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Gambia

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FROM DATA TO IMPACT: THE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF THE GAMBIA’S SOCIAL REGISTRY

In a concerted effort to address social issues and provide targeted assistance to vulnerable families, the National Social Protection Secretariat in The Gambia has implemented a comprehensive social registry system. This innovative approach harnesses the power of data to identify and support those in need, ensuring that assistance is directed where it is needed most.The National Social Protection Secretariate is the custodian of the Registry under the authority of the National Coordinator, it serves as a dynamic database containing valuable information about households across the country. Its primary goal is to identify vulnerable families and individuals, allowing for more precise and effective social interventions.The Gambia Bureau of Statistics handles the data collection, it is responsible for garnering data and supervising the process, this meticulous approach aims to create a reliable and up-to-date Social Registry, serving as a valuable resource for social service providers and policymakers.‘The data collection for The Gambia Social Registry follows a census approach – covers all households in the areas we have covered. The exercise is led by The Gambia Bureau of Statistics. The First phase covered 30 districts initially and then 6 additional districts (36 in total). The second phase covered 4 districts All Regions (URR, CRR, NBR, LRR, and WCR) are covered now; only KM and Banjul are left.’ Momodou Dibba, National Coordinator, National Social Protection SecretariatThe Gambia Bureau of Statistics (GBoS) employs advanced technology in data collection through Computer-Assisted Personal Interviews (CAPI) for the GamSR project. This data is then seamlessly migrated into the Social Registry Information System (SRIS), a purpose-built platform designed for secure storage, updates, and efficient querying.Ensuring a robust shield of data protection, SRIS incorporates sophisticated user privilege management and comprehensive access control mechanisms. Committed to upholding the highest standards, these security features safeguard the confidentiality and integrity of the data, aligning with leading practices in data management and security.Collaboration is also a cornerstone of the initiative, with the National Protection Secretariat working closely with other government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community leaders. This collaborative effort enhances the overall effectiveness of social interventions, creating a holistic approach to addressing the diverse challenges faced by vulnerable populations.The social registry under the social safety net project, funded by the World Bank, is a vital component of the government’s commitment to providing effective social protection for the most vulnerable populations in The Gambia. By collecting precise data on extremely poor households, stakeholders can design targeted interventions such as the Nafa cash transfer to alleviate poverty and improve living conditions. One of the key strengths of the social registry lies in its ability to collect and analyse data on various socio-economic indicators. By understanding the specific needs and challenges faced by different households, the National Protection Secretariat can tailor its support programs to address those issues directly.“The Nafa Cash transfer has really helped ease my financial challenges, my family benefited significantly from the program. -Ebrima Gibba, Nafa Program beneficiary. The utilization of data in the social registry has already yielded positive outcomes according to officials. Targeted interventions, such as financial aid, healthcare support, and disaster support, have been deployed to families identified as particularly vulnerable. This approach ensures that resources are allocated efficiently, maximizing the impact on the lives of those facing socio-economic hardships.According to the National Social Protection Secretariat, it is committed to upholding the privacy and security of the data collected. Stringent measures are in place to safeguard the information, ensuring that individuals' personal details are treated with the utmost confidentiality.‘The data that we collect is based on the informed consent of the people. Following the field data collection and cleaning by the Gambia Bureau of Statistics, the data is submitted in an encrypted format to the National Coordinator of NSPS. At the Secretariat, it is only the Social Registry Manager and Data Analyst who has access to the dataset because they work on it to make it available to programs.’ ‘These officials operate based on prescribed rules and guidelines stipulated in a Data Sharing Protocol we developed with technical support from WFP which is based on the Data Protection and Privacy Policy of 2019. Anytime, we share data with programs, we sign an MoU that places certain obligations on the receiving agencies/programs in terms of protecting the data from misuse, unauthorized third-party access, or anything incompatible with the purposes for which the data was given. Momodou Dibba, National Coordinator, National Social Protection Secretariat.’ By seamlessly integrating digital solutions, such as cloud-based storage and secure data transmission protocols, the social registry system can unlock new levels of efficiency, accessibility, and security. This strategic leap will not only safeguard the privacy of collected data but also streamline the process of sharing valuable insights with stakeholders. As The Gambia continues its commitment to social protection, the incorporation of Digital Public Infrastructure is poised to catalyse a more impactful and technologically advanced era in targeted social interventions, underscoring the government's dedication to the well-being of its citizens.

