Fatu Camara of the Fatu Network has said that The Gambia is on an autopilot—arguing that the country is sailing on an unknown destination. She told Freedom Radio Gambia that the country, under the leadership of President Adama Barrow, is virtually on a standstill, and even kids are aware of the country’s economic hardship. She recalled having a chat with her eleven-year-old son on the government’s plans to offer free Wi-Fi to Gambians. But according to Fatu, her son told her that the country, has more pressing developmental needs to address other than free Wi-Fi. He told her mum that the Barrow government should consider improving the country’s bad roads; the lack of stable electricity; water; the tanked economy, among others.

Ms. Camara said the new administration has been engulfed with massive corruption culture and nepotism. This, she said, is slowing down national development and the eradication of poverty in the country. She said officials in Barrow’s government traveled endlessly at the expense of poor taxpayers. And occasionally, she said, officials will travel with First Class air tickets, when the country is stagnant economically. She cited the collapsed health sector, and the regime’s lack of transparency to justify her argument.

She said Gambians have lost faith in Barrow’s leadership—adding that this could be confirmed by Adama Barrow’s declining popularity both in The Gambia and in the diaspora. She said the recently published US Gallop report portraying Barrow as a popular leader, doesn’t reconcile with the realities in today’s Gambia. She maintains that Barrow is unpopular, and he Barrow is aware of his declining popularity.

She said each time she talks about Barrow’s unpopularity, Barrow will pretend to be visiting markets to buy fish and riversides to test his popularity. She said Barrow has shattered the hopes and aspirations of Gambians; hence which led to his declining popularity.

She said the Barrow Coalition government has forgotten the people, who helped to make the change happened in December of 2016. She countered Barrow’s claim that he was behind the change that sent Jammeh into exile. She said without the diaspora’s immense contribution, and Gambians on the ground, Barrow wouldn’t have ascended into the Presidency.

“We put them there. We can take them out if we want. No one can claim credit for the change. It was a collective effort,” she said, adding that the days of silencing Gambians to perpetuate oneself into power are over.

Ms. Camara said any attempt to arrest Dr. Ismaila Ceesay will cause bad publicity for the government. Dr. Ceesay recently told Freedom Radio that President Barrow lacks the intellectual pedigree to rule The Gambia. His statement infuriated Barrow. Barrow even recently convened a press conference, where he responded to Ceesay. He asked Ceesay where he was when Jammeh was killing Gambians.

Ms. Camara said Gambians will not watch by and allow the old dark days of Jammeh’s regime to be reactivated. She said people will rally support behind Dr. Ceesay if Barrow arrests or fires him. “We will advise him to set up a political party,” she jokingly said.

She said despite not being close to the Barrow administration, she says people tell her stuff being said at the Presidency about her. She added that Barrow is being misled about many Gambians just like what happened to Jammeh which eventually contributed to his downfall.

The post GAMBIA: BREAKING NEWS: THE GAMBIA IS ON AN AUTOPILOT-FATU CAMARA; SAYS CORRUPTION AND NEPOTISM IS ENDEMIC IN BARROW’S GOV’T! appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

A task-force has been set up in The Gambia by the Board of Directors of the Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow Foundation to investigate what many called a mysterious bank transfer from a Hong Kong private bank to a UK Guaranty Trust Bank account, which was traced to Gambia’s First Lady Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, the FREEDOM NEWSPAPER can reveal. The sum of $752,544.42 dollars, which is equivalent to D33 million dalasis, was transferred into the First Lady’s UK Guaranty Trust Bank account back in 2017. But the news of the secret transfer is now coming to light. The Board of Directors managing the First Lady’s Foundation said they have no clue about the source of the bank transfer, and the motive behind it.  Now the whole country is talking about the secret money  transfer from Hong Kong into the First Lady’s account. 

“The Board of Directors for the Foundation are looking into the said transfer. We have set up a taskforce to investigate it. The Board is looking into the matter. You have to be patient. Once we finalize our findings, we will get back to you,” Fatou Ceesay, the Vice Chairperson of the Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow Foundation (FABB) told Freedom Radio Gambia in an interview on Thursday.

“I cannot tell you whether it is a normal transaction or not. As far as I know, there is an investigation to probe into the matter. I don’t know where the money is coming from. That is why we set up the investigations. I don’t know whether that is the exact amount or not. I never sat down to do any cost calculation about the dollar or dalasi amount. I don’t remember the exact amount. There is an investigation going on,” Ms. Ceesay added.

Fatou Ceesay FABB’S Vice Chairperson 

The FABB Foundation has been registered as a non-profit organization in The Gambia. The Foundation’s banking information is not accessible to the public.

The Foundation has been engaged in charity work since its formation according to Ms. Ceesay. Though, she doesn’t know the person(s) who must have transferred the $752,544.42 dollars into the account.

A whatsup message containing the said secret transfer to the First Lady’s account, has been making rounds on social media. The First Lady has been challenged to explain the source of the secret transfer.

“ Kindly reference below for the “purpose of clarity” or in Gambian street language terms, “kindly come out clean” with the Gambian people, explaining in 2017, this inflow of $752,544.42, over D33 MILLION, almost a MILLION DOLLARS OF WIRED BANK TO BANK TRANSACTION, between TBEA (HONGKONG) CO LIMITED, INDUSTRIAL, COMMERCIAL BANK OF CHINA (ASIA) LIMITED, to the Fatoumatta Bah Barrow Foundation’s GUARANTY TRUST BANK (UK) LIMITED London Bank account? And then an outflow, less $6333 (am assuming bank transfer charges) from the Foundation’s London Bank accounts to a Portugal Bank Account NOVO BANCO, SA (FORMERLY BANCO ESPIRITO SANTO SA) to charter a flight to China?,” the note stated.

Fatou Ceesay told this medium that the FABB Foundation is transparent and accountable. She has no information about the chattered flight mentioned in the whatsapp message regarding the First Lady’s delegation to China.

“I have never known any chattered flight coming from anywhere. I know that the First Lady has been travelling with private class before,” she said.

FABB Foundation hasn’t started filing its annual earnings to Gambia’s Revenue Authority (GRA). Ms. Ceesay said the Foundation was set up barely less two years ago. She assured the public that the Foundation is transparent and accountable.

Lamodo Sey, a Gambian national based in Detroit, was the least satisfied with Fatou Ceesay’s explanation about the secret bank transfer. She believes that the FABB Foundation Board Members are playing hide and seek games with The Gambian public. She notes that such an amount of money cannot be transferred into the First Lady’s account without the recipients knowing about the source of the transfer and the people behind it.

 Lamdo Sey, A US  Banker 

Ms. Sey warns that in the absence of convincing explanation from the First Lady’s Foundation about the source of the funds, speculations will rife about the credibility of the Foundation. She said if the Foundation has nothing to hide, it should come clean on the matter and stop playing games with Gambians.

Ms. Sey is a trained US Banker. She said all banks had put in place tight security to avoid money laundering, fraud, among others. She told Freedom Radio Gambia that if the narrative coming Fatou Ceesay was to go by, the Guaranty Trust Bank branch in the UK, would have frozen the said account associated with the First Lady Fatoumatta Bah Barrow, pending the determination of the source of the transfer, but this never happened.

“I want to believe that these folks have started messing with some of the accounts associated with Yahya Jammeh and were said to have been frozen. Anyone can speculate that the funds came from Obiang,” she said, adding that pressure should be mounted on the regime to explain the source of the funds transferred into the First Lady’s account from Hong Kong.

Other Freedom Radio Gambia callers also shared the same view. They said in the interest of accountability and transparency, the FABB Foundation, should allow independent bodies to probe into the matter than conducting their own internal investigations.

So far, there is no word as to whether the matter has been referred to the Gambian police for investigations. The Gambian police couldn’t be reached for comment.

Written By Pa Nderry M’Bai

Email: panderrymbai@gmail.com

Tel: 919-749-6319

The post GAMBIA: BREAKING NEWS: Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow Foundation Opens Up An Investigations Into The Secret Transfer Of D33 M From A Hong Kong Bank Into The First Lady’s UK Guaranty Trust Bank Account! appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

It is corruption season in The Gambia. Dictator Jammeh’s recycled economic hacks, who were rehired by the new administration, have started aiding and abetting President Adama Barrow, in his quest to monopolize financial institutions in the country, including the tanked economy. Finance Minister Mamburay Njie, has found himself in a major alleged corruption scandal barely few months into his appointment to head that important Ministry. It is unheard of worldwide for a government to loan money to parastatals; but this is happening in the new Gambia under Adama Barrow’s leadership. Mamburay Njie has used his position as Finance Minister to deep his fingers into the Gamtel international gateway account to loan $410,000 dollars, which is equivalent to D20 million dalasis to Gamtel, even though the funds belong to the company. The “borrowed funds” would be used by Gamtel to purchase 15 Pickup trucks from the Lebanese operated car company—TK Motors. Now it is the business of government in The Gambia to loan money to parastatals, even though such funds are coming from the same institution Gamtel. Absurd, right? Mamburay Njie is a person of interest at the Janneh Commission. He was among the officials, who testified before the Commission. It seems Mamburay is not the least remorseful about his past alleged financial crimes against the impoverished Gambian people. Njie said he doesn’t want Gamtel to loan money from the private banks in the country. Hence, he deemed it imperative to use the Gateway funds to loan money to Gamtel. The Gambia government is now a financial lender. Below is a note from one of our sources in the heart of the Barrow government, exposing what he called “the naked corruption” at the Finance Ministry. Please read on…

……………………………………………..

