skirmish between the two sides a month and a half ago, resulting in four deaths and the capture of seven Senegalese soldiers serving in the ECOWAS mission in The Gambia.

Nyima Jammeh, a resident of Kantimba, stated that the soldiers entered the village, set up their machine guns and tanks, and started firing without informing the residents. “They started firing, with some shells falling in our homes, so we had to flee with our children. When my husband asked why they were firing without informing the Alkali, they continued firing nonstop, leaving the entire village smoky. I had to put my child on my back and run, leaving with some fatigue. We don’t even have anything to eat or clothing to change aside from what we ran away with,” she decried. She emphasized that they can’t afford breakfast for today, and their situation is dire.

Sunkaru Badjie, a wife to the host families, mentioned that they arrived late at night when she was about to serve dinner. She had to serve that to the children and cook another pot of food for the elderly. “We had to leave our beds for some of them, use mats and our bedsheets for others for a place for them to lay their heads. The situation at home is very dire with us here.”

Another displaced person, Fatou Bojang from Kantimba, shared, “We were on our normal business until yesterday evening when the soldiers barged into our village and started firing their tanks. Some of our people had to run naked without any clothing. We had to leave everything behind without clothes and food, and we are appealing for support in terms of feeding and clothing as we came with nothing absolutely.”

The unfinished battle between the Senegalese army and the Movement of Democratic Forces of Cassamance (MFDC) in the southern region of Senegal seems to have resumed, as residents complained of heavy shelling in the past days. These internally displaced persons are currently lodged in the former hometown of the President in Kanilai.

’14 pitches’? GFF says FIFA’s report is misunderstood

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By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

The Gambia Football Federation has said that the report released by FIFA on their use of the $11.4M FIFA forward fund support to member associations from 2016-2022 has been misunderstood by many.

According to the report, the GFF has built 14 football pitches, but the federation told The Fatu Network that it is working on organising a press conference to provide a detailed explanation and understanding of the report to the public.

The report on the FIFA Website that the Gambia Football Federation has built 14 football pitches, has raised eyebrows.

However, when The Fatu Network reached out to the federation for their response regarding the funds that were reported to have been spent on constructing football pitches. The Federation clarified that the public had misunderstood the situation and that they would be addressing the public to provide a better explanation of what has been published on the FIFA website.

This, the federation said, is contrary to the perception that many have expressed on social media.

The Federation further highlighted to The Fatu Network that its relationship with FIFA is strong because of its judicious usage of what is meant for football development.

Yesterday, The Fatu Network reported that many football fans and stakeholders are in shock following FIFA’s report on its website that The Gambia Football Federation (GFF) has used $11.4M (about D718,200,000) of the 2016-2022 FIFA support fund to build and renovate 14 football pitches across the country, leaving many Gambian football enthusiasts questioning the integrity of the GFF, and describing the report submitted by the Federation to the World Football Governing Body as misleading.

The Gambia Football Federation is expected to face the public on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, to explain the situation.

Tragic Gas Tanker Explosion in Totota, Liberia: 40 Lives Lost, 30 Injured in Crash and Deadly Fire

By: Seringe ST Touray

A gas tanker crash in Totota, Liberia, resulted in a tragic explosion, claiming the lives of at least 40 people, with an additional 30 sustaining injuries.

The tanker, carrying gasoline, overturned and fell into a ditch, leading to a deadly explosion as locals gathered. Reports indicate that some individuals attempted to collect leaking gas, exacerbating the situation.

Eyewitnesses describe people climbing on the truck to access the fuel, despite warnings from the driver. The incident has left 36 critically ill patients, including children and a pregnant woman, according to a health officer from Bong County. Authorities are still gathering information on the total casualties.

“There were lots of people that got burnt. For now, we hold the number of deaths at 15,” said Prince B. Mulbah, deputy inspector general for the Liberia National Police, in an initial report.

‘Pure fabrication’: Football fans, stakeholders say GFF’s 14 pitches FIFA report is misleading

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By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Many football fans and stakeholders are in shock following FIFA’s report on its website that The Gambia Football Federation (GFF) has used $11.4M (about D724,356,00) of the 2016-2022 FIFA support fund to build and renovate 14 football pitches across the country, leaving many Gambian football enthusiasts questioning the integrity of the GFF, and describing the report submitted by the Federation to the World Football Governing Body as misleading.

According to a FIFA report, the GFF communicated that it has constructed 14 football pitches of natural and artificial grasses and renovated one playing field from the FIFA Forward Fund meant to support member federations.