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THE TANGLED NET: TOM SAINTFIET, GAMBIAN JOURNALISTS, AND A FOOTBALLING FEUD

The air around Tom Saintfiet and Gambian journalists crackles with an undeniable tension. It's a relationship steeped in accusations, misunderstandings, and a hefty dose of bruised egos. Unravelling the truth becomes tricky, for the narrative, like a footballer's footwork, often shifts with dizzying agility.On one hand, Saintfiet, the Gambian national team coach, paints himself as a misunderstood knight in shining armor, unfairly criticized by a hostile press. He points to his achievements – a respectable Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign – as proof of his worth, highlighting what he perceives as a lack of appreciation from Gambian journalists.However, a closer look reveals a different perspective. Saintfiet's maiden encounter with the Gambian press wasn't exactly a love-fest. He launched into verbal attacks, setting the tone for a turbulent relationship. Subsequent interactions were often laced with ridicule and dismissive shrugs, hardly fostering warmth or mutual respect.This frosty demeanor fuelled speculation that Saintfiet was merely a puppet in the grand play orchestrated by the Gambia Football Federation (GFF). Whispers allege that the GFF, eager to control the narrative surrounding the national team, deliberately pitted Saintfiet against the press, using him as a shield against critical scrutiny.Whether this is true or not is a matter of conjecture. But the consequences are undeniable. Gambian journalists, used to a certain level of engagement with foreign coaches, found themselves shut out, relegated to the sidelines while Saintfiet cozied up to the GFF's handpicked media (GFF media).Saintfiet's savior complex further complicates the equation. He seems to believe his presence alone elevates Gambian football, his achievements a gift bestowed upon an undeserving nation. This, naturally, rubs Gambian journalists the wrong way. Their job, after all, is to hold power to account, not sing paeans of praise.Finding a path out of this quagmire requires a change in mindset. Saintfiet must shed his victimhood cloak and accept that criticism is an integral part of the game. He needs to engage with Gambian journalists openly and honestly, fostering a relationship built on respect and mutual understanding.For their part, Gambian journalists must move beyond perceived slights and approach Saintfiet with professionalism, focusing on factual reporting and fair analysis. Knee-jerk reactions and personal attacks only serve to widen the gulf.Ultimately, both sides must recognize that they are, quite literally, on the same team. Their shared goal is the success of Gambian football, and this can only be achieved through collaboration, not antagonism. Only then can the air clear, the tension dissipate, and the beautiful game truly flourish in the Land of Smiling Coasts.

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COMMENTARY: THE SCORPIONS' STING OR SONG OF THE SWAN?