Mamburay Njie Authorized GAMTEL To Withdraw US$ 410, 000 From The Gateway Account as a Loan?

Dear Pa,

Barely one month into office, our new Minister of Finance, Mamburay Njie, has authorized the withdrawal of $ 410, 000 equivalent to about D 20 million from the GATEWAY Account as a loan to GAMTEL to buy 15 Pick-Ups from T K Motors flouting GPPA established tender procedures. Take a close look at the letter and you will be left wondering how can a government that is broke and in need of financial assistance to be giving out loan to a para-statal like GAMTEL only to use it to buy vehicles?

In the same letter GAMTEL is directed to open a special Bank account for the settlement of the loan. The one million Dollar question is: Did Gamtel requested for this loan or is this a secret way to steal the GATEWAY funds? The attached letter raises so many questions about the credibility of Mamburay Njie.

Written By A Concerned Gambian

The post GAMBIA: BREAKING NEWS: CORRUPTION SEASON IN THE GAMBIA: MAMBURAY NJIE AUTHORIZED GAMTEL TO WITHDRAW US$ 410, 000 FROM THE GATEWAY ACCOUNT AS A LOAN! appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

A Norwegian pedophile man, Svein Agesandakar, who was jailed in The Gambia on sexual offenses against minors and was pardoned by President Adama Barrow this past week, has been handed to Gambia’s prison wardens to be detained at the mile two Central prison, the Freedom Newspaper can reveal.  Agesandakar, was taken into custody at the Immigration training school in Tanji, as soon as he was released from prison custody on Tuesday. Immigration sources said the Norwegian national, was living in The Gambia illegally, and releasing him to the public, could pose as a threat to the Community.

Agesandakar is said to be a wanted sex offender in his native country, Norway. It has been alleged that he committed an incest against his own son; prompting Norwegian authorities to bar him access to his family. He is a wanted sex offender fugitive. He has since been hiding in The Gambia.

Mr. Agesandakar’s pardoning was said to have been facilitated by Interior Minister Ebrima Mballow, according to one security source familiar with the story. Our source said it was Mballow, who spoke to the President Adama Barrow for the Norwegian pedophile to be granted a Presidential pardon. Mballow could not be reached for comment to ascertain the veracity of such claims.

It was on late Monday evening that prison officers showed up at the Tanji Immigration training school, where Agesandakar was held. Agesandakar was escorted into a waiting pickup truck and whisked away to the mosquito infested mile two prison.

It would be recalled that Gambia’s Justice Minister Abubacarr Tambadou issued a statement in the aftermath of Svein’s release from jail. Tambadou said he was never consulted by President Barrow in regards to Agesandakar’s pardoning. Mr. Tambadou and his wife were performing pilgrimage in Mecca, when Barrow pardoned the Norwegian national.

The post GAMBIA: BREAKING NEWS: PARDONED NORWEGIAN PEDOPHILE REMANDED IN JAIL; AS GAMBIAN IMMIGRATION OFFICIALS HANDED SVEIN AGESANDAKAR TO PRISON AUTHORITIES! appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

Gambia’s security chiefs on Tuesday, made frantic pleas with the striking Social Security, Housing and Finance Corporation (SSHFC) staffers to call off a lock down of the pensioners headquarters in Banjul, as the standoff lasted for over five hours, the FREEDOM NEWSPAPER can reveal. Disgruntled staffers of the SSHFC occupied the building in the early hours of Tuesday morning, insisting that they will not grant access to the building to their disgraced Managing Director Muhammed Manjang, who has been embroiled into longstanding corruption, abuse of office and nepotism allegations.  Charges of which Manjang has vehemently denied. This followed, Manjang’s decision to handpick a junior new hire of the parastatal Aisha Bayo to pursue her ACCA Accounting course in Ghana. The company is spending D3 million dalasis on Aisha studies. She is also paid study leave and salary. Manjang’s decision has infuriated SSHFC workers. They have accused Manjang of favoring Ms. Bayo. ACCA courses are offered in The Gambia, but notwithstanding that never stopped Manjang from sending Bayo to Ghana for studies, they said. 

Manjang is also accused of financial impropriety by allegedly billing the SSHFC with fictitious per diem allowance expenses and also misusing the company’s entertainment budget for personal use.

Over the weekend, staffers at SSHFC, were in touch via a whatsapp group chart forum, where messages of solidarity from the staff poured in, from all corners of the country, in defense of their suspended Staff Representative Momodou Camara. Camara was suspended for three months with pay, pending what they called the completion of the investigations into the SSHFC staffers dispute with their MD Manjang. Camara was the sacrificial lamb in Manjang’s efforts to reinforce his control of the company, but his suspension resulted into a lock down at the SSHFC on Tuesday.

Doors leading to the SSHFC Corporate office were padlocked, while over two hundred and seventy-one staffers occupied the building. MD Manjang never showed up for work on Tuesday.

Service Chiefs, led by the Army Chief of Defense Staff Masanneh Kinteh, Inspector General of police Mamour Jobe, and Gambia’s spy chief Ousman Sowe were visibly present at the protest march. The trio pleaded with the SSHFC staffers to reopen the locked down offices and give peace a chance. The staffers later budged.

“As a soldier for 29 years, serving in The Gambian Armed Forces, I have the opportunity to be able to see places; to be able to serve in places that have been turned by internal conflict. I have served in places and I am sure, some of you are old enough to be able to know the stories from those places. We don’t want that in this country. We don’t want another Sierra Leone or Liberia in this country. We don’t want our citizens to go outside the border and start to beg for shelter or for food. That’s not what we want for this country. And that is why, when we saw that is coming in 2016, we all stood as a country, as a people, and we say no that; we cannot see our citizens leave this country in droves for the safety of their lives. If we are able to stop that; if we are able to reverse that; now we are able to gain some relative stability; I don’t see anything that we cannot solve as a people when we engage ourselves; when we tell each other the truth,” CDS Kinteh told the crowd.

“We have come with this message of peace. We have come with this message of engagement of a different level. It is about time for us to address this issue once and for all. I want us to open the gates. I want us to go inside. I want us to start talking as brothers and sisters; as respectable people; that we can listen to one and another. That is my humble request I am making from you. Let us go inside and we can start talking as a family. The crowd is getting bigger; people are getting bigger; it is attracting a lot of interest. I want us to go inside and we start engaging ourselves, please,” Kinteh pleaded.

PS Ebrima Camara was also on site to plead with the SSHFC protesters. Camara and the Security Chiefs promised the disenchanted staffers that their suspended Staff Rep Momodou Camara, would be reinstated to work soon. The workers were also told by the IGP that a special committee would be constituted to look into the staffers debacle with their MD Manjang.

Kebba Touray is in charge of Pensioners welfare at the Social Security. He told the Kerr Fatou online TV site that the staffers of the Corporation had a legitimate case against Manjang. He said the staff have filed a wide range of corruption and abuse of office allegations against Manjang to The Gambian authorities.

“271 staff out of 384 staff, signed the petition. You know that is a clear majority. No doubt about it,” Touray remarked adding that almost all relevant government agencies are aware of the SSHFC staff petition against Manjang.

According to Touray, Manjang, came to the Social Security with the promise of revamping what he (Manjang) called the sick institution. He said Manjang started by cutting down on benefits the company has been extending to low income earners. For example, he said, the company used to give sugar to cleaners, and drivers during the month of Ramadan.

“Mr. Manjang came, and he said he is embarking on a reform. He said is going to embark on an austerity measures. He said it. He denied a poor cleaner a simple bag of sugar. Could you believe Manjang going to a hotel, spending D19,719 dalasis on a single dinner. We have our entertainment budget but that is not for the Managing Director’s use. It is for official functions. No Managing Director, ever did that in this Social Security here. One Marima Manjang, I don’t whether is his wife or daughter, spent D15,000 in Coco Ocean hotel for dinner. The documents are there; all the documents are there. When Manjang came here, even his breakfast, the office was buying it for him. The office was catering it for him. That wasn’t done for any Managing Director here. So, Manjang, is the biggest consumer, the Social Security has ever had,” Touray said.

Momodou Camara, the suspended SSHFC staff Rep, told a local reporter in The Gambia in an interview that he is very encouraged by the solidarity demonstrated by the staff during his suspension. Camara said he hasn’t done anything that should warrant for his suspension. He called on the relevant authorities to revoke his suspension.

“I am just doing the job that I am paid to do as a Staff Representative at the Board of Directors. If the staff have a problem, I stand for staff welfare and defending their interest and look at ways and means in augmenting their rights at work; their motivation; their promotions; disciplinary issues and all that. So, I am just doing their job.  And in this case, we found the MD culpable in all the allegations as enshrined in the petition. It was very wrong suspending me with salary for three months, when the guy who is charged with all these allegations is sitting on the chair. What have I done? Is it a crime to represent people, who are paying me, every month to do a job for them? What is my crime? Standing for the truth. What is my crime? Whistle blowing office malpractice. What is my crime? Telling the world that things are not in order at the Social Security. What is my crime? I have not committed any crime,” Camara remarked.

“We are trying to build a new country, and we all rallied around President Barrow. I, personally campaigned vigorously; stemming from Fass Chahoi; Medina Mass; going to Kerr Nyata, Chamen; Bai Dam; that the Coalition indeed; that there is a big force behind the Coalition and they will defeat Jammeh; let them vote for Barrow; and now look at what is trying to happen to us; we campaigned vigorously to get change; and change is here; I am begging to the President, let him rein over all of us; we are all his children; he is our leader; give credit, where credit is due; reprimand and blame where people are found wanting; we are one Gambia; we are one people; don’t divide us,” he added.

