Rohey Lowe on Thursday launched an initiative aimed at realising 100,000 face masks to be distributed to Gambians for free amid the coronavirus pandemic.
‘Operation 100,000 Masks’ was launched at an event held Banjul City Council grounds attended by stakeholders from various institutions, BCC staff, civil society actors and a cross section of Gambians.
The mayor of Banjul said: “The Banjul City Council with its meagre resources has done its quota and will continue to do so. Since March, we have contributed immensely in the fight against this deadly pandemic.
“Those of you who may or are asking what has the government done for the council in its fight against the pandemic, I wish to make it quite clear that government has not in any way to our efforts at council level. Meaning we have not received any funds from government to keep the citizens of Banjul safe.”
The mayor insisted she cannot sit down and watch saying, “people are dying on a daily basis not only from Covid-19 but from cancer, diabetes, hypertension and other related diseases”.
“Our hospitals are overwhelmed with patients and the situation continues to be very bleak,” she added.
The mayor is banking on support from compatriots in the diaspora to ensuring the 100,000 face masks initiative is achieved.
She said: “As I launch the ‘Operation 100,000 Masks’ I call on you my brothers and sisters in the diaspora to join me and take up this challenge.”
“Therefore, I called on the Diaspora, GDHI and all associations in the Gambia and abroad to join in this crusade and I wish to thank each and every one of you for your thoughts on our beloved city,” she said elsewhere.
The mayor had earlier on called on Gambians to set their differences to one side and team up against coronavirus.
“I want to take this opportunity and call on all to put aside our differences whether political or otherwise and save our nation as I intend with your support to provide 100,000 face masks for needy Gambians,” she said.
