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

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

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.

The Split

Hadram Hydara
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The Split

OPINION

By: Momodou M. Cham, Berending Village (Lower Niumi )

In the intricate dance of politics, trust can be a fragile thread easily severed. The split captures the poignant moment when alliances fracture, revealing the bitter truth of political betrayal. As ambitions clash and loyalties shatter, the fissure serves as a stark reminder of the complex dynamics that define the world of power and politics.

The political stage witnessed a stunning betrayal when the esteemed political science lecturer, once a staunch supporter of his party’s ideology, chose to abandon ship. His departure sent shockwaves through the political circles, leaving many questioning the authenticity of political allegiance. The lecturer’s ideological somersault not only raised eyebrows but also highlighted the fickle nature of political loyalties.

In an unexpected twist, a political commando known for unwavering commitment found himself navigating uncharted waters. Instead of standing by his party, he took an unconventional route, aligning himself with a political bus driver lacking the requisite license. This unexpected partnership left observers baffled, prompting contemplation on the blurred lines between loyalty and opportunism in the political arena.

As the political landscape evolved, a striking development unfolded – a mayoress from the opposition party appeared to gravitate towards the grey political party, the very faction her brother championed. This familial shift across party lines added another layer of intrigue to the already tumultuous political narrative, further blurring the boundaries of loyalty and raising questions about the true motivations behind such alliances.

In the aftermath of these betrayals, the political arena resembles a mosaic of fractured alliances and shifting loyalties. The notion of loyalty in politics becomes an elusive concept, as individuals who were once considered stalwarts of their respective parties now find themselves on opposing sides. The betrayed party faithfuls grapple with the disillusionment brought on by those they once held in high esteem.

As the dust settles, a poignant question lingers in the air: Who is truly loyal in the realm of politics? The betrayals and unexpected alliances serve as a testament to the transitory nature of political allegiances. In this ever-changing landscape, the search for unwavering loyalty becomes a quest fraught with uncertainty, where alliances can crumble as swiftly as they are formed, leaving behind a fractured political landscape that mirrors the complexities of human nature.

Hold on to your adage “national interest ” because brown envelopes have never been a national interest.

SPOTLIGHT: Raki Jallow: Amplifying women’s voices through writing

Hadram Hydara
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SPOTLIGHT: Raki Jallow: Amplifying women’s voices through writing

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Raki Jallow, a gifted storyteller, who has always been passionate about books since an early age, has over the years honed her craft and transformed herself into a remarkable author who uses her platform to amplify the voices of women through literature. With three published books under her belt, Raki has recently launched two new books: “Because I Am A Woman” and “A Bright Light Switched Off”. Both of these books explore themes and issues that are often overlooked when it comes to women’s experiences in society. Raki’s writing sheds light on these important topics and provides a platform for women’s voices to be heard and understood.

Born in Njawara Village in the North Bank Region of The Gambia, to parents who were both teachers, Raki’s love affair with books began at an early stage in her life. She began writing short stories after being inspired by her love for books, eventually leading to the publication of her first book in 2007.

“What stimulated my appetite to write is my early interaction with books. I grew up with parents who were both teachers, and I started reading storybooks when I was still a child. That was how I grew up scribbling short stories which, I thought, were not lengthy enough to be in a book. I eventually wrote my first novel (SALLYMATA) when I finished high school in 2007, which was published in 2020 and launched in 2021,” Raki told The Fatu Network, recalling her threshold into the literary fray.

‘SALLYMATA ‘is the title of her maiden book, which was published a decade after writing the book. Being a daughter of teachers, Raki developed a huge interest in reading at a tender age, from which she began writing.

On the 16th of December, this year, Raki launched two other books, a novel and a play, capturing the struggles and challenges of women, using the cap of a women’s spokesperson through her writings.

Her play, “A Bright Light Switched Off”, highlights the consequences of early marriage in society. The book was originally performed on stage by students at the Ebunjang Theatre before it was adapted into a published form.

The novel, “Because I am A Woman”, captures different perspectives of women’s stories and what they go through in their marriages and societies.

According to her, the motivation behind writing and publishing these two books is because women hardly talk about their stories because of social restrictions and stigma.

“What motivated me to write these books is the fact that there are certain issues women hardly talk about because of the fear of being stigmatized. I have the belief that writing those stories down makes their voices heard, and their problems may have possible solutions,” she explained.

Writing in The Gambia comes with various challenges, demotivating many bright young writers. This comes from insufficient financial support and the low rate of a reading culture among Gambians. As a result of this, writers hardly make a fortune from their books.