Mr. Camara contends that if there should be any suspension, Manjang should be suspended and not him. He said Manjang has a lot of garbage in his bag, and should pack and leave in the interest of sustaining the institution.

“ The people going round telling you we are not.. it is not in our makeup. We are one, let them not divide us. All we are asking for is to investigate; whoever has the truth, let him be given the truth; but relying on political capital or whatever you gonna call it; trying to victimize me, what have I done? Representing my staff for a job I am paid to do. What act or service rule have I infringed? Let call a spade, a spade and not a big spoon. Manjang should be the one to be suspended and investigated. I am only representing staff interest and staff welfare. And it is only judicious that when there is petition, I should sign it on their behalf,” he said.

“I have campaigned for Barrow; Manjang has not; PS Camara has not; he was enjoying; wining and dining with Yahya Jammeh,” he concluded.

The post GAMBIA: BREAKING NEWS: SSHFC STAFFERS EMERGED VICTORIOUS IN A STANDOFF AGAINST THEIR DISGRACED MD MANJANG; AS SECURITY CHIEFS BEG STAFFERS TO CALL OFF A LOCK DOWN ON THE PENSIONERS HEAD OFFICES IN BANJUL! appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

Amid months of acrimonious relationship with his staff, Muhammed Manjang, the infamous Managing Director of the Social Security, Housing and Finance Corporation (SSHFC), has been booted out of office with effect from Wednesday, the Freedom Newspaper can reveal. Manjang was told not to report to work, until an inquiry set up by the Presidency to determine his fate completes its assignment. This followed, a petition filed by 271 staffers of the SSHFC, who accused the embattled MD of corruption, abuse office, and nepotism. Charges of which, Manjang categorically denied. Manjang has joined the suspended SSHFC Staff Rep Momodou Camara.  The duo are now out of work, until the Presidential task force finishes its investigations into the SSHFC staffers year long dispute with their MD Manjang.

No formal letter was handed to Manjang to inform him about his suspension. Manjang was quoted by Fatu Camara, in her Wednesday live Facebook show as having said that he was asked by the authorities not to report to work until further notice. He also said resigning from his job, has not gotten to his mind yet. Manjang and Ms. Camara exchanged text message while she was on live Facebook streaming. She told her followers that she was informed by Manjang that he has no plans of resigning from his post.

Abdoulie Cham, the SSHFC Finance Director, has been delegated to take charge of the institution until further notice. Mr. Cham was a subject of investigations before the Janneh Commission. He was among the witnesses invited to testify before the Commission.

On Wednesday, President Barrow, inaugurated a six-member panel to look into matters at the Social Security and Housing Finance Corporation (SSHFC). It is headed by Mr. Momodou Samateh, the current Chairperson of the Public Service Commission (PSC), who has extensive national and international experience in public administration.

The panel, according to a press release issued by the State House “has a period of one month to present a comprehensive report to the President. The findings will also inform the government’s policy on crisis management in public enterprises and parastatals in the country.”

In his inaugural remark, President Barrow said: “In our new democracy, we have to identify people who have the capacity, professional ethics and honesty to take responsibility. It is in this context that members have been chosen to constitute this panel.”

The Chairman of the Panel, Mr. Momodu Samateh, appreciated the honor bestowed on the panelists with admiration of their experience and knowledge in the execution of the task that lies ahead.  He went to say the team is expected to do a good job that could that be used on the management of other public-private enterprises in the country.

Mr. Samateh committed that they would dedicate time to the assignment and would be fair in the execution of task so that the nation can move forward. “It is a part of nation building. We are not doing this job for the president. We are doing it for ourselves, for posterity and for all Gambians,” he added.

Other members of the Panel are equally experts and respectable members of society: former Minister of Higher Education, Mr. Crispin Grey-Johnson, Hon. Alieu Ngum, Mrs. Nelly Taylor and Alhaji Tamu Njie and Nyallo Barrow.

Mr. Manjang’s suspension has been greeted with strong opposition by the supporters of United Democratic Party led government. Pa Modou Bojang, a social media commentator and UDP supporter said: “It is time for the UDP Leader Lawyer Darboe to distance himself from the current government, when things are falling apart. Do you agree with me?.”

Also disagreeing with President Barrow’s decision to send Manjang on leave is Bamba Mass, a Gambian diplomat posted at The Gambian mission in the United Kingdom. Mr. Mass never minced his opposition to the President’s decision. He warns that Manjang’s ousting could send a wrong message to the Social Security workers, whom he branded as rebels without a cause. He questioned the sincerity of the SSHFC workers, on their claim that they were out to represent the plight of low income workers, especially the company’s drivers and cleaners. He said the striking SSHFC workers never manifested such an opposition against the establishment until Barrow was voted into office. He warns President Barrow to be mindful about the way he handles the SSHFC case saying that it was wrong for the SSHFC staffers to lock down the building.

Mass was quick to warn his detractors not to misrepresent his statement to the President. He said in as much as he supports President Barrow and his government; he contends that it is healthy for him to disagree with his leader, if he believes that Barrow is departing from the government agenda.

The majority of Manjang’s supporters are from the UDP party led government. Some diasporan members have also raised opposition to his suspension.

Majang’s suspension has been hailed by the staffers of the SSHFC. Some of the staffers said the government should not stop at suspending Manjang, it should also consider filing criminal charges against the disgraced MD.

The post GAMBIA: BREAKING NEWS: MIGHTY MANJANG HAS FALLEN; UDP BASE WENT WILD!! appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

After more than ten years of operations, the JK commissioned ferry, KANILAI MV. has come on the spotlight, as commuters of the Ukraine produced vessels complained of the safety of the ferry that plights between Barra and Banjul.  However, Freedom reporter can confirm that there are no life jackets available in the ferry, passenger’s who spoke to our reporter said that : many a times, efforts had been done by commuters to request for life jackets whilst on board the vessel but workers of the ferry will always tell them that there are no jackets available on board Kanilai.

Our reporter who recently inspected both the three vessels, operated by GPA in Banjul; namely Joyeh, Kunta KINTEH and Kanilai, the only ferry without life jackets available on board is Kanilai….

Meanwhile, efforts to get the official version of the GPA were futile but records had shown that major fatal incidents had occurred in this ferry before, including the death of a Norwegian tourist and that of a journalist called Lamin Darboe, sport reporter at Foroyaa.

The post GAMBIA: MAJOR DISASTER AWAITS JAMMEH’S COMMISSIONED KANILAI FERRY; NO LIFE JACKETS! appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

Something fishy is happening at the Central Bank of The Gambia. Bank officials have departed from the Bank’s longstanding policy of disclosing government’s expenditure and earnings in its quarterly or yearly report to The Gambian public. In its report titled: “Gambia MPC Maintains the Policy Rate-August 2018” the Central Bank of The Gambia leadership blatantly and deliberately withheld information relating to the government’s total expenditure and revenue since President Adama Barrow ascended to power. This is a cause for concern, according to one source close to the Bank adding that the Bank’s management stand to be accused of  acting in concert with the government to conceal what he called “such crucial and valuable financial information” to The Gambian public.  

Sources familiar with the operations of the Bank said even though The Gambia was under the clutches of Jammeh’s dictatorship, such financial information was being provided by the former regime. “But of late the new Central Bank management have deliberately omitted the section on government fiscal operations which informs the public about government expenditure and revenue. This is due to the fact that the current government is spending too much. And now the central bank governor who is supposed to be independent is covering up for them by omitting this critical aspect of their press release,” said a credible source familiar with the operations of the Central Bank of The Gambia.

“The press release always gives information about key economic parameters especially the four main sectors of the economy: 1. Real Sector, i.e GDP 2. Government fiscal operations i.e government expenditure 3. Monetary Sector 4. External Sector of Balance of payments. This is very sad because that has never happened in the past regime. Despite Jammeh’s brutality and risk associated with giving out such information we always provided this information in the press releases of the Central Bank,” the Central Bank insider told the Freedom Newspaper.

The new management of the Central Bank has been found wanting by failing to disclose such crucial financial information to the public. Take a look at this link coming from the CBG covering up information on government expenditure and earnings in the past quarter. There is no information as to how much money the government spent or earned in the past quarter.

http://businessingambia.com/gambian-mpc-maintains-the-policy-rate-aug-2018/

In the case of Jammeh’s rule, there was transparency when it comes to government spending and earnings accrued. “Now just one more point to show you am not making anything up. Am sending you now a press release from the Jammeh era dated September 2016; and in point 17 and 18 of the release you will see them reporting government expenditure and revenue,” said our source.

http://www.cbg.gm/research/pdf/Press%20Release/Press%20Release%20August%202016%20final.pdf

Similar disclosures of government spending and revenue were reported by the Central Bank of Ghana. Check this out. Take a look at point number six from the link below.

https://www.bog.gov.gh/privatecontent/MPC_Press_Releases/MPC%20Press%20Release%20-%20May%202018.pdf

Gambia’s financial partners such as IMF, the World Bank and European Union should take note of this blatant coverup being perpetrated by the CBG Gambia. The Bank has violated international norms and practices when it comes to Central Bank operations. This is what happened when culture of corruption is endemic in a given country.

Sadly, the Central Bank of The Gambia, has been transformed as an extension of the corrupt regime. The Bank is supposed to be independent per the 1997 Constitution, but that is not the case.

The CBG management should explain why the deliberate omission of such vital financial information. Gambians and its donor partners deserve to know.

