His Excellency President Adama Barrow in exercise of the powers conferred on him under Sections 71(1) and 71(3) of the Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia, has appointed Mr Ousman A. Bah as Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, effective today, 24th June 2022.
Continue Reading >>Baba Hydara , son of the slain journalist Deyda Hydara has on Tuesday testified in the ongoing trial of a former member of Ex-President Jammeh’s hit squad Bai Lowe in Celle, Germany. Baba is one of the Plaintiffs in the trial of the former patrol team member. Bai Lowe is accused of being a member of the hit squad, known as the Junglers, between 2003 and 2006 and has allegedly participated in the assassination of opponents of former President Yahya Jammeh, including the murder of Deyda Hydara a journalist of the AFP news agency and Co-founder of Gambia daily The point Newspaper . Lowe is accused of crimes against humanity, murder and attempted murder including helping to stop Hydara’s car and driving one of the killers in his own vehicle.In a lengthy and cross-cutting testimony Baba discussed the history and content of the point newspaper where his father worked as well as his dedication to press freedom, Democracy and good governance. Baba explained that his late father had two columns in the newspaper called "Good morning Mr President and the Bite" where he wrote on issues of national concern and socioeconomic development. This according to Baba never went down well with the former president as he received several threats from the corridors of power. The witness also discussed the killing of his father, his family's reaction to the news of the murder and the subsequent difficulties endured by his family including financial and, educational challenges. He also detailed the psychological trauma as well as security threats his family encountered after the killing of his late father. He disclosed that no formal or impartial investigation was launched on the assassination of his father by government. However, the international Journalists network Reporters without Borders carried out some investigations and put pressure on government to investigate the matter. This he said led to government issuing a partial report tarnishing Deyda's reputation. The witness also discussed his understanding of the patrol team, the assassination of his dad, Dawda Nyassi and the attack on Ousman Sillah. He stressed that he never wanted to discuss the assassination of his father with anyone because it disturbs him. Baba also said that everything he knows about the work of the Junglers and murder of his dad came during his time with Gambia's victims center. The presiding judges also asked clarification on whether Ida Jagne and Isatou Jagne refer to the same person who was in the car during Deyda's assassination and the witness said he knows only Ida Jagne and not Isatou. The plaintiff's lawyer Dr Patrick Kroker asked about the Junglers who returned from Equatorial Guinea and the witness explained that they were arrested, charged and taken to court and later discharged. The witness said government intended to shut down the Point Newspaper and threatened Pap Saine, the co founder of the paper. Baba Hydara urged the government of the Gambia to ensure the implementation of the TRRC recommendations saying accepting them alone is insufficient. He expressed his commitment to fight for justice for his late father and other victims of ex-president Jammeh and his hit squad. He called for the swift prosecution of the perpetrators. The father-of-four, late Deyda Hydara worked as a Gambia correspondent for Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and was considered a doyen among journalists in the West African state. The court Presided by a panel of five judges is adjourned to Thursday 30th june 2022.
Continue Reading >>After 2 years, the Global media forum is back. The programme brings together hundreds of journalists in an interdisciplinary approach to tackle current issues shaping the way journalists do their work in a changing world. This years theme on “Shaping tomorrow now” comes at a time the world is going through a poly crisis, from the Covid-19 pandemic, wars and conflict to imminent issues overlooked in the coverage of Africa. Experts in media, science and related disciplines share perspectives on journalism in war times, the difference between activism and journalism, climate change to stories relevant to local realities. Participating journalists shared insights on the engagements and the importance of bringing journalists together in such a conference after 2 years of being apart. Most of the journalists come from countries affected by the many issues dominating news coverage, it still does not solve the inequalities they face. This breeds the question of how news is covered and who is covering. However there are key takeaways that resonate with those at the frontlines One thing that speakers addressed is for Editors to check on the well-being of their reporters. That despite the efforts of journalists to bring forth stories that matter even when that means risking their lives and comfort, they are first humans with emotions and families.