According to Raki, her first novel was launched in 2021 but due to low sales, copies are still with her. This is a challenge that can discourage many young writers.

The young writer is not throwing her pen anytime soon, as she anticipates continuing writing and amplifying the voices and stories of women through writing.

Senegal Supreme Court Decision

Hadram Hydara
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Senegal Supreme Court Decision

OPINION

By: Musa Bassadi Jawara

I write to urgently plead with President Macky Sall, to enforce the Supreme Court ruling that allowed Mr Ousman Sonko of PASTEF to participate in the February 2024, presidential elections. It’ll be a travesty and subversion of the Senegalese constitution if the Supreme Court ruling is ignored and brushed under the carpet.

The rule of law is the cornerstone of a flourishing democracy of any nation and sine.quo.non to the restoration of economic and social cohesion. For the executive branch of a nation to make a blatant disregard of the ruling of the judiciary, opens the Pandora’s box of constitutional crisis and may threaten the peace and stability of society as a whole.

President Macky Sall, please do the right thing and abide by the Supreme Court ruling that paved the way for Mr Ousman Sonko’s candidature in the February 2024 presidential poll. Dr Martin Luther King Jr. reminded us that “time is always right to do what is right.”

In the final analysis President Sall, when we peel away the legal and political mumbo jumbo, let the Senegalese people deliver the verdict on Mr Ousman Sonko and, there is no opportune moment and platform than the February 2024 presidential poll.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Letter to Momodou Sabally

Hadram Hydara
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Letter to Momodou Sabally

By: Amadou Camara

Warmest greetings to you Sabs, I hope you, your family and loved ones are wonderfully well. I am obliged to send you a message, an attaboy, to stiffen your spine, following your decision to change political party. By doing so, you have put country before party; Gambia before individual; people before puerile politics; and the national interest before narrow interest. It’s the bloody right thing to do. Politics, said Otto Von Bismarck, one of the most consequential figures in history, “is the art of the possible.” By nailing your political mast on the apron string of the ruling NPP party, you have demonstrated traits that distinguishes you from the many: that you are a pragmatists; as opposed to being a purist; that you are idyllic as opposed to being an ideologue; that you are a utilitarian determined to do more for the common good in power, as opposed to a utopian crowing and carping on the sidelines of politics. You are on the right track.

Tony Blair, Britain’s ex-Prime Minister (one of my modern political heroes, as you well know), famously took head-on certain section of his party – the hard left, who were diametrically opposed to his politics and policies – when the Labour Party was in opposition in the 90s. “Power without principle”, he told them in an impassioned conference speech, “is barren, but principles without power is futile.” This justifies your decision. You are in politics to gain power and change lives and livelihoods, not to be an ad infinitum, bordering on the ad nauseam, protest movement. The former are the history makers, the change markers. The latter are the histrionics, and the historical footnotes.

You are an incredibly talented, intelligent, clever, indefatigable, creative, and innovative man. It is best for Gambia that you will now channel these qualities to help The Gambia succeed. John Maynard Keynes, the eminent economist, famously said that: “when the facts change, I change my mind.” You are a rational man. Whatever facts that led you to change your mind, stick with them. And know it is difficult. Sort of like carrying a Ming verse on a slippery floor. Because, Emmanuel Kant, the German philosopher, have people like you in mind when he said, “the free and the rational escape the empire of expediency by doing what is right.”

I know you are a well-intentioned, perspicacious and development-driven man. And that is all what counts. Political parties, said Winston Churchill, as like horses in a race. Your target is always to hop on the best and fastest horse to win at a canter. This from a man who defected from the Conservative to the Liberal party, back to the Conservative Party, and became the most important figures in the 20th century. The Gambia, Africa and the world, is for you to wow and woo, with your archetypical virtuoso Saballian flourish. As Churchill used to say to his troops when their energy is flagging, and their motivation to fight on is sagging: KBO (keep buggering on). Keep in mind that immortal stoic Latin phrase: sustine et abstine (meaning bear and forebear. Acknowledge the pain but trod onwards towards your task). Victory will be yours!

Former UDP Campaign Manager Momodou Sabally joins NPP in Dramatic Move

Seringe Touray
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Former UDP Campaign Manager Momodou Sabally joins NPP in Dramatic Move

Momodou Sabally, the campaign manager for the United Democratic Party (UDP), resigned yesterday to join President Adama Barrow’s ruling National People’s Party (NPP).      Momodou Sabally: “As of today, I am one hundred per cent committed to the National People’s Party [NPP]”.                                                                                                                    NPP is President Adama Barrow’s ruling party. Until he cross-carpeted, Sabally was a staunch critic of the Barrow administration.