The post GAMBIA: BREAKING NEWS: GAMBIA’S CENTRAL BANK BUSTED FOR HIDING INFORMATION ON GOV’T EXPENDITURE AND EARNINGS IN ITS 2018 REPORT! appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

Dear Mr. Mbai,

The post The Work of the SSHFC Task Force Has Been Tainted By Officials At The Finance Ministry Even Before It Commence Its Work! appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

Prisoners at the mile two remand wing prison on Monday, embarked on a violent rioting, which resulted  to some prison wardens being kidnapped by the protesting prisoners. The prisoners overcame the prison wardens during the scuffle, which last for over twelve hours. The prison wardens were subdued and confined to a location within the overcrowded prison population cell. Prisoners then confiscated cell keys from the kidnapped prison wardens amid mounting tension at mile two. The protesting prisoners have accused The Gambian government of favoring the accused Faraba Banta PIU officers charged with murder. None of the accused officers have been remanded in prison. They have been accorded light detention status at the PIU Base in Kanifing.

The protest started as early as 6: 00 AM, and it was thwarted at around 7:00 PM. Armed police intervention unit officers were deployed to the prison to help restore calm. Among the security chiefs present was President Barrow’s National Security adviser.

A top Gambian law enforcement officer familiar with the matter said the prisoners attack against the prison wardens came as result of the state apparent refusal to detain the accused Faraba Bantan police intervention unit (PIU) officers to the mile two prison. The PIU officers have been charged with murder. They are currently detained at the PIU base in Kanifing.

The prisoners felt that there is selective justice in the country. They cannot understand why should accused PIU officers be detained at the PIU base and not mile two prison, even though a court in Banjul has ordered for their remanding in prison.

The prisoners have also complained about poor sanitary conditions at the prison characterized by lack of good food. The prisoners were armed with traditional weapon. They refused to turn in the keys that they seized from the prison wardens to the PIU deployed to prison to restore calm.

The PIU officers were extremely careful in the way they handled the protest. One officer told this medium that since their colleagues were exposed to criminal liability in the Faraba Banta incident, they deemed it prudent not to use excessive force to confront the protesting prisoners.

Gambian prison authorities could not be reached for comment.

The post GAMBIA: BREAKING NEWS: RIOT AT MILE TWO PRISON; PRISONERS SEIZED CELL KEYS AND KIDNAPPED PRISON WARDENS! appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

The Board Management of The Gambia Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) has been dissolved with immediate effect, the Freedom Newspaper can reveal. The decision to dissolve the Board was communicated to the company in a correspondence. No reason has been publicly given for the dissolution of the NAWEC Board. This medium will keep you posted with our findings in coming hours.

The following people formed the membership of the dissolved NAWEC Board:

Charles Mbye

Aki Allen

Fatou Ceesay, Ambassador at large, and Vice Chairperson of the FABB Foundation

Tijan Bahoum

All the aforementioned NAWEC members are operating electrical companies in The Gambia, with the exception of Fatou Ceesay.

The post GAMBIA: BREAKING NEWS: THE FAILING NAWEC BOARD HAS BEEN DISSOLVED! appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

Has Aisah Bayo, relocated from her old address in Ghana? Reports reaching this medium suggests that the embattled SSHFC worker, who was sent to Ghana by the suspended SSHFC boss Muhammed Manjang to pursue her ACCA studies  in Accounting, has relocated to an unknown destination. It is not clear if Ms. Bayo has relocated to a new address in Ghana.

SSFC insiders who are displeased with Manjang’s managerial style have claimed that Ms. Bayo might have allegedly abandoned her studies to travel to the United States. Though the veracity of such claims could not be independently verified.

Aisha Bayo has been in the news for a while was. She is one of the newest hires at the SSHFC. With less than one year on the job, she was reportedly handpicked by MD Manjang to pursue her ACCA studies in Accra, Ghana. The Corporation spends over D3 million dalasis on her studies. She was also bonded by Manjang.

Manjang’s decision was greeted by a strong opposition by the staff. Staffers at the SSHFC had since petitioned The Gambian authorities protesting Manjang’s decision. They accused Manjang of alleged corruption, abuse of office, and nepotism. Manjang has denied the charges. He in turn accuses the aggrieved staff of falsely disparaging his reputation.

The post Has Aisah Bayo, relocated from her old address in Ghana? appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

The Gambia is an interesting country. Her citizens are good at creating monsters, and dictators. Very few people genuinely speak truth to power. Some will only see the wrongdoing or shortcomings of the government if their bread and butter meal is taken away from them or threatened by the status quo.

President Adama Barrow ascended into the Presidency unprepared. He also lacks what it takes to steer the affairs of the country. That is public knowledge.

Hence, many within the administration think that it is alright to exploit the leadership void in today’s Gambia, in pursuance of their own selfish interest. And they are succeeding big time.

The sacking of Fatoumatta Jallow Tambajang, Gambia’s former Vice President, has ushered a new breed of opposition against Barrow’s government. This is evident on the recent alleged corruption leaks involving the First Lady’s Foundation. There is more to the noise behind the Foundation scandal.

The incident happened in 2017, but it came to light after the resignation of two prominent FABB Board Members: Fatim Badjie and Alpha Barry. Fatim’s Dad Dembo Badjie, Gambia’s former Ambassador to China, is a close friend of Ousainou Darboe of the UDP party, while Alpha Barrow, is the son of the sacked Vice President Fatoumatta Jallow Tambajang.

Ms. Tambajang was instrumental in setting up the FABB Foundation. Her son Alpha Barry was among the Board Members of the FABB Foundation, but he has since resigned from the Foundation for reasons best known to him.

Barry is also the Board Chairman of The Gambia Ports Authority. He still retains that portfolio. He also doubles as the Board Chairman of Standard Chattered Bank Gambia Limited.

Making a quick scan of the Foundation scandal, one can notice that those actively pursuing the matter, are within the UDP diaspora camp, Fatoumatta Jallow Tambajang’s  “ discrete surrogates” living in the diaspora, and  some sincere and genuine Gambians, who do not harbor any grudges against the First Lady and her Foundation.

The latter, do not have any dog fight in the alleged corruption scandal. They are merely doing what is right—that’s to hold the Foundation accountable. But in the case of the UDP and FJT’s Camp, we sincerely question their motives and involvement in this matter.

Out of the numerous corruption scandals uncovered in Barrow’s administration by the Freedom Newspaper and other news outlets, the FABB Foundation was the one that interests them. The FABB story is the one that stood out;; out of the lot. This speaks volume.

The mysterious D33 million dalasi found at the FABB Foundation bank account, is one of many corruption scandals hunting the regime. But smart and patriotic Gambians can differentiate the genuine and fake out of the lot. You cannot effectively fight corruption when you are engage in cherry-picking. Stop the cherry-picking!

No one is making the proposition or suggestion that Alpha Barry and Fatim Badjie have anything to do with the current leak at the FABB Foundation, but the truth be told, their resignations to some degree raises doubts. Any good analyst can connect the dots. Gambians rarely leak information. They only do, if they feel that it will serve a purpose.

President Adama Barrow and his family are being undermined by the very people, who aided and abetted them in their new quest for material world and financial possession.

There will be more leaks to come. The FABB Foundation scandal is just the beginning.

For Alpha Barry, if he can resign from the FABB Board, why can he do us a favor and resign from The Gambia Port Authority? He will never resign! The GPA is a financial basket; and he is very aware of that.

President Barrow is currently negotiating with the Chinese to lease them our Port. That is why he has replaced Mr. Tambadou, the erstwhile MD of the GPA.

Tambadou is on record for having refused to be lured into awarding of the Port expansion project to the China Bridge Corporation Company without competitive bidding. Board Chairman Alpha Barry and his colleagues have decided to toe the State House line.

Adama Barrow is not a smart leader. He is obvious in his alleged “thievery and backroom deals.” The former VP’s planted agents are watching. They will leak the Port project among others at the right time. Watch the space.

By Keeping Them Honest!

The post GAMBIA: ARE THEY BEHIND THE LEAK ON THE FABB CORRUPTION SCANDAL? appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

Momodou Alieu Bah, AKA MA Bah, has resigned from the former ruling APRC party.  In a letter dated September 10^th, Mr. Bah informed the opposition APRC leadership about his desire to resign from the party. Though, the former Interior Minister never gave any reason for his resignation.

Mr. Bah was deposed as the party’s Deputy Leader in a recent power struggle within the APRC. This followed, calls by the exiled Gambian dictator Yahya Jammeh, urging the interim leader of the APRC Fabakary Tombong Jatta to expel Bah from the party. Bah was removed as Deputy Party Leader. Notwithstanding, he maintained his membership with the party.

MA Bah is a former Gambian Army officer. He rose to the rank of a Brigadier General. He was sent on an early retirement by the Adama Barrow led Coalition government, following the fall of dictator Yahya Jammeh, in the December 2016 Presidential elections.

In his resignation letter, Bah said after consulting with his family and close associates, he has decided to resign from the APRC. He personally forwarded his letter of resignation to the Freedom Newspaper.

The post GAMBIA: BREAKING NEWS: MA BAH RESIGNS FROM THE APRC! appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

Forbes has ranked the Gambia, the second worst place to do business in Africa, in front of Chad.

Forbes, an American business magazine made this known in its Index of Best Countries for Business Report released on Friday. The firm surveyed a total of  153 countries.

15 different ranking factors were used, including property rights, innovation, taxes, technology, corruption, freedom (personal, trade and monetary), red tape and investor protection.