Continue Reading >>The trial of a former member of ex-President Jammeh’s hit squad continues in Celle, Germany. Bai Lowe is accused of being a member of the hit squad, known as the Junglers, between 2003 and 2006 and has participated in the assassination of opponents of former President Yahya Jammeh, including a journalist of the AFP news agency, Deyda Hydara. The suspect, identified as Bai Lowe, is accused of crimes against humanity, murder, and attempted murder, including the 2004 killing of longstanding AFP correspondent Deyda Hydara, who was also co-founder of Gambian independent daily The Point.Lowe, arrested in Hanover in March 2021, appeared in court on Monday in the nearby town of Celle as witnesses testified at the court. one of the witnesses who testified on Monday was Mr. D’Angelo. Mr. D’Angelo worked for the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees and conducted the second hearing in Bai Lowe’s asylum procedure. The goal of the second hearing was to establish whether there was a sufficient need of protection in order to grant asylum. Mr. D’Angelo used the protocol from the hearing to prepare his testimony. He recalls that Bai Lowe was in the military as a soldier and that Bai Lowe told him he signed up voluntarily in 2003. He showed Mr. D’Angelo some military certificates and He was a member of the Patrol Team. His function was to be the driver. He also recalls some of the issues he discussed with Mr Lowe during his Asylum interview including his time in the army, the patrol team, the people he work with in the team and his subsequent imprisonment among other things. the other witnesses who testified on Monday was Bakary Sanyang a Gambian based in Hannover Germany and a friend to Mr Lowe. He explained their time together in Germany and issues they had previously discussed in relation to the work of the Junglers and activities participated by Mr Lowe during his time with hit squad. He discussed how he helped him settle in Germany and his involvement in the killings of Deyda Hydara, Dawda Nyassi, Haruna Jammeh, Macy Jammeh, and Daba Marena as well as the attempted murder of Ousman Sillah among other torture crimes by the Junglers. Sanyang also explained his previous discussions with the accused on the members of the hit squad headed by Tumbul Tamba. This the witness said included Sanna Manjang, Malick Jatta, Modou Jarju alias Rambo, Fansu Nyabally, Alieu Jeng, Kawsu Camara, Bora Colley, Pa Sanneh, Nuha Badjie, solo Bojang, Michael Correa, Saikouba Jarjue and Saul Badjie Among others. The trial is “the first to prosecute human rights violations committed in The Gambia during the Jammeh era on the basis of universal jurisdiction” which allows a foreign country to prosecute crimes against humanity, war crimes and genocide, regardless of where they were committed.The Junglers unit was used by the then-president of Gambia to carry out illegal killing orders, among other things” with the aim of “intimidating the Gambian population and suppressing the opposition,” according to federal prosecutors.
Continue Reading >>The Khalif General of the Niassen brotherhood His Eminence Sheikh Muhammadul Mahy Niass has commended the President for his untiring efforts in enhancing peace and brotherhood between The Gambia and Senegal. The Spiritual head of the Niassen brotherhood was speaking at State House during an audience with The Gambian leader. This is his first visit since ascending the highest post in the Niassen brotherhood and seeks to follow the footsteps of his predecessors by meeting his Talibehs or followers and the country's leadership. The President H.E Adama Barrow thanked the Sheikh and his delegation for what he called a special occasion. He said religious leaders have a big role to play in fostering peace and unity on the continent, expressing believe that they will complement the efforts of governments in this direction. Commenting on the state of Senegal Gambia relations, President Barrow said he will continue to work with President Sall to take relations to the highest level possible, describing the two countries as one people with shared values and history.The President finally pledged to leave a legacy of peace and development that stand the test of time, adding such are the values that define good leaders. He however urged the Khalifa General to continue praying for the country, its people and leadership, describing prayer as a powerful tool. Speaking earlier, The Khalifa General His Eminence Sheikh Muhammadul Mahy Niass expressed gratitude to the President for granting him audience, commending him for his religious steadfastness. He urged African leaders to work together to resolve conflicts on the continent, citing his recent visit to Sudan in an effort to end the war in Darfur. The Sheikh also noyed with appreciation the marked improvement in relations between The Gambia and Senegal, attributing it to the efforts of the two leaders, whom he said have a shared vision of peace and good neighbourliness. The Senegalese High Commissioner to the Gambia H.E Basiru Saine heaped praises on the leadership of the two countries for building such unbreakable bonds of friendship and brotherhood, describing it as a classical example of African integration. Imam Muntaha Faye described the meeting as historic. We have good relations with The Gambia, and this is set to continue in to the future, the Imam added. The High Representative of the brotherhood in The Gambia applauded the efforts of the President in promoting the relationship between The Gambia and Senegal, drawing comparisons with the first president Jawara who warmly welcomed the founder of the Niassen brotherhood in The Gambia. He described the Khalifa General as very humble, who has dedicated his life to scholarship and service to humanity The Khalifa General and delegation is expected to grace a massive religious conference later in the evening where he will dialogue with his followers as is customary.