Reacting to this report on the FIFA website, Abdoulie Bah, a renowned football commentator journalist, questioned the integrity of some key members of the federation, whom he believed would have fabricated the report.

“And you wonder why there is one man trusted by GNOC, by GFF heading every serious delegation, projects or made Chef De Mission to every Olympic mission to balance the books and fabricate false reports like these to lazy and worse corrupt international bodies such as these? The Kaba Bajo I know doesn’t have this capacity; is both a football layman and a finance novice. Sometimes I don’t blame him a lot; he uses his diplomatic skills to strike deals only for swindlers to water down the drain.

Why the heck is everybody in that country scared of mentioning two people; Beatrice Allen and Bakary Jammeh for their woeful failures, blatant malpractices, threats and dictatorial faces?” he questioned.

Momodou Gajaga, another football zealot and a multiple award-winning sports journalist, said the report is a fabrication.

“14 pitches in the Gambia?

“This is a pure fabrication. Two artificial pitches, Banjul KG5 Mini Stadium and Brikama Box Bar Mini Stadium, are being renovated. Serekunda East Mini Stadium is the sole grass pitch that has been restored. Manjai Football Park has only had its outer fence restored. Whoever handed FIFA this report is deceiving them because it is far from reality on the ground,” Gajaga said.

Aside from the renovation works at the Brikama, Serre Kunda East, Manjai, Serre Kunda West, Banjul and Bakau mini-stadiums, the GFF began working on the Gunjur and Busumbala mini stadiums, which are still far from being completed for over 3 years now.

On the 4th of December, the GFF reported that a delegation from FIFA, led by Fatou Camara, a FIFA Development Manager and a FIFA Infrastructure Consultant and others, successfully completed a four-day assessment and evaluation of works in the country.

According to the Federation, Fatou Camara and the team, expressed satisfaction with work on the projects because the GFF aligned on its agreed roadmap for the completion of infrastructure projects going forward.

The Fatu Network contacted the Director of Communications at the Gambia Football Federation for his reaction on the construction of 14 football pitches as reported on the FIFA website, but he couldn’t comment. He directed us to the GFF Project Liaison Officer, who was unreachable for comments at the time of going to press.

GDC Administration Accuses Former Campaign Manager of Double Standards

By: Dawda Baldeh

Ebrima Nyang, Administrative Secretary 1 of the opposition Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC), has accused the former National Campaign Manager, Momodou Cham (also known as Mc Cham Junior), of playing double standards.

Nyang’s response came after a Senegalese politician, Dam Mboge, and a supporter of PASTEF visited The Gambia. During this visit, Mc Cham claimed that he was expelled by GDC for supporting the embattled Senegalese politician Ousman Sonko, the leader of PASTEF.

Nyang stated that Mc Cham’s claims were not true and clarified that Mc Cham was invited by the PASTEF Gambia chapter to attend one of their political activities. According to Nyang, PASTEF introduced Cham as the National Campaign Manager of GDC, implying that Gambia was rallying behind PASTEF. Nyang further emphasized that GDC has no issue with Mc Cham attending the event, as he has the right to associate himself with any political party.

“Mc Cham is playing double standards and hiding the truth because he knows what had happened. The endorsement of PASTEF by Mc Cham raised suspicions among many, leading them to question whether GDC had officially endorsed Ousman Sonko’s candidacy,” he claimed.

Nyang clarified that political parties with similar ideologies may form a memorandum of understanding in line with their party constitutions, even if they are from different countries, and may share ideas during election times. He stated that GDC had made a press release to clear the air and assert that they have no agreement with Ousman Sonko’s party. He expressed disappointment in Mc Cham for “not telling the truth” and making false allegations against GDC, despite no such accusation being made by the party.

Nyang questioned when Mc Cham was expelled by GDC, as he officially tendered his resignation on March 16, 2023, which was accepted by the party. According to Nyang, GDC did not accuse Mc Cham, but the press release was issued to clarify that the party did not assign him to attend the event. Nyang stressed that GDC cannot have an endorsement with any other party and hide it, as transparency and accountability to the public are essential.

“Mc Cham’s response to the GDC press release, calling it useless, was disrespectful to the party and its members. Mc Cham was suspended because he acted against the party’s constitution and he is not the first GDC executive member to be suspended,” Nyang asserted. He expressed disappointment with Mc Cham’s comments, emphasizing that he should have respected the party and its leadership.

The Fatu Network reached out to Mc Cham for comment, and he confirmed that he had an issue with his former party because of Ousman Sonko, which he told the Senegalese politician Dam Mboge. However, he denied Nyang’s claims and accused him of seeking cheap popularity.