The Gambia was ranked as a 152nd best country to do business in the world out of 153 countries. This is effectively second to last in Africa and the world. Cumulatively, Mauritius was ranked number in Africa (41 in the world), while South Africa and Rwanda were ranked 48th and 79th respectively on the index for best country to do business. Senegal was 89th, Sierra Leone 131 and Liberia 139th in the world for 2018.

The report said Gambia’s GDP as of December 2017 was $1 billion while GDP growth was 2.2 percent in the period under review.  The inflation rate was put at 7.2 percent while the public debt to GDP was 116%. The report also indicated substantial deterioration of corruption.

In the country profile, the report stated that the Gambia economic progress depends on sustained bilateral and multilateral aid, on responsible government economic management, and on continued technical assistance from multilateral and bilateral donors.

“The agricultural sector has untapped potential – less than half of arable land is cultivated and agricultural productivity is low. Small-scale manufacturing activity features the processing of cashews, groundnuts, fish, and hides. The Gambia’s re-export trade accounts for almost 80% of goods exports and China has been its largest trade partner for both exports and imports for several years.,” the report read.

The report findings are not very far from the World Bank 2018 report on the ease of doing business, where the Gambia overall rank was 146 out of 190. In this report, starting a business was the worse score for the country at 171 out of 190, below the sub-Saharan Africa average.

These two reports revealed some of the challenges business owners face to start and operate a business in the Gambia. Therefore, the future policy initiatives should aim to improve on some of these scores.

Gambia Rankings (out of 153 countries. No. 1 being the best)

• Trade Freedom – 136
• Monetary Freedom – 145
• Innovation – 106
• Technology – 103
• Red Tape – 141
• Investor Protection – 137
• Corruption – 131
• Personal Freedom – 129
• Tax Burden – 136
• SOURCE: BUSINESS GAMBIA

The post Forbes has ranked the Gambia, the second worst place to do business in Africa, in front of Chad. appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

The ugly and the beautiful of The Gambia.

August 24th, 2018.

My name is Henry Franken. I am 51 years old and was born in The Netherlands. I have been coming to The Gambia for close to 15 years now. What started off as a one-time holiday for two weeks to The Gambia turned out to become my second home in life. I have visited many beautiful parts of the world in my blessed life. Still the people of Gambia remain in my memory and my heart. I have met many nice brothers and sisters over the years that I spent in The Gambia. The Gambia is truly the Smiling Coast of Africa.

On my first journey inside The Gambia I met with a nice man, Baboucarr, who was stand-in taxi driver at that time. He showed me many beautiful and historic places of The Gambia. While he remained a bit reluctant to give me details on his family life and my wish to pay them a visit, I persisted as I really would like to know them as well. At that time he was living with his wife and small daughter under very poor conditions. I decided to help them out and became part of their family as they became part of my family. Over the 15 years that have passed Baboucarr proofed to be a true and loyal friend. I have deep respect for his commitment to make the best out of his family life. Through hard work, he now owns his own compound, and his family grew happily to three healthy kids, who now go to an accredited school.

In The Netherlands, I was lucky to be educated well with an MSc and PhD degree. After a research career, I started an IT business with two colleagues. The business did well. When I became 50 years old I sold my share in the business, because I wanted to do something different with the rest of my life.

One of these goals is to start business in The Gambia and employ and help local people. In these goals, my daughter decided to join me. She finished her college in The Netherlands and will move to The Gambia. We started a Limited Company for the commercial businesses in tourism and transport that we intend to start and we also set up a Foundation for up-country charity. To start of the first business we bought a compound on which we are currently building a restaurant. With part of the profit of the commercial businesses we intend to help people up country as they live in difficult circumstances.

In the beginning of 2018, I met with Mass Suso. Mass Suso presented himself as an educated person, with European experience and many relationships at higher levels in The Gambian government. Mass Suso introduced me to management team of The Gambian Tourism Board (GTB), the Minister of Agriculture, The ministries of Health and Education, The Department of (up country) community development, The MD of The National Food Security Processing and Marketing Corporation (NFSPMC; formerly Gambia Groundnut Corporation), The Gambian Port, etc. Based on these pleasant meetings, I decided to hire Mass Suso the guide and consult for me. As I come to the Gambia many times per year, but do not stay permanently, we set up a WhatsApp communication medium and email to work together.

My main goal with the GTB process is to build an ApartHotel in the SeneGambia area. Mass Suso arranged the working contacts with the GTB-MD. Mass Suso contacted GTB to arrange for a Tourist Development Area (TDA) application to obtain a specific plot of land closer to the beach. We visited this plot many times. Mass Suso helped me write a business plan based on my overall business intentions. Mass Suso provided me with receipts for the different amounts of money needed to start applications, obtain the several licenses, etc. The ApartHotel intends to lodge visitors in two or three room furnished apartments with several services (like cleaning, washing, internet, catering, etc). The main goal is to host tourists and business people who want to comfortably and safely stay in The Gambia for a longer period of time. As the local business around the chosen plot already supplies restaurants, gym facilities, entertainment and beach, etc. the specific ApartHotel lodging idea fits well. Mass Suso and I had several meetings with the GTB. Mass asked for substantial amounts of money to pay for TDA land allocation fees.

Mass Suso also started an application at The Gambian Import and Export Promotion Agency (GIEPA), to enable tax exemptions, also for the import of all goods needed for the businesses. Also for this, Mass Suso asked for substantial amounts of money needed to start the process. As I built a trust relationship with Mass Suso, I let Mass Suso handle things and asked for the receipts.

In the time between beginning of 2018 and now, I travelled up country many times to speak to Alekalos of the chosen village area for charity: Kaur. On one of these occasions, I asked Mass Suso to come along, as I had specific development ideas with the groundnut factory. This factory had been out of business for a long time due to lack of maintenance and investment. Mass Suso contacted the Minister of Agriculture and MD of NFSPMC to help us get in contact with the right people at the plant. Mass Suso was lodged in Kaur at a very kind family, whom I had come to know during my previous visits. I also introduced Mass Suso to the local Alekalo. After coming back from this visit I handed over a sum of money for Mass Suso to develop this plan together with the Minister of Agriculture and NFSPMC, while I was in The Netherlands. I asked Mass to hold onto this until I asked him to start as I did not want to start this before the GTB application was finished. The plan has not started yet.

At a later point in time during the collaboration process with Mass Suso, also after having spent large sums of money already, things seemed to go a bit different from my perspective. For the application to be judged, Mass Suso asked for token money to ‘help’ the different people at GTB and the land allocation authority decide. He said this was a normal gesture. As I am new to Gambian business, and had experienced many police men asking for green tea or even more to let us pass on the roads, I reluctantly went along with this. My doubts began to rise when decisions were not communicated formally. I pressed Mass Suso to contact both GTB and GIEPA to come with results as the process was taking many months already. Only verbally, Mass Suso communicated the progress and explained the delays. I asked for formal writings and was given a sample letter that I would obtain from GTB when the application was granted. The letter contained a surprise in that a major down payment was requested under specific timing conditions (18 months) within which the complete project needed to be finished. As I have seen many building projects in The Gambia, and have also run a couple of those myself, I knew these conditions to be totally impossible to meet on an undeveloped plot. I reported this back immediately and also stressed that down payments needed to be proportional to what can be reasonably built in the set conditions of 18 months.

Time kept moving along without progress nor written replies from either GTB or GIEPA. To make matters even more difficult, Mass Suso said he would spend July and August in Europe with his family there. In May, when I was in The Netherlands, Mass Suso reported a major tragedy in his family, stating that his mother, with whom he lived on a compound in Serrekunda area, had suffered a heart attack. She would need to go for surgery in Dakar. Two days later, Mass Suso communicated that his mother had passed away.To my dismay, Mass Suso asked for a large amount of money. Mass Suso said: ‘ I want to bring the dead body home and pay for the hospital bill. I desperately ask you for 52.000 Dalasis’. I refused to this request, given the fact that Mass Suso had told me that several of his brothers are working and living in Europe and have a good life there. Moreover, I had paid Mass Suso large sums of money already. In my perspective, such family matters should be dealt with within the family.

The communication over the WhatsApp group by Mass Suso started to become less and less, despite our pressing questions to react as we were already planning the first export to The Gambia. In July I travelled back to The Gambia to proceed the businesses as intended. I tried to contact Mass Suso, but his phone was not active. He replied by WhatsApp that he was in Germany now and would be back in September. As I know the whereabouts of both the GTB and GEIPA offices, my daughter and I went for a visit to obtain an update on both projects. At GTB, I was unable to speak with the MD. Apparently the man now was very busy despite several request for a meeting. I was deferred to the GTB office in Brufut. I went there to copy the complete file. After studying the files, I observed that some of these documents and receipts were new to me. Another surprise was a the presence of a second (newer) business plan for a four star hotel. I had never seen this plan, which talked about luxury rooms, restaurants, gym, swimming pool, conference center, mini market, etc. I had been very explicit in all our meetings with GTB and Mass Suso that I wanted to develop an ApartHotel and leave other services to local businesses.

To make matters even more confusing, I was called by The GTB that a signed letter would be there for me in a couple of days. We picked up this letter, which confirmed that the construction of an ApartHotel was reviewed and considered to fall within the concept of the Tourism Master Plan for hotel development in the West Coast TDA. It did not mention the specific plot in SeneGambia. It did not mention any criteria to be met. The letter simply asked for a non-refundable development levy of 90.000 euros to be deposited within 14 days as a strong indication of my commitments and ability to immediately start and complete the project ‘just in time’. After this deposit the Board of GTB would finalize the appraisal of the project. Failure to pay in time may result that the ‘offer is given the a next qualified applicant’. I was left in total confusion: what offer could this be?