Continue Reading >>The President H.E Adama Barrow Friday received in audience the Secretary General of the Organisation of Islamic Conference Hissein Brahim Taha at the State House. The OIC boss is in The Gambia for discussions with Gambian officials on the preparations of the upcoming OIC summit to be held in The Gambia. Mr Taha arrived in The Gambia Thursday evening to assess the state of preparedness for the hosting of the OIC summit later this year.Speaking to reporters after his audience with President Barrow, Mr Taha reaffirmed the OIC member states' full support for The Gambia's hosting of the summit. During his stay in The Gambia, the OIC boss will visit project sites within the Greater Banjul Area to see first hand the level of preparedness. Currently the OIC in partnership with government is constructing the 50km dual carriage highway from the airport through the bertil harding to the Kairaba Avenue and a VVIP Presidential lounge at the airport.
Continue Reading >>The inspector general of Police Abdoulie Sanyang has ordered the relocation of three police posts. A statement from the police says the relocation order was made following the IGP's visit to Farato, Latrikunda Picadilly, and Brikama Nyambai police posts. The IGP is on a nationwide tour of police officers and police facilities to assess their conditions. The statement indicated that the condition of the rented facilities was not conducive for police officers working there. The IGP observed that the facilities were not kept in good condition despite the high rent fees charged by the landlords. Regional police commanders have been asked to identify better locations in the communities for the police posts.
Continue Reading >>Police have arrested three more men, including one Senegalese national, in connection with the Kerr Mot Ali arson attack. The police are investigating an arson attack in May that destroyed several homes in Kerr Mot Ali in the central river region. The three men, Sagarr Ceesay Secka, Momodou Habiboulie Secka, and Abdou Ceesay are being held at the Bansang police station and are expected to be brought before the courts. Sagarr Ceesay Secka, a Senegalese national from Kerr man village is accused of being the ring leader behind the arson attack. Fourteen other men pleaded not guilty in May and were remanded in custody while police continue their investigations
Continue Reading >>Media AdvisoryHis Excellency, Adama Barrow, President of the Republic of The Gambia, will tomorrow, Tuesday, 14th June 2022, receive several diplomatic representatives from different parts of the globe. In this regard, the Office of the President invites accredited media to cover the presentation of Letters of Credence starting at 9:00 A.M. Those invited must confirm their attendance by the close of work today.The Office of the President will strictly observe the dress code for accredited media.
Continue Reading >>The government of the Gambia through support from the world bank funded project entitled ‘Gambia inclusive resilient agriculture value chain development project – (GIRAV) has officially handed over 50 metric tons of certified maize and 200 metric tons of certified rice seeds to the department of agriculture for delivery to the farming communities across the country. This intervention, Demba Sabally the minister for Agriculture said, is in line with his ministry’s transformation agenda. The initiative is aimed at supporting the farmers to timely access certified seeds of improved varieties and reduce the cost of purchase and reliability of seeds. GIRAV project is formulated by the Gambia government and World Bank as part of efforts to address the challenges hampering the agriculture sector and overall national development targets. The World Bank has provided a grant of 40 million us dollars to the Gambia to fund the five-year project which aims to support agriculture value chain development. Minister Sabally and partners from the World Bank presided over the launch and handing-over ceremony which was attended by Regional Agriculture directors, farmers, and coordinators of various Agriculture projects.