The drums of despair beat a heavy rhythm in Gambian hearts. The Scorpions, our beloved national team, lie coiled at the bottom of Group C, their venom spent, their hopes dwindling faster than the sands of time. No goals, no points, just a shadow of the team that danced with optimism before the tournament began.Tonight, the air crackles with desperation. Fans cling to the fragile threads of hope, whispering prayers to a God who seems to have turned a deaf ear. Bright Stars, our lead cheerleaders desperately wanting to hang on to the good food and beautiful atmosphere of the land of the elephants, GFF Officials, their faces etched with worry, huddle around every score sheet, frantically calculating the odds of becoming one of the "best losers" - a consolation prize no one truly desires.Tom Saintfiet, the man entrusted with weaving magic from this band of scorpions, stands at the precipice. His magic tricks at the last AFCON already busted. Was the scorpion's first stint on the big stage a flash in the pan? The sting of Guinea's victory still fresh, he must now face the roaring lion of Cameroon, a beast wounded but far from tamed. His previous pronouncements, the sarcastic barbs aimed at critics, and the dismissive caricature of Gambian football, echo hollowly in the face of this do-or-die battle.This is no time for swagger, no room for self-congratulation. The Gambian league, once deemed unworthy by Saintfiet, now holds the echoes of dreams shattered, of potential unfulfilled. The record, once a blank slate, now bears the stark inscription of failure. It is a record that stares back at him, a mirror reflecting not the image of a saviour, but of a man adrift, clutching at straws.But tonight, the Scorpions cannot afford introspection. They must fight, not for glory, but for pride. They must sting back, not with venom, but with the spirit of a nation that refuses to surrender. For the fans who fill the stadium, their roar will be a weapon, their chants a shield against the tide of despair.The whistle blows. The Scorpions take the field, their eyes locked on the prize, or perhaps on the precipice. Can they weave their magic, can they defy the odds? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain, tonight, the Scorpions will dance, not to the tune of triumph, but to the rhythm of their own resilience.This is not just a game. It is a battle cry, a desperate plea for redemption. It is the Scorpions' song of the swan, a defiant melody that will echo long after the final whistle. Whether it be a sting of victory or a mournful dirge, the Gambia will listen, and remember.For tonight, we are all Scorpions, and our hearts beat as one. Let the drums of despair be drowned out by the roar of our hope. Let the dance begin.

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CHINESE EMBASSY IN BANJUL PRESENTS CHEQUE FOR OVER 2M TO GRTS

The Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to The Gambia, H.E Liu Jin, presented a cheque for over two million dalasi to the Gambia Radio and Television Services, for the purchase of cameras for the State Broadcaster.The gesture is in response to a request for support by the Director General of GRTS Abdoulie Sey ahead of the OIC Summit in Banjul.The Chinese ambassador H.E Liu Jin said the role of the media is crucial, especially GRTS being the State Broadcaster.The Chinese diplomat also described the OIC summit as an important platform to discuss international affairs and for Muslim leaders to share their perspectives on peace, unity, and fairness across the world.The newly appointed Minister for Information Dr Ismaila Ceesay, who was in attendance, emphasised the need for a complete transformation of GRTS from equipment to staff welfare, amongst others.Minister Ceesay used the opportunity to thank China for being supportive of The Gambia and Africa at large, citing infrastructural projects like the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre built to the tune of 50 million dollars thanks to China.Director General Sey commended China for their timely intervention and continuous support towards GRTS' transformation. He further stated that the government of The Gambia under the leadership of H.E Adama Barrow, has strongly promised to support GRTS towards the coverage of the OIC Banjul summit, thanks to the intervention of the new Information Minister Dr Ismaila Ceesay. The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is the second largest inter-governmental organization with a membership of 57 states spread over four continents. The 15th Heads of State and Government Summit will be held in The Gambia from 4th to 5th May 2024. GRTS as the National Broadcaster has been handed the lead role of covering the events live and providing feeds for international channels.

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ONE MILLION DALASI REWARD FOR GINA MARIAM BASS

Gambia's track Queen Gina Mariam Bass Bittaye who won gold medals in both the women's 100 and 200m events of the 13th African Games in Ghana, has been handed one million dalasi by the government of the Gambia. The cheque was presented to her by the Vice President of the Republic of The Gambia Muhammed BS Jallow, who commended Gina for representing the country well and assured her and the rest of President Barrow's continuous support.Gina was accompanied to the State House by the Youth and Sports Minister, Bakary Badjie, and other senior officials of the Ministry.

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WORKS MINISTER EMBARKS ON NATIONWIDE ASSESSMENT TOUR

The Minister for Transport, Works and Infrastructure, Ebrima Sillah is on tour to assess the level of progress of road construction projects across the country.In what was day one of his tour, the minister inspected works on the ‘Hakalang Road’ in Nuimi and other access roads in ‘Baddibu’ in the North Bank Region to access first-hand. The famous  ‘Hakalang Road’ linking communities in Upper and Lower Niumi, is an 84 km stretch that has already been completed according to contractors. The Minister said he was satisfied with the level of progress, and hoped that it would be completed within time. Several residents in the area who are the direct beneficiaries of the road expressed delight in the historic roads, describing them as a life-changing project for the people of Niumi. From ‘Niumi’ to ‘Badibou’ where the minister and delegation inspected the ‘Kerewan Njawara Access Road’ which connects 17 communities in the catchment area to the main highway. Day one of the tour climaxed with a visit to the Banni-Salikenni road. This particular project was awarded to a Gambian contractor. The Minister said he is equally impressed with the level of work done at 70 percent. The tour continues to the Central and Upper River Regions