We also decided to pay the GEIPA a visit. We ware told that there was no application filed in our name at GEIPA. The officers present at the GEIPA confirmed that Mass Suso had contacted them for several questions, but never submitted an application. Moreover, the officers of the GEIPA made very clear that no application fee payments are requested for the GEIPA application until after a final decision is reached by GIEPA. To verify the whereabouts of Mass Suso I asked the local officer to give Mass Suso a call with his local number. To our surprise Mass Suso picked up his local phone. Mass Suso said he was travelling up country and almost immediately asked whether the call was about my GEIPA application. I wondered: how could Mass Suso know and why did Mass Suso ask about this.
The officials of GEIPA advised me to start a new application and use the knowledge and obtained permits already in place. Moreover, GEIPA has offered to help us in the current process with GTB. Given my leave to Europe within the next week, this will have to wait until my next visit.

To really verify and be sure about our serious allegations, we decided to pay a visit the family compound of Mass Suso. To our utmost surprise, we met with the mother of Mass Suso! And just before entering the compound we saw Mass Suso run away. We contacted and invited Mass Suso to talk. As it was Tabaski period, this time is perfect. Tabaski is the moment for clarification of wrong deeds and for reconciliation. Mass Suso suggested a time to meet, but again did not show up.

Perhaps you can call me dumb, or even stupid to trust people like Mass Suso. The proper introduction to his impressive network of higher placed officials and the show of partial progress in the projects made me trust Mass Suso. Mass Suso had also been working for the German Charity organization (Project Aid The Gambia) with positive internet referrals. Moreover, given the frequent talks of Mass Suso about his Muslim faith and his expressed commitment to help the poor people in The Gambia strengthened my trust. It is my business attitude to work on the basis of trust relationships, as one alone cannot do all the work.

You may be wondering what my intentions are to share this story with you and what this experience is doing to me. First of all, I have not lost faith nor commitment to help develop business together with the resourceful people of The Gambia. I will also continue to help the poor people in The Gambia. These goals come from the heart, which can not be stolen. Trust in certain people with fake reputations, like in this case Mass Suso, can vanish. My money can be stolen or spent unwisely.

This all has been a very frustrating learning lesson. I feel strongly that people like Mass Suso must be put out of business as soon as possible to prevent further damage to other investors in The Gambia and ultimately to the reputation of The Gambia. Mass Suso should be taken to court so that his total collaboration process can be made transparent and so be officially judged on the basis of the actions.

Best regards, Henry Franken

Editors note: Mass Suso could not be reached for his own side of the story. He is more than welcome to state his own side of the story. Thanks for your attention.

The post The ugly and the beautiful of The Gambia appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS IN THE 2018 LEGISLATIVE YEAR BY HIS EXCELLENCY, THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE GAMBIA, ADAMA BARROW

13^th SEPTEMBER  2018

CONTENTS

1. Introduction. 3
2. Trade, Industry, Regional Integration And Employment 3
3. Information And Communication Infrastructure. 5

4.Education. 5

5.Energy And Petroleum Sector 6

6. The Environment 7
7. Transport, Works And Infrastructure. 8
8. Justice. 9
9. Fisheries And Water Resources. 10
10. Interior 12
11. Health And Social Welfare. 12
12. Youth And Sports. 13
13. Tourism And Culture. 14
14. Lands And Regional Government 15
15. Women’s Affairs. 16
16. Finance And Economic Affairs. 17
17. Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation And Gambians Abroad. 18
18. Conclusion. 19

Your Excellency, the Vice President,

Madam Speaker,

My Lord, the Chief Justice,

Honorable Cabinet Members,

Honourable Members of the National Assembly,

Lord Mayor of Banjul,

Venerable Religious Leaders,

Service Chiefs,

Members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps,

Members of the Media,

Fellow Gambians,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

1.Introduction

1.1 All praise is due to God, the Lord of all, for granting us the blessing and favour of gathering here today to witness the State of the Nation Address in the 2018 Legislative Year, which I have the singular privilege of executing on behalf of the entire Gambian nation.

1.2 In accordance with the legal obligation I owe this August Assembly as President of The Republic of The Gambia, this morning, my address will focus on five main areas. These are: the Major Government Achievements registered during the 2017 Legislative Year; Policy and Legislative Matters linked to the mandate of this August Assembly; National Unity; Socio-Economic Development Plans, and Matters Requiring Executive Action. Honourable Members of the Assembly are at liberty to pursue any details of interest to them through the Select Committees or during normal sittings.

1.3 Before proceeding, however, on behalf of all Gambians, I take special delight in congratulating all those who were elected during the electoral cycle of our beloved nation, which ended recently with the Municipal and Local Council Elections. In particular, I congratulate, most heartily, the Lord Mayoress of Banjul, the Lord Mayor of the Kanifing Municipal Council and the Chairpersons of the various Regional Councils.

• Similarly, to all the Councillors and officials who have been elected, nominated or appointed to serve in any of the ranks of Government, I say: Hearty Congratulations! I pray that we all have a very successful and peaceful tenure of office, marked by fulfillment of the aspirations and expectations of the electorate, reagrdless of any form of diversity that may exist.

Together with the remaining arms of authority, and all other sections of society, we now have a fully constituted government machinery to move this nation forward in a manner that befits a sovereign democratic nation of free and dignified people.

1.5 Therefore, I urge all of us, including all non-state actors, to work together amicably, sincerely and purposefully in the interest of the nation and humanity at large.

Madam Speaker,

1.6 The 2017 Legislative Year, which is under review, has been positively eventful, with my Government registering resounding success in its overall objective of implementing the National Development Plan (2018-2021). The highlights of these events are reflected in the sector summaries I will now focus on, beginning with the Trade and Industry sector.

Madam Speaker,

2.    Trade, Industry, Regional Integration And Employment

2.1 In line with Government reforms, we continue to explore means of improving the business environment, promoting investment and ensuring a fair trading environment for private sector development.

2.2 In this direction, Government is in the process of reviewing the Labour Act, 2007 and establishing a new Trade Union Bill in order to strengthen industrial relations in the country. This will be presented to this August body when finalized. In the interim, this sector completed the formulation of an Industrial Policy and Trade Strategy in February, 2018 for immediate implementation.

2.3 Both instruments are designed to provide a more focused approach in implementing trade and industrial development programs and to reinforce investment in the productive sectors and promote exports.

2.4 In the area of investment promotion, Government is in the process of amending the GIEPA Act, 2015 to maximize public engagement and benefits in key priority sectors. This is part of the efforts to widen the scope of domestic taxes and reduce over-reliance on trade taxes.

2.5 Following the implementation of the ECOWAS Common External Tariff in January 2017, Government has now harmonized the Gambian tariff with the ECOWAS Tariff.

As a result, we will continue to collaborate with ECOWAS Member States to promote the free movement of goods and persons.

2.6 Implementation of the Eleven Million Euro Youth Empowerment Project from the European Trust Fund is ongoing. The overall objective of this four-year project is to tackle the economic root-causes of irregular migration through increased job opportunities and income prospects for the youth. The project has trained over one thousand (1000) youngsters in various skills within one year. This is complemented by the Fourteen Million Dalasi (GMD 14,000,000. 00) Skills for Youth Employment Fund launched this year, which aims to equip another one thousand  (1000) Gambian youths with relevant technical and vocational skills in partnership with local training institutions.

• Also worth reporting is our partnership with The International Labor Organization and The Government of Japan to support the establishment of a USD $3.9 Million project on “Employment Creation for Youth to Build Sustainable Peace in The Gambia.”
• The goal of this project is to promote employment opportunities for the youth through infrastructure construction, together with skills training and entrepreneurship support. Particular focus is put on women, returnees, the Diaspora and refugees. The project is expected to employ two thousand, five hundred (2,500) young people in infrastructure construction works, and within the Agriculture, Fisheries and Tourism sectors. Additionally, two hundred and fifty (250) youths are expected to complete skills training and receive entrepreneurship support in relation to the construction sector. At least, 30% of the project beneficiaries would be women.
• These are crucial interventions to reduce unemployment, which will be mentioned later.

3.  Information And Communication Infrastructure

Madam Speaker,

3.1 The Government of The Gambia, through the Ministry of Information and Communication Infrastructure, is working on a National Broadband Network Project. In this regard, GAMTEL has secured a USD 25 Million concessional loan from the People’s Republic of China to address the last mile access, including rural access.

The National Broadband Network seeks to supplement the Africa Coast to Europe (ACE) and the ECOWAS Wide Area Network (ECOWAN) in addressing the national infrastructure challenges.

3.2 Members of this August Assembly will be pleased to learn that government has put in place sufficient safeguards to affirmatively address the revenue leakage at our National and International Gateway. A new Measurement System will be installed to accurately document, monitor and digitally store all call traffics in and out of The Gambia.

3.3 Among other things, this System is expected to include Revenue Assurance, Anti-Fraud Management, IMEI Management, Quality of Service and Mobile Money Monitoring.

3.4 I am happy to report further that, with the liberalization of Television Broadcasting, four (4) TV licenses have been issued to QTV, Paradise TV, Star TV and MTA respectively.  Other applications are currently under review. In addition to these developments, a Taskforce has completed the review of the media laws and Cabinet will review its recommendations. All these are part of the processes for freedom of expression to thrive in the country.

4. Education

Madam Speaker,

4.1 The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education tabled the revised Basic and Secondary Education Bill, 2017 that was approved by Cabinet for enactment.

4.2 This Act provides for the management and development of educational services in The Gambia, and shall govern the operations of all schools from pre-school to the secondary level, including non-formal schools.