Continue Reading >>The Gambia Red Cross Society in collaboration with the Spanish Red Cross disbursed over nineteen million dalasis to four hundred and fifteen individuals and eight selected associations of the tourism industry. The cash donation was part of a European Union covid-19 project. The Minister of Tourism and Culture Hamat N.K Bah thanked the EU and other partners for extending assistance to the informal tourism sector in the form of business training and cash grants.The president of the Gambia Red Cross Society, Jato Sillah, said the assistance is meant to improve the socio-economic situation of members of the tourism informal sector.The Project Manager, Spanish Red Cross, Carla Sala, referred to a study that revealed that most sectors of the economy showed some degree of recovery except the informal tourism sector which remained stagnant. She said recovery is crucial to provide sustainability and resilience in confronting any other unexpected event. The Secretary-General of the Gambia Red Cross Society, Alasan Senghore, said the GRCS is committed to delivering humanitarian assistance to improve the quality of life and wellbeing of people.The ITC Representative in the Gambia, Raimund Moser, said the project is relevant, to the tourism sector because it was heavily affected by covid-19.The EU Ambassador to The Gambia, Corrado Pampaloni, said the EU outlined this program of assistance to help the tourism sector rebuild its infrastructure, which is seriously affected by the slowdown in tourist arrivals and enable members to restart and diversify their activities. The President of the Craft Markets Federation Gibril Sanyang who spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries assured the donors that the funds would be put to good use.
Continue Reading >>A 1.7m-Dalasi exercise to clear oil spillage in the river near Mandinary is underway following heavy fuel oil spillage at the Gam Petroleum depot in Mandinaring. This was announced at a joint press conference hosted by regulatory agencies tasked to look into the incident that occurred while a vessel, MT ST Sturla, was discharging heavy fuel oil at the Gam Petroleum depot in Mandinari. The agencies confirmed that a significant amount of oil spilled into the river and washed up on the coast. The vessel is reported to have discharged 1,501 tonnes of Heavy Fuel Oil, 1,430 tonnes of which were received by Gam Petroleum. Inspectors from the Public Utility Authority, the National Environment Agency, and the Gambia Maritime Administration are involved in the assessment of the damage.
Continue Reading >>The Special Prosecutor appointed to address crimes committed during the Jammeh era has been sworn in at a ceremony presided over by President H.E. Adama Barrow. Barrister Martin Hackett was appointed to this role by the President, acting under the authority granted by the Special Prosecutor Act.His appointment represents a significant step towards justice for the victims of the 22 years of severe human rights abuses under former President Yahya Jammeh's regime.Mr Hackett has an extensive career in international and criminal law, specialising in cases involving genocide and counter-terrorism.Having taken his oaths of office, allegiance and secrecy, he will lead the Special Prosecutor's Office to seek justice for the victims of abuses during the Jammeh era.Mr Hackett fully understands the weight of this responsibility, which he describes as a “process that will put victims, survivors, and communities at the centre.” He has pledged to ensure that the process will be "independent, impartial, and respect the rule of law."He expressed gratitude to the President, the Attorney General, and the Independent Selection Panel for their trust and confidence, committing to carry out his duties to the best of his ability.President H.E. Adama Barrow referred to the appointment of a Special Prosecutor as a “historic moment” in The Gambia's Transitional Justice journey, which aims to provide closure for the victims.The President emphasised the importance of the Special Prosecutor in upholding the rule of law, assuring that the process is not about “revenge or violence,” but rather “ensuring accountability.”He also reassured victims that his government recognises the gravity of their experiences and is committed to ensuring that justice is served.However, the President called for “patience, trust, and collective support” for the process while congratulating Barrister Hackett on his appointment to this vital position.Victims will now closely observe as justice finally reaches those responsible for some of the most brutal abuses inflicted upon them, their relatives, and their loved ones.