Empowering Democracy: A Review of Nurturing Sovereign Citizens by Halifa Sallah

Hadram Hydara
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Empowering Democracy: A Review of Nurturing Sovereign Citizens by Halifa Sallah

By: Fatou Janneh, Madison, Wisconsin State

In his recent book, Nurturing Sovereign Citizens: Lessons on Sovereign Citizenship for Democratization, Peacebuilding & Development (2023), Halifa Sallah explores the complex processes involved in enhancing a country’s democracy and fostering peace. Reflecting on the introduction of electoral districts during the colonial era, the book illustrates their impact on the governance of the nation. Sallah’s analysis spans from colonial rule to achieving republic status, examining The Gambia’s transformative journey towards democracy, wherein the people have a more substantial role in decision-making. The narrative encompasses the highs and lows of The Gambia’s path to republicanism, highlighting the challenges encountered in constructing a more democratic and peaceful society. A significant focus of Sallah’s analysis is the Inter-Party Committee (IPC), a group that played a key role in shaping Gambia’s politics. He describes the different stages the country went through in its quest for self-determination, giving readers a closer look at the struggles and successes along the way. Through this book, readers get to see how Gambia’s history and political choices have influenced its path to becoming a more democratic and peaceful nation. Sallah’s writing encourages readers to think about the common challenges many countries face in trying to build a fair and participatory society.

The central theme running through this book is the close relationship between sovereign citizenship, democratization, peacebuilding, and development. According to Sallah, how well citizens are instilled with these values significantly determines a country’s progress. The book argues that the republic serves as the cornerstone for self-directed development that encompasses everyone, leaving no one out. This emphasizes the significance of equal power and involvement of sovereign citizens, ultimately resulting in a state built on strong social unity that cannot be easily changed, attacked, or dissolved. The book reveals that a republic creates a “foundation for self-determined development that includes all and excludes none” (p. 193), highlighting that equal exercise of power and participation of sovereign citizens eventually leads to “a state based on social cohesion that is unmalleable, unassailable, and indissoluble.”

This book, Nurturing Sovereign Citizens unfolds its narrative through a well-structured framework consisting of five chapters. In Chapter One, he discusses the genesis of The Gambia’s democratization, shedding light on the challenges faced under the 1970 Constitution and the transformative events of 1994. Chapter Two intricately explores the restoration of democratization and peacebuilding, providing insights into the reasoning behind this process and the pivotal role played by the Constitutional Review Commission. Moving forward, Chapter Three meticulously examines diverse perspectives on the 1996 Draft Constitution, offering a comprehensive analysis of its various facets and delving into the outcomes of the 1996 Referendum.

Chapter Four takes a closer look at the challenges encountered by political parties, elections, and dialogue, illustrating the cyclical nature of progress and setbacks in the realm of political activities. Finally, Chapter Five directs attention to the Gambia Opposition for Electoral Reform (GOFER) and Inter-Party Committee (IPC) institutions designed for democratization and peacebuilding. This chapter navigates through the opposition’s demands regarding IPC and emphasizes the measures taken to safeguard its vitality during the critical period spanning from 2016 to 2017. Through this carefully crafted structure, the book thoroughly explores The Gambia’s democratization journey, offering a nuanced understanding of key historical events, challenges, and transformative processes in the pursuit of democratic governance and peace.

The book sparks a worldwide conversation about the often-underestimated importance of sovereign citizenship, criticizing the prevalent emphasis on state sovereignty rather than the sovereignty of the people. It issues a cautionary message about the possible outcomes of neglecting the development of sovereign citizens, suggesting that the emergence of non-state actors like mercenaries could result in global disorder. For example, Sallah vividly illustrates instances of global disorder that disrupt world peace and security. The book highlights international incidents spanning from West Africa to Europe and America, notably the September 11, 2001, attack on New York City’s Twin Towers. Similarly, the book narrates the storming of the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, amid the congressional session to certify the 2020 presidential election results. The events during this incident included the violation of offices and the expression of hostility, resulting in casualties, including the death of a police officer on duty at the Capitol. Also, it sheds light on the attack on the presidential palace in Bamako on May 21, 2012, when demands were made for the resignation of interim president Traore.

The book earnestly endeavors to launch a global conversation on the crucial theme of sovereign citizenship, which serves as the foundational underpinning of the Republic. Sallah contends that this aspect has been notably sidelined in contemporary discussions, where the focus has overwhelmingly fixated on state sovereignty, neglecting the equally vital sovereignty of the people. Despite this prevailing oversight, the author argues that the Republic’s very existence is intricately tied to the manifestation of the sovereign political will of its citizens. This expression can take the form of direct engagement or the election of representatives with the consent of the governed. According to the author, this particular characteristic positions the Republic as the epitome of democratic governance.