4.3 In its drive to provide quality and relevant education and training, and to strengthen the human capital stock of The Gambia, the higher education subsector has set a policy target to train 65% of all graduates in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Agriculture, Health and other related sciences.

4.4 To respond more effectively to the human resource development needs of the country, plans are afoot to transform The Gambia Technical Training Institute into a University of Technology and Engineering and the Management Development Institute into a University of Management and Public Administration.

4.5 Ultimately, the constituent schools of The Gambia College will also be fused into The University of The Gambia. In this regard, the Acts of these institutions are currently under review.

The relevant Bills will be tabled before this August Assembly for ratification.

4.6 The University of The Gambia Faraba Banta Campus Project is in progress, and Government looks forward to its successful completion to accommodate all relevant university activities. Meanwhile, a good number of scholarships are offered in-country and in notable universities of various friendly countries. The impact of this is beginning to be evident.

5. Energy And Petroleum Sector

Madam Speaker,

5.1 On the Petroleum sub-sector, major international oil companies have expressed interest in exploring and commercializing our hydrocarbon potential.

The licensing of offshore blocks of A2 and A5 are required in order to drill an exploration well before end of 2018. In spite of this, the regulatory instruments of the Petroleum Products Act, 2016 have been validated and sent to the Ministry of Justice for finalization. These tools will be utilized to standardize the downstream sector as a source of revenue.

5.2 On energy, it is common knowledge that my Government inherited a malfunctioning utility with dilapidated infrastructure. Therefore, to address this in the short term, Government has approved a two-year emergency power supply agreement between KARPOWER and NAWEC for a 30MW generation capacity.

NAWEC is also implementing a number of projects which includes operation of a new 11 MW power plant at Kotu Power Station, funded by BADEA and OFID, and estimated at US$22.32 Million. The replacement of a 9MW generator at the Brikama Power Station, through funding from the World Bank, is ongoing.

5.3 Also underway is an additional US$24 Million 20MW project in Brikama, funded by the Islamic Development Bank. The implementation and construction works are expected to end by the first quarter of 2019.

5.4 In partnership with the World Bank and the European Union, Government plans to implement a project entailing installation of solar panels for all our schools and health facilities, as well as upgrading and rehabilitation of the existing dilapidated infrastructure.

5.5 The second phase of the successful partnership with SENELEC of Senegal, reported before, will interconnect the Karang/Amdalai border to supply power to Barra and its catchment areas. Finally, a project has begun to replace existing asbestos pipes, drilling of new boreholes and expansion of the water network to underserved areas. This is funded through the Indian line of Credit at an estimated cost of US$22.5 Million.

5.6 It is in view of the acute and distressful energy crisis that all these details have been provided to reassure all Gambians of the urgency with which my Government is striving to end the power crisis permanently.

• On the issue of mining, Government is investigating the activities of operators engaged in sand and heavy mineral mining.

Members are assured that Government will pursue the best interest of the Gambian people in this endeavour.

6.     The Environment

Madam Speaker,

6.1 In order to address the current major environmental challenges, Government’s attention focuses squarely on reforestation and waste management, as well as coastal and marine resource management, among other interventions.

6.2 The ban on manufacturing, importation, retailing and use of plastic bags in The Gambia is in place.  Key among its effect is the drastic reduction in volumes of generated and accumulated waste.

6.3 The National Environmental Agency is currently reviewing and updating the National Implementation Plan linked to the Stockholm Convention and Chemical and Pesticide Management Act, 1994. The new Bill will incorporate emerging environmental issues that were not anticipated in the Act.

6.4 It is encouraging that the country concluded a US$ 2 Million agreement from Global Environment Facility to assist in redressing some of our waste issues.

6.5 To address unplanned developments, and uncontrolled exploitation of the coastal and marine resources, there is need for an integrated coastal zone management system involving all stakeholders. As a result, it is urgent to pass the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Bill, 2015 into law. Follow-ups will be done on this.

Waste management and disposal continues to be a menace, but it is hoped that the newly elected Local Government officials, especially for Banjul and KMC, will give these issues special attention.

7.     Transport, Works And Infrastructure

Madam Speaker,

7.1 The Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure has successfully updated the National Transport Policy (2018-2027) and formulated a National Public Buildings and Facilities Policy (2018-2027). The two policies are set for presentation to Cabinet and the National Assembly for approval and ratification, respectively.

7.2 On road infrastructure, it is heartening to state that works will commence shortly on the 48.3 km Basse-Fatoto-Koina Road project, which includes the 150 meter-long Fatoto-Passamas Bridge, as well as the 200 meter-long Basse-Wuli Bridge. This intervention is long overdue, in view of its importance, and deserves high priority.

7.3 As updates, the Stink-Corner Access Road, the Soutouma-Sereh-Gambissara Road Project, as well as the reconstruction of the Wellingara-Sinchu Road, the Nusrat High School Road and Master Jatta Road are complete and in full use.

7.4 Government now intends to construct 400 kilometers of rural roads using PRO BASE Technology. This involves 104 kilometers of Feeder Roads over a three-year period, at a cost of ten million, three hundred and forty-six thousand, seven hundred and forty-seven Euros (€ 10,346,746).

7.5 A Concept Note for the construction and upgrading of over 500 kilometers of urban roads has been prepared recently, with the objective of reducing traffic congestion and increasing mobility at low cost.

7.6 The much-talked about Trans-Gambia Bridge, the Laminkoto-Passimas Road and the Sukuta – Janbanjelly Road Project are all progressing satisfactorily.

7.7 The design for the extended phase of the Airport Improvement Project, which is exclusively funded by the Saudi Fund, has begun. The entire project is scheduled for completion in twelve months. On a related development, the Civil Aviation System has completed a comprehensive Universal Safety Oversight Audit Program by the International Civil Aviation Organization in 2018.

7.8 The Civil Aviation Bill tabled before the National Assembly has been enacted. Basically, it seeks to meet new and emerging Standards and Recommended Practices tied to global civil aviation safety and security measures.

8. Justice

Madam Speaker,

In line with the promise to the Gambian people in accordance with the National Development Plan 2018-2021, the Government continues to make steady progress in building a solid foundation for good governance, the rule of law, respect for human rights and transitional Justice programme.

8.1. Constitutional Review Commission

Following the enactment of the Constitutional Review Commission, Act in December 2017, the Constitutional Review Commission was appointed and charged with the responsibility to draft a new constitution. The Commissioners have commenced work in earnest with the appointment of the Executive Secretary and a Secretariat.

8.2 Establishment of the Truth, Reconciliation & Reparations Commission (TRRC)

Following the enactment of the Truth, Reconciliation & Reparations Commission, (TRRC) Act in December 2017, the setting up of the TRRC is at an advanced stage.

The eleven potential Commissioners representing all regions and interest groups have been identified and their names published for any objection from members of the public.

The preparations are well underway for the launching of the Commission in October 2018.

8.3 National Human Rights Commission

For the first time in our history, a National Human Rights Commission Act was also enacted in 2017 in line with the Paris principles for the establishment of independent human Rights Commissions. The appointment of five Commissioners is well underway through a Selection Panel which has been constituted in accordance with the Act to facilitate the selection process.

We expect to have the Commission fully constituted before the end of 2018. With the establishment of the Commission, ordinary Gambians will have an alternative and affordable avenue to provide redress for human rights violations in the country.

8.4 Anti- Corruption Commission

In line with the aspiration to foster good governance and combat corruption, a Draft Anti-Corruption Bill has been finalised and ready to be submitted to the Cabinet for final review and approval. This bill seeks to establish an Anti-Corruption Commission and provide effective measures for the eradication, suppression and prevention of corruption and corrupt practices in both private and public life in The Gambia. We expect to table the bill before this August body by the end of 2018.

8.5 Criminal Justice and media law Reforms

In a bid to sanitise our criminal justice system and to ensure a conducive environment for the media, a comprehensive reform program has been initiated to review and update the criminal law legislations and to repeal the draconian media laws of this country in line with international best practices.

8.6 Compliance with International Treaty Body Reporting Obligations

As part of its obligation under the international Treaty Bodies to which it is a party, The Gambia is expected to file periodic reports on the state of implementation of these treaties.

Unfortunately, in the past two decades The Gambia had failed to fulfill its reporting obligations, leading to a backlog of State Reports to Regional and International treaty bodies. In order to clear the backlog, a Multi- Stakeholder Task Force has been set up by the Ministry of Justice comprising of Government and Civil Society Organisations to coordinate, prepare and submit reports on the implementation of treaties.

Consequently, in July 2018, The Gambia appeared before the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) in fulfillment of its reporting obligation for the first report in 33 years.

In the same vein, in November 2018, The Gambia is scheduled to submit its combined report on the African Charter on Human & People’s Rights to the African Commission for the first time since 1994.

9. Fisheries And Water Resources

Madam Speaker,

9.1 I am confident that Members of this August Assembly will be pleased to learn that, through support from the Saudi Development Fund, a twenty-five solar-powered piped-water supply system will be constructed and installed this year in twenty-five communities to serve seventy thousand (70, 000) people in rural communities. In collaboration with UNICEF also, my Government will continue to provide safe drinking water and basic sanitary facilities for 34 lower basic schools and health centres across the country.

9.2 Meanwhile, discussions are at an advanced stage between the Governments of The Gambia and Japan for the construction and installation of twenty-five solar-powered piped-water supply systems that will serve eighty thousand (80, 000) rural dwellers.