Continue Reading >>The President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, on Thursday received firefighting equipment and other assorted materials worth five million euros for immediate distribution to the Gambia Fire and Rescue Services at a ceremony held at the State House.The equipment was donated by a Spanish NGO, "Start Up," which has longstanding ties with Gambia's security services, to strengthen the fire and rescue services and enable them to respond more effectively to emergencies.The equipment includes trucks, fire-fighting machinery, tanks, utility vehicles, hoses, welding machines, and bushfire-fighting tools.This firefighting equipment forms part of a long-standing partnership between the NGO 'Start Up," led by Sonia, and Gambia's security services, initiated in 2023.Sonia Sona Mariama, the president of the Star Up NGO, is explaining the functions of the donated equipment to the President H.E Adama Barrow. (PC: State House)However, this donation is the largest since the partnership began and is poised to significantly enhance operations at the Gambia Fire and Rescue Services, which handles emergency rescue situations involving fires and bushfires, among others.The President expressed his high appreciation for this recent donation, believing it highlights the importance of the partnership with the Spanish NGO.He described the Fire and Rescue Services as a vital part of the National Security apparatus and stated that this intervention will greatly bolster their capacity to respond to emergencies, especially in densely populated areas.This consignment also includes a 12,000-litre capacity tank, the largest in the GFRS inventory. Sonia agrees that this will greatly expand the fire service’s ability to tackle fires.The 12,000-litre capacity tank which is the largest in the Gambia Fire and Rescue Services inventory. (PC: State House)Chief Fire Officer Massaneh Bah described it as an “important partnership” that will transform his “security outfit' and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery.This donation also celebrates the fruitful partnership between 'Start Up' and the security services, offering a moment to reflect on future possibilities and opportunities.As an Honorary Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Sonia expressed optimism that this collaboration will continue, as both parties prepare for the next phase of the partnership—designing the civil protection system with the Ministry of Interior.The event was presided over by President Adama Barrow. The ceremony was also attended by the Interior Minister, Abdoulie Sanyang, senior officials of the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service, and donors from Spain.
Continue Reading >>Hundreds of members of the Lady Sarjo Mballow Barrow fans club visited her on Wednesday to show their support for her and President Adama Barrow at State House.The members represent numerous clubs across the country, which have adopted Lady Sarjo as their Honorary Mother in recognition of her contributions to national development and for serving as a positive example for women and girls.The purpose of the meeting was to introduce her to the members and their activities, and also to establish common ground as the political climate heats up ahead of the upcoming election later this year.The main organiser of this gathering is Sidi Dem, a prominent figure within political circles, known for his unwavering support and loyalty to President Barrow.Dem expressed gratitude to the members for responding to calls on short notice, describing it as “evidence of the love and affection” Gambians have for Lady Sarjo.He challenged all fan club members to rally behind President Barrow so that he can secure re-election with a comfortable majority. Dem also urged the women to engage with their constituents to increase political support for the President.This sentiment was echoed by regional representatives of the Lady Sarjo Fans club from the Upper River, West Coast, and North Bank regions. They all called for vigorous mobilisation of votes to deliver a landslide victory for the President in December.The speakers also praised Lady Sarjo, expressing admiration for her humility and peaceful nature as qualities that endear her to people both in The Gambia and beyond.Aja Haddijatou Jallow Jobe of Sinchu Alaji challenged the fans to use their influence to persuade more people to join the ranks of the NPP, which she describes as a development-focused and peaceful party.Nene Trawally of Brikama North tasked the fans with turning their words into action by voting for President Barrow to secure another five-year term. She emphasised that this victory would ensure the continuation of development across the country.She called on Lady Sarjo to be more “proactive in politics,” urging the fans to unite for the benefit of their Honorary Mother and to empower the President.The Chief of Brikama North, Mondo Jatta, reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the President's agenda, confidently predicting that the upcoming election is already decided and that the President will win by an “overwhelming majority.”He also warned against any attempts by the opposition to disrupt the registration process in Jalambang, affirming his intention to use the law to prevent interference.For the National Youth President of the NPP, Momodou Sabally, this was an unprecedented gathering, as it was the first event hosted by Lady Sarjo. He attributed this milestone to President Barrow's track record of development, which has made a significant impact nationwide.“He has built schools, brought electricity, and provided roads in remote communities, which encourages people to support President Barrow,” Sabally said.He confidently proclaimed that President Barrow would win the December presidential election, urging various groups within the fan club to work together to secure victory.Honourable Sidi S.K Njie thanked the members for their commendable initiative that could reshape politics in The Gambia.He spoke extensively about the President’s achievements in improving road infrastructure and electricity supply, describing these as “game changers” that have positively affected ordinary Gambians’ lives.He added that the President's vision is to “transform The Gambia into a city state,” and urged Gambians to “vote for continuity” under President Barrow's leadership.The gathering concluded with Lady Sarjo's speech, in which she described the turnout as a “great honour.” She expressed her gratitude to the organisers for a successful event, which she says has filled her with “happiness and humility.”She attributed her success to President Barrow, whom she praises as “development-oriented, peaceful and tolerant.”“After 9 years in power, you have all seen the development he has brought to this country,” Lady Sarjo stated, before urging her supporters to translate this love into votes for President Barrow.She called on women to lead the political campaign for his re-election, arguing that they stand to “benefit from the numerous development projects” in store.Finally, she pledged to play a more active role in politics, promising to lead her husband's re-election campaign this year.
Continue Reading >>The Vice President, His Excellency Mohammed B.S. Jallow, hosted a meeting at State House with the UNFPA Country Representative, Ndéye Rose Sarr, along with a delegation from the U.S. Embassy in Banjul and Catholic Relief Services.As she approaches the conclusion of her four-year term as the UNFPA Country Representative in The Gambia, Ndéye Rose Sarr was the first to arrive at the Vice President's office for what may be her final visit in this capacity.After a closed-door meeting, Sarr explained that her purpose was to bid farewell to Vice President Jallow, as she will soon be departing from The Gambia. “I came to see the Vice President to say goodbye, to discuss programs, and to thank him for his support and leadership,” she stated.The outgoing UNFPA representative reflected on her tenure, acknowledging both the challenges faced and the achievements accomplished. “One of our significant successes was finalising the 2024 Population and Housing Census, which was conducted digitally,” she mentioned. “We also developed a demographic dividend, established a demographic dividend observatory, and worked tirelessly to ensure that women and girls have access to reproductive health and rights,” she added.Following Sarr, a delegation from the U.S. Embassy in Banjul and Catholic Relief Services arrived. Their discussion with Vice President Jallow focused on the school feeding program in The Gambia, which is being implemented by the Gambian government in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Catholic Relief Services.U.S. Charge d'Affaires Eugene S. Young expressed that they had spoken about the success of the program and their collaboration with the Gambian government, as well as future plans for the initiative. He further praised the strong relationship between the U.S. and the Gambian government, stating that they aim to assist the Gambian government in taking full responsibility for the feeding program. “We want to support the Gambian government through CRS to reach a point where this initiative is entirely their responsibility. We are working towards that goal to help the government become self-sustaining,” he emphasised.The U.S. government, through the Department of Agriculture, is investing $28 million in the first phase of a five-year school feeding program, which is expected to continue until 2027.