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INFORMATION MINISTER HAILS GOVERNMENT'S EFFORTS TO RESHAPE RELATIONS WITH THE PRESS

The new Minister for Information Dr Ismaila Ceesay told journalists during the briefing that his ministry aims to renew commitment to the development of the media landscape to bolster relations between the press and the government.In a period of increasing misinformation and disinformation, the Ministry has also launched its website and social media handles. An initiative meant to boost the much-long-awaited access to information.Serving as the main mediator between the government and the public, the Information Minister said his ministry is committed to building the website of all other ministries – a strategic move to enhance relations with the media and chart a way forward for the government to communicate to the public. Access to information is a crucial component of a strong democracy building a strong, vibrant society that enables the media to deliver accurate and reliable information to the general public.Despite the lack of support from the government through subventions like other countries, the Gambian media plays a critical role in its drive to deliver accurate information to the public. Yankuba Saidy, the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Information Ministry, said the government is working to ensure the media outlets are subvented to be able to sustain their operations. Since the country transitioned to democracy and good governance in 2017, the Barrow administration has registered significant progress in terms of strengthening press freedom. This press briefing is meant to reset relations between the government and the media.

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GINA CONQUERS 100M IN KENYA

After dominating the women's 100&200m events in the 13th African Games in Ghana last month.Gambia's sprint sensation Gina Mariam Bass continues to prove her worth in the continent. She wins the women's 100m of the Keip Keino Classic Athletics Championship in Kenya with a timing of 11.33 seconds on Saturday afternoon in Kenya. 

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FORMER GRTS DG MALICK JENG DIES

We regret to announce the passing of our former Director General, Malick Jeng. He passed away on Saturday morning at his residence. Mr Jeng has served with diligence and commitment as the D.G. of the State Broadcaster. He presided over the return of GRTS to satellite transmission. He equally worked to ensure GRTS covered major national and international events involving The Gambia.The late Malick Jeng was a devoted Muslim who was greatly concerned about staff welfare. A jovial and compassionate individual who treats the staff with so much respect and care. GRTS Management is saddened by the passing of Mr Jeng, who greatly contributed to the transformation of GRTS. Management extends its condolences to the family and the entire country and pray that Allah have mercy on his soul and grants him Janatul Firdausi. 

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  • GRTS
  • May 4, 2024 06:33
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ACHPR CONVENES 79th ORDINARY SESSION

African Commission on Human and People’s Rights convened the opening of the 79th ordinary session of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights. The convention in Banjul, brought dignitaries and stakeholders across the African continent to discuss thematic matters for the sustainability of human rights advocacy.The 79th session of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights unveils a crucial theme anchored on ‘Educating an African fit for human rights.’The speech of Remy Ngoy Lumbu, chairperson of ACHPR, centred on the unrest and conflicts facing the African continent. He cited challenges affecting women, such as sexual violence and discrimination, as he urged the Gambia government to scale up efforts to repeal FGM laws.Addressing the convention, Dr. Mamadou Tangara, Gambia’s Foreign Affairs MinisterSaid the Gambia government is committed to promoting human rights to boost reforms that include the implementation of plans presented by the Truth Commission - TRRC.For over two decades of dictatorship, the Gambia under former President Yahya Jammeh witnessed a pervasive system of forceful disappearances and extrajudicial executions that required effective transitional justice and reforms to reshape the country’s emerging democracy.As enshrined in the Charter of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights, the commission is moving to strengthen human rights structure and mechanisms alongside the promotion of friendly settlement of disputes grappling the African continent.ACHPR is a charter established by the African Union to advocate for human rights, democracy and good governance on the continent. The commission has built a robust legacy of transformative impact, empowering individuals and organizations. 