He, however, posits that the disregard for this aspect has had profound consequences. It suggests that this negligence has resulted in a paradigm shift where citizens are relegated to the role of government servants rather than the government functioning as a servant of the people. Therefore, the narrative suggests that governments have been able to act without being held accountable, leading to the impoverishment and conscription of citizens into wars. In contrast to this detrimental scenario, the book argues that emphasizing the values associated with sovereign citizenship is paramount. By doing so, the narrative argues, societies can work towards the promotion of democracy, peace, and development. In essence, the book serves as a call to reevaluate the discourse surrounding the Republic, urging a shift in focus toward the active participation of citizens in shaping their governance and fostering societal well-being.

Overall, Sallah’s Nurturing Sovereign Citizens offers a thought-provoking examination of The Gambia’s trajectory and underscores the significance of empowering its populace within the contemporary political landscape. The book serves as a compelling call to action, aiming to heighten awareness regarding the pivotal role played by nurturing sovereign citizens in the ongoing quest for democracy, peace, and development. Sallah’s narrative not only delves into The Gambia’s specific journey but also seeks to convey broader implications for global discourse. By highlighting the importance of nurturing sovereign citizens, the book advocates for increased attention to this aspect on a global scale. It emphasizes the preventative nature of such awareness, aiming to avert potential consequences such as global disorder and the empowerment of non-state actors. In doing so, the work contributes to the ongoing dialogue on the intersection of citizen empowerment, democracy, and global stability, urging readers to consider the broader implications of these themes in contemporary geopolitical settings.

Fatou Janneh

Madison, Wisconsin State

[email protected]

 

 

TFN TODAY- Monday, Dec 18th, 2023

Seringe Touray
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TFN TODAY- Monday, Dec 18th, 2023

TFN TODAY- Monday, Dec 18th, 2023

First Lady Fatoumata Bah-Barrow Presides Over

Seringe Touray
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First Lady Fatoumata Bah-Barrow Presides Over

Back home, First Lady Fatoumata Bah-Barrow inaugurated a Women Empowerment and GambiFood Processing Center in Kerr Jarga. Built by the Maa Foundation with UNFPA funding, the project aims to boost rural livelihoods and empower women economically and politically. Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe praised the initiative for addressing challenges faced by vulnerable women. CEO Fatoumata Jawara expressed gratitude for support, and UNFPA Representative Ndey Rose Sarr emphasized its importance. The ceremony included a tour showcasing innovative methods for efficient food processing to enhance regional food security.

VP Jallow presides over permanent secretaries’ retreat

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VP Jallow presides over permanent secretaries’ retreat

Vice President Muhammed BS Jallow led a retreat for permanent secretaries in The Gambia, emphasizing the government’s development plan. He urged them to learn from past retreats and enhance oversight in project implementation. Minister Bouye emphasized empathy and dedication, highlighting the impact of decisions on future generations. The three-day retreat will cover strategy development and review of the 2023 second quarter.

Road Cleanup Project

Hadram Hydara
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Road Cleanup Project

OPINION

By: Momodou Ndow

Those who have lived or traveled abroad know that certain activities require a permit in the West.

For example, you cannot sell on the streets without a permit. Lage len Modou Modou yi. Sayu neka nyu reetay len in New York.

Cities in general have laws that are enforced to keep the city clean, organized, and in order. Even if you want to extend your house or build a structure in your backyard, you have to have a permit and the structure will be inspected to make sure the necessary standards are met.

Different areas in the city or town can only be used according to zoning laws that regulate development. Certain areas are designated for residential, commercial, parks, and other purposes. There is a place for everything, and this helps the city keep things neat and orderly. Motah fee mbeda yi dunge dey tilim ak jahasor. Keeping things in order is crucial for development.

Unlike fofu nonu, where everything goes, nothing is in the proper order. We have laws in place, but they are never enforced. As a result, the entire dayka mungee tilim beh parey chokup. If you say it, nyuneh yow hamulor sa bopa wala danga fuk neh lee wala laa. When you complain about it while there, some will tell you “bayil nyu sunge dayka bi deh” wala nyu hall la bote yu bon. They sometimes act as if njome njor morm dayka bi, just like Goloh used to do.

For decades, people have been allowed to encroach on public space and erect lulen nehh, littering the entire landscape with all sorts of makeshift structures. They will leave all their garbage behind there and go home at the end of the day. Next day, the same thing. Year in and year out, the numbers of vendors keep multiplying too. This is how Pipeline binge dan chow became a marrseh beh guy yi di jai jahatou ak naytaytu si bunti banks yi. Borri Turntable ak Brikama waheh nopi. Ebay beh noring nay komung!