“I was invited to a fundraising event organized by the party of Pastef, a Senegalese political party led by prominent opposition, Ousmane Sonko on Sunday at Sukuta, in the West Coast region, and GDC sees that as an endorsement,” he clarified. The former GDC campaign manager further said that he was disappointed in the executive committee of his party for not inviting him for questioning before releasing a press statement disassociating itself from a comment he said he had never made. Mc Cham stated that he has moved on from the past and holds GDC in high regard, which is why he has refrained from speaking against the party.

“Man’s On a Mission to Unlock Poverty Code, Not Dress Code” – Ghetto Pen

By: Dawda Baldeh

In the poem “Don’t Question My Dress Code,” Ebrima Jallow, also known as The Ghetto Pen, sheds light on the way society judges individuals based on their attire.

“No time to impress, man is on a mission to unlock the poverty code,” The Ghetto Pen said in his poem.

Jallow, a second-year law student, and poet at the University of The Gambia, dedicates this poem to highlighting how people in his country often prioritize appearances over assessing an individual’s potential contributions to national development.

Jallow emphasizes that he sees fancy clothing as a personal choice that varies among individuals.

He clarifies that his primary mission is to overcome poverty and make a difference, rather than seeking to impress others through expensive attire.

By expressing this sentiment, Jallow challenges the prevailing notion that one’s dress code is a measure of their worth or abilities.

Through his poem, Jallow aims to encourage society to look beyond superficial appearances and focus on the qualities and skills individuals possess.

He advocates for a more inclusive and accepting society that values individuals based on their character, actions, and ability to contribute positively to the community.

MY DRESS CODE

Don’t question my dress code, Don’t frown at my dress code,
Don’t devalue, degrade or decide for me my dress code,
This’s The Ghetto Pen, Mr.
Peace and Love with some motivational quotes,
Why do you judge people based on their dress code?

No time to impress, man is on a mission to unlock the poverty code,
By hook or crook, even if am to paddle my own boat,
My dress code isn’t a breach to the criminal code.
My dress code will not lose you a vote,
You always gossip negatively about my dress mode.
But I always ignore and switch to sleep mode.
Opt for a drink of WHISKEY and Ill opt for SMOKING DOPE,
I’ll opt for the rags, you opt for your suit and coat,
Book and street education, make sure you can do both.
Only ghetto youths will understand that it’s not an easy road.
I’m going to bed hungry, so I can’t fake with expensive clothes,
I’ll dress with what I’ve and what comforts me, and let them judge me
Based on my dress code.

Author: Ebrima Jallow

BAC Saga & Garbage in the Market: JS Sanneh Calls On Council to Consider Electorates

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Amid the administrative standoff between the Councilors and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the former aspirant for the Brikama Area Council chairmanship election, Ibrahim JS Sanneh, said the Council should consider those who elected them. Dumps and waste continue to be visible at the Market, risking the health conditions of many.

Some parts of the Brikama main garage and some other entrances to the market are littered with waste, leaving market vendors exposed to the health risks associated with the pile of garbage in the market.

Speaking to The Fatu Network, Ibrahim JS, former candidate for the Brikama Area Council Chairmanship election, said the Council and the government should end their dispute and consider the interests of the people who entrusted them to serve. He stated that there is plenty of garbage almost everywhere in the market.

“As things unfold between the central government and the Brikama area council, my people are experiencing terrible environmental issues. There is numerous garbage everywhere, especially in the market area. This is totally uncomfortable; it is time for both parties to come to terms and end this suffering. Pride and ego will not take one anywhere; both have to understand the magnitude of their respective offices by considering the people who voted them into those offices. This is not a game; enough is enough. As the saying goes, when two elephants fight, the grass suffers,” he told The Fatu Network.

The visibility of the piles of waste and garbage is believed to be continuously left there since after the recent saga between the Council and its CEO, which resulted in the Police detaining more than half of the elected councilors. During his Meet-the-People’s-tour meeting in Brikama, President Adama Barrow and his Tourism Minister, Hamat Nk Bah, both expressed that Brikama is dirty and implored on the Yankuba Darboe-led Council to clean the town.

According to JS Sanneh, he will mobilize young people in the town to embark on a massive cleanup at the market because he doesn’t know when the garbage collection or cleaning impasse will end.

“I’m hereby calling for a massive mobilization of the youth of Brikama and beyond to intervene, organize a cleaning exercise to rescue our people. We can’t wait any longer because we do not know when the fight will be over. I will summon a meeting with my group and also reach out to other youth groups to select a day to commence the cleaning exercise.”

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