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CDS CHAM BEGINS NATIONWIDE TOUR OF MILITARY DEPLOYMENTS

Lieutenant General Mamat O. Cham, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of The Gambia Armed Forces, along with the Defense Minister and a delegation from the military, commenced a nationwide tour of military deployments across the country. The objective of this tour is to facilitate direct interaction between the CDS and troops under his command, enabling him to assess their work environments, living conditions, and challenges firsthand. As the professional head of the Armed Forces, this visit signifies the first of its kind since Lieutenant General Cham's appointment as Chief of Defence Staff. His first stop was at Barra, where he visited the ECOMIG forces of Gancoy 7 at Fort Bullen, where he was accorded a warm welcome by the Ghanaian soldiers.  CDS Cham was briefed in detail on the tasks and duties assigned to the Ghanaian troops stationed there. Additionally, he witnessed a special presentation by the Ghanaian ECOMIG forces, showcasing their methods for handling riot control operations within the North Bank region.  CDS Cham commended the Ghanaian soldiers for their exemplary role, highlighting them as a contingent that epitomizes professionalism within the Ghanaian Armed Forces. He noted that the Ghanaian Armed Forces had successfully won the hearts and minds of the local population within the North Bank region.  The Defense Minister also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of unity and professionalism among the Ghanaian soldiers in their duties.  The delegation conducted a tour of the facility before proceeding to Njongon's military post. Activity at Njongon was distinctive as CDS Cham engaged with the local community, focusing on the imperative of maintaining and fostering peace.  Villagers expressed gratitude to the Gambian troops stationed at Njongon, citing their presence as a source of safety and security.   Army troops also had the opportunity to voice their concerns during discussions with the Army Chief. Issues raised included capacity building, improvement of hygiene standards, and motivation. This aligns with CDS Cham's objective of gathering firsthand information on their working conditions.  CDS Cham assured the troops that their challenges would be ‘addressed,’ emphasizing the importance of the men in uniform as role models of discipline and commitment.

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PRESIDENT BARROW VISITS CRR INDUSTRIAL SITES

President Adama Barrow continues his tour of industrial sites in the Central River Region with a visit to the Hamidou Jah Farm in Baya Bah in Sami District and the Swami Gambia Banana plantation in Lower Fulladu District.The tour accorded President Barrow the opportunity to assess first-hand the impact of these investments on the agricultural sector.Central River Region is steadily becoming the breadbasket of the country as private sector investors are changing The Gambia's agriculture landscape with a renewed focus on commercializationHamidou Jah is a business tycoon known in business circles as one of the most successful oil and general merchandise dealers. After making his fortune in business, Hamidou is now trying his hand at farming.He has just acquired a 120-hectare piece of land in Baya Bah, some 15km from the main Passamas Laminkoto Highway.President Barrow has made agricultural mechanization and commercialization a key pillar of his government's policy, with its potential to lead economic growth, enhance food security and create employmentMr Jah has already put up a team of agricultural experts from the Gambia and Pakistan, who are now working to transform his piece of land into one of the most productive.The President recognized Hamidou Jah's passion and his potential to contribute to the country's national food security, which has now become more urgent, given the current global dynamics.H.E. Adama Barrow tasked all the relevant government agencies to provide the private sector with the necessary support to help them realize their goals.The President and delegation also visited the Swami Gambia banana plantation in CRR South where he was briefed on the operations by the General Manager Mansukh Bhudiya.President Barrow was taken on a conducted tour of the farm; visiting the nursery shed where the right varieties are nursed under the suitable conditions and the water treatment and supply system which sources water from the River Gambia.The innovative, cost-effective and sustainable farming system has made the Swami banana plantation a model for farmers. It currently has 450 thousand plants, also making it the largest plantation in the country.The President said he is highly impressed with this model, and thanked the Swami Gambia management and staff for the work. The farm employs over 200 workers, mostly women, from Buruko and the neighbouring villages. The farm is expected to reach full capacity with an annual production of 8000 tons.

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  • GRTS
  • May 22, 2024 11:45