Continue Reading >>The Vice President, His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow, has deputised the President, H.E. Adama Barrow, at the stakeholder engagement on the National School Feeding Forum at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre. The forum that aims to allow stakeholders to discuss the gains and challenges made so far in the school feeding initiative was attended by cabinet ministers, development partners, and key stakeholders in the education sector. Themed on Food for Education: Improving child health and educational outcomes, the initiative by the Gambia government through the Basic and Secondary Education ministry and their partners (CRS, USDA & Caritas) seeks to improve literacy rates, health and nutrition outcomes, all geared toward ensuring that children are supported and empowered to thrive in school. Delivering a statement on behalf of President Adama Barrow, Vice President Mohammed B.S Jallow said the government has demonstrated a strong commitment towards the school feeding programme with increased investment. “Public investment in school feeding has increased from GMD 30 million in 2019 to GMD 250 million in 2025/2026—an eightfold increase. This reflects our determination to build a sustainable, nationally owned programme.”“However, to achieve universal coverage by 2030, we must scale up investments and innovate new financing models,” he said.Investing in children who remain the most valuable asset of the nation is considered a move toward setting national development foundations right. Vice President Jallow further highlighted the impacts of the school feeding programme.“The impact of school feeding on education outcomes is both clear and compelling, and between 2021-2025, enrolment has increased by 17.2% and 10.4% for ECD and LBS respectively and total nationwide increase by 14.8%.”“More importantly, retention and completion rates are improving, particularly among vulnerable populations,” VP Jallow said.Dr Habibatou Drammeh, Minister for Basic and Secondary Education, commended the government for supporting the programme she described as a vital link in the education sector. “School feeding can catalyse broader socio-economic development, linking classrooms to farms and education outcomes to livelihoods.”“Equally significant is the strong and growing commitment of the government to financing the school feeding program over the years,” she said. Partners like the US government are key allies of the Gambia government in this initiative, for they provide vital support. Eugene Young, US Charge d'Affaires in the Gambia, said the US and the Gambia share a mutual interest in the welfare of children. “This kind of partnership, which is practical and results-driven and focused on outcomes is exactly how the United States approaches development cooperation today.” “The United States and The Gambia shared mutual interest in seeing Gambian children well nourished, well educated, and prepared to build the future of this country,” he stated.This transformative programme targeting over 63,000 children across 186 schools will provide daily nutritious school meals, educational materials, and capacity building for teachers and communities. What started around 1970 as a donor support programme is now a fully government-controlled programme.
Continue Reading >>The President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, on Monday presided over the inauguration and swearing-in of members of the newly established Lands Commission and the Local Government Service Commission at a ceremony at State House. The two Commissions, comprising veteran civil servants, have the onerous task of strengthening land governance and management in the country as well as resolving disputes related to land. The Lands Commission is headed by Raymond Sock as Chairperson, Kebba Njie, Babucarr Mbye, Abdoulie Manneh and Juldeh Ceesay all as members. One after the other, they all took the two oaths of office and secrecy, conducted by the Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet, Momodou Dibba.They later signed the oath registry officially confirming their appointments. Four other officials were also sworn in to the newly established Local Government Service Commission. Former Police chief and Interior Minister Yankuba Sonko heads this Commission which also has Abdoulie Sallah, Saffie Lowe and Bahyda Hydara as members.They also took the prescribed oaths of office and secrecy, before signing the oath book.Speaking on behalf of the two Commissions, Raymond Sock expressed gratitude to the President for the trust and confidence reposed in them, and pledged to live up to expectations. The President described these vital institutions as “integral components of the governance process” that will “reinforce and add value to the nation's land and local government structures.”He disclosed that the commission has a wide mandate which includes “modernising land records, resolving disputes, promoting equitable access to land and aligning land management practices” with broader national development goals.On the creation of the local government service commission, President Barrow said this Commission will “strengthen democracy and decentralisation” as it will operate at the level closest to the ordinary people.The President congratulated the Commissioners and thanked them for accepting this responsibility. As veteran civil servants who have served the government at the highest levels, President Barrow said the Commissioners have the “experience, integrity and professionalism to deliver up to expectations.”He reassured that his government will give them all the support and encouragement to succeed, and urged all stakeholders to work with the two Commissions to ensure “fair, impartial and equitable management of land.”
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