There will always be a cost associated with development everywhere, and that cost is inevitable. Laws must be enforced, and sacrifices must be made. It’s about time for us to stop wasting time on politics and focus on the task at hand. In order to turn things around for the next generation, we must make the necessary sacrifices. It’s clear that our current situation is not sustainable.

That said, I hereby condemn the foul attitude of certain members of the demolition crew towards the vendors. You can work within the confines of the law without being abusive. Power and authority can be handled with grace. No need to get kufang. Although you’re doing your job, it’s important to have understanding and empathy.

The arrival of President Adama Barrow from the 64th ECOWAS Summit

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The arrival of President Adama Barrow from the 64th ECOWAS Summit

The arrival of President Adama Barrow from the 64th ECOWAS Summit

Governor Bojang Leads Talks Between Women Gardeners Of Faraba Kairaba And UTG

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Governor Bojang Leads Talks Between Women Gardeners Of Faraba Kairaba And UTG

Governor Bojang Leads Talks Between Women Gardeners Of Faraba Kairaba And UTG

Sukuta -Jabang Shooting’ He told me he shot them’ Anti- Crime boss tells High Court

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Sukuta -Jabang Shooting’ He told me he shot them’ Anti- Crime boss tells High Court

Sukuta -Jabang Shooting’ He told me he shot them’ Anti- Crime boss tells High Court

President Barrow Reiterates Gov’t Commitment In Stadium Renovation To Meet CAF Requirement

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President Barrow Reiterates Gov’t Commitment In Stadium Renovation To Meet CAF Requirement

President Barrow Reiterates Gov’t Commitment In Stadium Renovation To Meet CAF Requirement

Fortune faces Greater Tomorrow in derby cracker

Hadram Hydara
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Fortune faces Greater Tomorrow in derby cracker

Fortune Football Club will play away this afternoon in Brikama against struggling Greater Tomorrow in what is expected to be a thrilling West Coast Derby in The Gambia Football Federation Division One League.

The two teams are in different positions in the league. Fortune is sitting in the top four, while Greater Tomorrow, just like last season, is struggling at the bottom three.

However, this game does not recognize league standings as the two teams renew regional rivalry and battle for supremacy in the West Coast Region.

Greater Tomorrow started the league brightly with a win in the opening game but has since been struggling to win games. Last week, they were trashed by Falcons 3-0 at the Serre Kunda East Mini-stadium.

Meanwhile, Fortune Football Club seems to have found its footing in the league once more with back-to-back wins in the last two games. The Petroleum Boys won all their three matches played at the Brikama Mini-stadium this season.

The game promises to be a cracker with so much at stake for the two teams.

In the other game today, Bakau giant killers, Steve Biko, will host the Falcons. Both teams won their last games, designing this encounter to be a nail-biting contest.

At Serre Kunda East, Samager will face inform Marimoo side. Marimoo have won their last four games, putting pressure on Champions Real de Banjul. A win for Marimoo Pakfood today will put them on the same point as Real de Banjul.

In Banjul today, records league champions, Wallidan will welcome Bombada FC at the KG5 Mini-stadium. Wallidan will hope to redeem their derby defeat against Real de Banjul last week against the Brikama-based Bombada Football Club.

GFF first division week 5 round up: Real trash Wallidan, Greater Tomorrow sinks, win for Fortune, Marimoo 

Hadram Hydara
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GFF first division week 5 round up: Real trash Wallidan, Greater Tomorrow sinks, win for Fortune, Marimoo 

By: Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

On Saturday, Real de Banjul, the reigning champions, showcased a remarkable performance against their traditional rivals, Wallidan FC, in the ongoing GFF league. The star player, Alasana Yirajang, proved to be the game-changer as he displayed individual brilliance which helped his team secure a decisive 3-1 victory, continuing their winning streak of five straight games. Meanwhile, Fortune FC maintained their invincibility at home this season with an impressive 1-0 win over Samger, thanks to Mustapha Jallow’s goal.

The Gambia Football Division One League continues to produce thrilling and cracking games. In week five of the league, a total of 15 goals were scored.

The weekend’s football games kicked off on Friday at the Brikama mini-stadium. Fortune Football Club maintained their unbeaten record at home with a 1-0 victory over Samger. The Petroleum Boys have now won three league matches out of five, all of them played at Brikama. The game was decided by a sublime header from Mustapha Jallow in the 15th minute.

Meanwhile, at the Serre Kaunda East stadium, Falcons thrashed struggling Greater Tomorrow by scoring three stunning goals to nil. Greater Tomorrow’s woes in the league continue as they sink further into the relegation zone.

At Yundum, Marimoo spanked BST Galaxy by two goals to one to put pressure on Real de Banjul at the top of the league standings.

On Saturday, Team Rhino and Brikama United played each other to a goalless draw in a lacklustre match. While The Gambia Armed Forces lost to Waa Banjul by a goal to nil.

In Basori, Alasan Yirajang scored a hat-trick as Real de Banjul trashed traditional rivals, Wallidan by 3-1.

On Sunday, Bombada recorded their second win of the season with a two-nil win over TMT.

In Banjul, Steve Biko defeated Banjul United by 2-0.

After week five, Real de Banjul are showing no sign of bowing out in their quest to retain the league title with a hundred percent winning streak. They sit on top with 15 points, followed by Marimoo with 12 points. Team Rhino sits third with 11 points, followed by Fortune FC at 4th with 10 points.

Record winners, Wallidan sits at the bottom with just two points. Greater Tomorrow are second from the bottom with 4 points. Above them is town rivals, Brikama United with 5 points.

Urgent Call for Action: Prioritizing Youth Welfare and Addressing Irregular Migration in The Gambia

Hadram Hydara
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Urgent Call for Action: Prioritizing Youth Welfare and Addressing Irregular Migration in The Gambia

OPINION

By: Ebrima Dembajang, Fourth-Year Development Major, University of The Gambia

Recent devastating incidents involving the loss of 40 lives from The Gambia at sea have shocked and saddened the nation.

It is high time for the government to take immediate action and prioritize the welfare of its youth.

This tragic event highlights the urgent need to address the push factors that drive irregular migration.

The loss of 40 lives at sea is a heartbreaking reminder of the risks faced by Gambian youths in irregular migration.

It demands immediate attention and action from the government.

The incident underscores the need to address the root causes of irregular migration and create opportunities for young people within the country.

The Gambian government must prioritize the welfare of our youth population as they are the future of the nation.

This includes investing in education, skills training, job creation, and mental health support.

By providing opportunities and support systems, the government can empower young people to contribute to the development of their communities.

It is crucial to address the push factors that drive irregular migration.

Poverty, lack of employment opportunities, and limited access to quality education are factors pushing Gambian youths on this dangerous journey.

The government must create an enabling environment that addresses these issues and provides viable alternatives to irregular migration.

I equally want to tell the central government that elections are over, and it is time for work.

The political rivalry and hatred the government continues to express towards the Brikama Area Council do not help us develop.

The rivalry and sabotaging of the Council’s work must stop. It is time for both entities to set aside their differences and prioritize the development of the West Coast Region.

Cooperation and collaboration are essential for effective governance and the implementation of policies that benefit the local population, especially the youth.

The tragic incident involving the loss of 40 lives at sea has served as a wake-up call for The Gambia.

The government must take immediate action to prioritize the welfare of its youth and address the push factors that drive irregular migration.

It is time for the nation to come together and work towards creating a brighter future for its youth, ensuring that they have opportunities to thrive within their own country. The time for action is now.

OPINION: The Govt/BAC tussle – No one stands to benefit

Hadram Hydara
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OPINION: The Govt/BAC tussle – No one stands to benefit

By D. A. Jawo

The ongoing war of nerves between the Brikama Area Council (BAC) and the central government is certainly happening to the detriment of the people of the West Coast Region and The Gambia at large and it should never have been allowed to degenerate to that level because it is neither in the interest of the council nor even that of the central government.

It however appears that both the BAC and the central government care more about scoring political points against each other than the consequences of their actions on the people of the West Coast. While there is an element of intransigence on the side of the BAC, particularly its chairman, Yankuba Darboe, but it is also quite evident that the central government, through the Ministry of Lands and Regional Governments, are using their power and the police to achieve their political objectives, which is to paralyze the BAC and drive a wedge between the people and its chairman and eventually make him unpopular and ineffective.

It appears that we are witnessing a repetition of what earlier happened at the Kanifing Municipal Council when a similar situation arose between the former CEO Sainabou Martin-Sonko and the KMC in which the central government again played a negative role by taking sides in favour of the CEO. Rather than investigate the allegations against Ms. Martin-Sonko, the government gave her full support at every level, insisting on her reinstatement and even went to the unprecedented extent of breaking the door to her office at the KMC to ensure that she resumed work regardless of all the evidence that the KMC produced to back their claims against her.

Just like the case of the KMC, the Brikama Area Council has also made similar accusations against their CEO and the Finance Director, Modou Jonga and Alhagie Jeng, producing enough justification for calling on the government to remove the two officials for alleged corruption. However, instead of acting on that evidence to thoroughly investigate the allegations, the government did exactly what they did in the case of Ms Martin-Sonko, by giving unqualified support to CEO Jonga and Finance Director Jeng, calling on the BAC to allow them to carry on with their work despite all the evidence of corruption that the BAC alleged against them.

If indeed the government was committed to fighting corruption, the least anyone would have expected them to do was either redeploy the two officials to other areas or send them on administrative leave and launch a thorough investigation into the allegations. However, the very fact that the government seems to have completely ignored all the allegations of corruption against them and instead give their full backing for them to continue working with the council is a serious indictment of the government’s lack of political will to fight corruption. This is certainly not going to be music in the ears of our development partners some of whom are quite concerned about the apparent rise in corruption within the government.

It is quite obvious that the government does not seem to have any intentions to help the BAC to fight corruption but instead, they seem to be using the situation to paralyze the activities of the council, regardless of the consequences to the people of the West Coast Region and the country at large.

We have all been witnesses to the overwhelming evidence of wanton corruption coming from the Commission of Inquiry into Local Government Councils and most of the corruption is being directly attributed to the government-appointed officials, particularly the CEOs and the finance directors of the different municipal councils. Therefore, the attitude of the government to such allegations of corruption against these officials at the BAC is quite indicative of the apparent lack of will to fight corruption.

What was the point of setting up the Commission of Inquiry into Local Government Councils when the government has not shown any commitment to fighting corruption? Even the very fact that the famous Anti-Corruption Bill had been languishing at the National Assembly for more than two years now without any commitment on the part of the government to get it enacted, while they had the audacity to send the Former Presidents Bill to the National Assembly under a certificate of urgency and get it passed in less than a week, is a clear indication that fighting corruption is not their priority.

From what we have heard so far from the Commission of Inquiry into Local Government Councils, apart from the municipal councils themselves being the bedrock of corruption and mal-administration, the other institutions that have come out quite poorly from the inquiry include the Ministry of Lands and Regional Governments and the so-called ‘independent’ Local Government Service Commission, which is anything but independent. The Ministry, instead of effectively playing its role as the policy arm of the local councils, was not only trying to directly micro-manage them, but it had also been usurping the role and powers of the Local Government Service Commission, thus making that commission quite irrelevant and ineffective.

Let us hope and pray that both the government and the BAC would realise that the only sensible way forward is through dialogue and comprise so that the council’s activities will continue rather than being paralyzed for purely political reasons, benefiting no one in particular.

SPOTLIGHT: Assan S. Ndure: Transforming the face of football in The Gambia

Hadram Hydara
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SPOTLIGHT: Assan S. Ndure: Transforming the face of football in The Gambia

By Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

From the streets of Barra in the North Bank to Farato Village in the West Coast Region, Assan S. Ndure, a determined young entrepreneur, had once aspired to become a renowned footballer. However, fate had other plans for him. Unfazed by his failed football career, he decided to channel his passion for the sport in a different direction, and that is how he founded the Fortune Football Club. Today, his club has become a harbinger of change in the football scene of The Gambia, with both male and female teams making remarkable strides.

Assan’s commitment to the club is evident in the massive investment he has made, which has transformed the lives of many young footballers by providing them with a platform to pursue their professional careers. Fortune Football Club is widely regarded as one of the most structured, organized, and motivated football clubs in the country today, with its positive impact on the sport being felt from the streets of Barra in the North Bank to the Farato Village in the West Coast Region.

The Beginning of a Young Football Administrator

Assan’s love for football started in the streets of Barra in the North Bank Region, where he was part of the Barra Football Academy. This academy was established by Jane Joof in 2003 and played a significant role in nurturing his love for the sport. Although his football career as a player couldn’t expand beyond the grassroots level, he took up the responsibility of running his father’s business in Farato.

As he grew old, his father handed over the family’s business to him. This marks the beginning of his quest to transform the lives of many talented players in football. The move gave birth to Fortune Football Club.

“When I was young, I wanted to be a footballer. But coming from a business family and the oldest son in the family, I couldn’t go further as a player. So, I shifted my dream from being a professional footballer to being a club president that will change the face of football in the country,” Assan told The Fatu Network, recalling the beginning of shifting into football club management.

The Birth of Fortune Football Club

On the 7th of December 2012, the young and ambitious businessman made a bold decision that would change the course of his life permanently. He decided to take his love for football and his passion for helping young people and establish a football club that he named Fortune Football Club. This football club has since become a household name and is celebrated in the annals of football history in the country.

Assan, the founder of Fortune Football Club, since the 2012 Nawettan in Farato, has always had a passion for football. He saw the need to create a team that would provide a professional path for many young people, and he was determined to make it a reality. This decision was not an easy one, but he remained steadfast in his quest to establish a team that would be much talked about today.

“When I moved to Fararo to take care of my dad’s business, I used to play for a team. But unfortunately, that team had some issues and they stopped playing in the Naweetan. That was the time I invited my friends and formed a team to play in the Naweetan.

“It actually began as just fun. Then three years later, after winning everything in the Brikama Naweetan, the vision of the club started changing. We took part in the regional third-division qualifiers, and played the league, to the second division and the first division. This happened just in two years,” he told TFN.

At the age of 34, Assan is the youngest club owner in the topflight of Gambian football, massively investing in football and player development.

Result of Massive Investment in Football: From Just Fun to Transforming Lives

Assan realized that football is an investment. Aside from the daily training, football requires finance to have the tools that win you trophies and export players.
In the 2018-19 season, when the team reached the top tier of Gambian football, a lot had changed. Apart from investing money, Assan implemented an intriguing player development project, which has resulted in the team producing players for every national team football category in the country. Not only that, but the team has also been exporting players for a professional football career.

“As a person, I have learned a lot in the game. I have discovered that there is more to this game than just playing. I have tarred a progressive path for myself and my team that has been helping us in all facets, both on and off the pitch. Having finance as a team is good, but having finance and a bright direction makes the difference and that is what is behind the success of this team in just 11 years. We have a direction and that is where everyone sees us heading.”

In their third year in The Gambia’s first division, Fortune Football Club — affectionately called the Petroleum Boys — won the league in 2021.

After winning the league in 2021, Fortune, with Assan’s vision and insatiable quest for more success, backed the team and registered them in the CAF club Champions League preliminary, where the team faced notable African champions, ES SETIF of Algeria. In the first leg in Banjul, Fortune stunned the whole continent with an emphatic 3-0 thumping of ES Setif at the Independence Stadium before losing to a penalty shootout in the second leg in Algeria.

A Vision Beyond the Corridors of The Gambia

To Assan, participating in the preliminary was just the threshold for his dream of making Fortune a giant in African football. He has his heart set on the continent, making his club one of the biggest clubs in Africa in the near future.

“The vision is for this team to only produce players for professional development or career, but to compete beyond the borders of this country. We want to compete in the club’s Champions League in the very near future. We are working on it, every time,” the ambitious club president explained.

Establishment of a Female Club

Assan does not only own and finance the male team, but he also finances a female team, which is participating in the women’s second division league, making him among the very few individuals funding both male and female teams in the Gambia Football Federation Leagues. In 2018, Assan saw the need to establish a female team and play a role in helping young girls realize their dreams in the game.

“Female football in the country is evolving. We are aware of it, that is why we are investing in that too,” he said.

“I have no doubt that in the future, women’s football in the country will be massively followed. We aren’t waiting for that, we are planning ahead and we shall be there,” he stated.

Testimony of Players

Karamba Gassama, a young Gambian player currently playing in the Albanian top-flight league, never imagined being a professional player at an early age. However, through fate and the vision of Mr. Assan Ndure, Karamba became a professional footballer.

“Assan did a lot for me. He told me that he would make sure that I became a professional footballer and it happened. What he did for me and many other young players who are now professional is incredible. Thanks to his effort, I am now taking care of my family as a sole breadwinner,” Karamba explained.

Tijan Marr, a former captain of the National U20 team who now plays second division football in Spain, described Assan as a rare breed in Gambian football.

From 2018 to date, Fortune Football has produced 14 players who represented the Gambia in the U17, 20 and U23. Recently, two players from the female team also represented the Gambia in the female U15 tournament played in Mauritania.
The team can now boast of over 10 players who passed through the team and now playing professional football in the 5 years that the club spent at the top-level of Gambian football.

Plans to Build a Stadium with a Hotel

Branded as one of the finest football administrators in the country, Assan is striving to establish a standard football field for the team that will be used as a centre for youngsters who will become national icons in the game. Part of his plan is to have a hotel in the stadium. Already, he has landed in Farato, the home of his team.

A young man with a massive dream, Assan has been a shining light in football development in the country. Through his love and investment, he has helped many footballers who are now playing professional football.

He is dedicating his time to transforming and developing footballers. In his executive capacity, Assan works with only young people, creating employment for them.

He has won the respect of many football administrators in the country.

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