9.3 Furthermore, it is hoped that, with support of the Africa Development Bank Group, we will install one hundred and forty-four solar-powered piped-water supply systems to serve two hundred and twenty thousand (220, 000) persons in the rural area. Given the hardship encountered in some rural communities, these projects should bring welcome relief to all those affected.

9.4 Aside from these plans, two Bills will be tabled during the course of the year: a Bill for an up-to-date and comprehensive Water Act and another to establish a new National Water Resources Management Authority.

These two Bills expressly indicate Government’s conviction to safeguard, protect and manage our water resources.

9.5 Finally for this sector, the Government will present, for consideration, a Bill to establish The Gambia Meteorological Authority as an independent public enterprise, governed by a board, for the provision of meteorological services.

Madam Speaker,

9.6 The Fisheries sector remains a source of revenue for us, thus activities within the sector attract much attention. With support from the Food and Agriculture Organization, my Government has secured a Technical Cooperation Program on Aquaculture for Women and Youth.

It is currently being implemented with a total budget of four hundred and forty-two thousand Dollars (US$442,000.00), focusing on three key areas; these are:

• Establishment of four hatcheries at strategic

locations in the country. The capacity per hatchery will range between eight hundred thousand (800, 000) and one Million (1, 000, 000) fry or small fish annually;

(B) Establishment of three feed mill plants at strategic locations in the country. The capacity per mill will be about 500 kilograms per day to produce different types of feeds for different categories of fish.

(C) Capacity development for the production of quality seeds and feeds. Particular preference will be given to youth and women associations.

9.7 On further legislative work, Government is in the process of effecting amendments to the Fisheries Regulations, 2008 to include the upward revision of fishing licenses by 50%; observation of closed seasons; and, enforcement of marine protected areas.

9.8 Since the commencement of industrial fishing operations in June 2017 to date, total revenue of over GMD 57 Million Dalasi has been generated by the Government through license fees, 10% fish landings and fines from arrested vessels. During the same period, a total of six hundred and eighty-three (683) Gambians gained employment as fisheries observers and deck hands.

9.9 At the bilateral level, The Gambia and the Republic of Senegal are implementing a cooperation agreement in the field of fisheries and aquaculture development.

9.10 I would like to reassure Gambians that the agreement presents a win-win situation for both countries, particularly for The Gambia.

10.     Interior

Madam Speaker,

10.1 Government is fully committed to guaranteeing security and maintaining law and order throughout the country. In the wake of the random attacks across the globe, the Counter Terrorism Unit will be re-organized and given new mandates for more effective preventive and counter operations.

10.2 To promote transparency and meritocracy, an independent police council will be set up, and efforts to attract recruits with skills and competencies will be intensified to maintain a force of personnel with integrity and substantial potential.

10.3 To ascertain justice and fair play, Government intends to establish an independent Police Complaints Commission, preferably to be presided over by an experienced former Judge of the Courts, to ensure that the fundamental human rights of residents of the country are respected. These reforms will extend to the Prison Department, where the design for the construction of a new modern prison is near completion. Noting the involvement of our vulnerable youth in crime, a new legal framework will be developed for the detention and management of juveniles in custody.

10.4 As migration is a source of much concern and grief, my Government has formulated a new migration policy to reinforce the Immigration Act, especially as regards cross-border movement

11.     Health And Social Welfare

Madam Speaker,

11.1 There is an ongoing expansion of our health care services, with the overall objective of attaining Universal Health Coverage. To this end, the World Bank has agreed to support the country to develop a Health Financing Strategic Plan for the establishment of a functional and reliable health care system.

11.2 Despite all the challenges we inherited, significant gains have been registered in the health sector in the areas of Malaria elimination, immunization, Reproductive Maternal Neonatal Child and Adolescent Health. In fact, total skill delivery now stands at 82% in the country.

11.3 To augment these achievements, the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare is working closely with the West Africa College of Surgeons and Physicians to start post-graduate programs for young Doctors in the country.

11.4 This will offer us an opportunity to have specialists in various areas so as to reduce the burden on overseas treatment and provide quality health care for everyone in The Gambia.

11.5 On medical supplies, the Government has successfully negotiated a grant with the Global Fund to fight Malaria, Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS, as well as to support the general strengthening of the entire health care system. This will boost the system and prevent shortages of health commodities, especially medicines.

12.     Youth And Sports

Madam Speaker,

12.1 The youth make up the largest proportion of the Gambian population. 36.7% of the 1.8 Million Gambian population are aged 13-30 years; yet, youth unemployment has risen to 38%.

12.2 I made reference to this earlier, and it is cause for concern for all of us. You will agree with me that my Government inherited extremely wide-ranging socio-economic challenges. These include acute frustrations and lack of opportunities for the youth. The result is that thousands of youths undertake risky journeys, often with tragic consequences, in search of greener pastures elsewhere.

12.3 To address these challenges, the Ministry of Youth and Sports is focusing on three key activities: a terminal evaluation and formulation of the Fourth National Youth Policy; evaluation of the National Sports Policy to inform the formulation of the Youth and Sports Strategic Plan; and, a Mid-Term review of the Strategic Plan, 2015 – 2019.

12.4 Through inter-Ministerial collaboration and coordination, especially with the Ministry of Trade and the Education sub-sectors, various educational, training and entrepreneurial opportunities will continue to be opened for the youth. Public and Private sector partnership will also be strategically strengthened for this purpose.

13.     Tourism And Culture

Madam Speaker,

13.1 The year 2017-2018 marked an increase in the number of tourist arrivals in The Gambia. In all, arrivals for 2018 are projected at over two hundred thousand, representing a moderate growth of 30%. This is in contrast to the sharp reduction in the previous year, which resulted from the past political crisis. Encouraged by these positive developments, Government targets to increase and facilitate tourism arrivals to three hundred and fifty thousand (350, 000) tourists by 2021 through product diversification offerings and reaching out to new markets.

13.2 It is projected that close to One Billion Dalasi will be invested in the Tourism sector within the next three years, to be matched by the creation of at least four thousand (4000) jobs.

All these investments seek to enable a year-round Tourism sector.

13.3 The Movinpick Gambia promoters have renewed their commitment to construct a five-star hotel valued at USD 55,000,000. Linked to this, the Ministry of Tourism and Culture has revised the guidelines for classification and reclassification of hotels in conformity with international standards, to ensure higher level service delivery.

13.4 In the area of culture, UNESCO has provided financial support for the National Council for Arts and Culture to review and update the country’s 1986 Cultural Policy. This policy will be operational in the current year, 2018, to guide activities in this sector.

13.5 To protect Intellectual Property, Government will ensure that an effective copyright procedure exists through a functioning office. To complement this, an operational Collecting Society will be established for collection and distribution of royalties to creators and artists.

14. Agriculture

Madam Speaker,

14.1 My Government recognizes Agriculture as the backbone of the Gambian economy. In fact, our survival as human beings depends, to a large extent, on agricultural activities and produce. In view of this, the Agriculture sector continues to feature prominently in our national agenda, and it is encouraging that it is on the path for revitalization to contribute realistically to national development.

14.2 In broad terms, the sector’s key achievements envelop production of agricultural and natural resources, construction of water retention facilities and enhancing tidal access and feeder roads. The Agriculture sector has also been active in market infrastructure development, diversification and commercialization.

14.3 To boost national food and nutrition security, in partnership with the World Food Program, FASDEP has been implementing the School Feeding Program to benefit eighty-seven (87) targeted schools, with a total of twenty-two thousand, nine hundred and twenty-four (22,924) pupils in the West Coast and Lower River Regions. Also, thirty (30) schools now have half-hectare vegetable gardens each.

14.4 On regulatory frameworks, the Seed Quality Control and Marketing Regulation and a Seed Quality Control and Certification Manual have been developed. The National Seed Policy, which was in operation since 2008, has now been updated to match with the ECOWAS Harmonized Seed Regulation.

14.5 Because of the crucial role played by our farmers, both male and female, Government will continue to support them to the extent that our capacity allows. Such support will be in the form of inputs, facilitating access to market outlets and technical advice from competent personnel.

14.6 Of special interest to my Government are the women that are engaged in various agricultural activities.

We will continue to support and encourage them not only to contribute their quota to national development, but also to improve their social and economic conditions.

Government will continue to request the Ministry of Agriculture to scale up such support, to help substantially in diversifying and maximizing production, making use of existing technology and adding real value to whatever they do or produce.

14.7 Finally, we look forward to a very good farming season, with expected improvements on the last season. Nonetheless, in view of the much lamented effects of climate change, we cannot depend wholly and solely on the rains for agricultural activities. The solution to the current challenges lies in exploring all options available to undertake all-year-round farming activities.

The Government is working with the French on the feasibility of such projects in the Upper River Region.  Therefore, I call upon all farmers and Government officials to think and work along these lines.

15.      Lands And Regional Government

Madam Speaker,

15.1 For the information of this August Body, The Gambia is among countries participating in the Participatory Slum Upgrading Program, and has qualified for the implementation stage. This program was launched at the last World Urban Forum held in Malaysia.

15.2 The emergence of estate agencies in the past years has significantly accelerated the use of land mainly for residential purpose in the Greater Banjul Area.

As a result, it has significantly changed how land is used for development at the expense of other uses. To address this, the Government is working with estate agencies to regulate the industry.

15.3 Very importantly, sites have been identified for the creation of residential, institutional and industrial layouts. Thus, Residential Layouts have been earmarked for Makumbaya, Jamburr and Brikama and an Institutional Layout mapped out in Camalo and Old Jeshwang. In addition, both Camalo and Old Jeshwang will accommodate an Industrial Layout.

15.4 Government has now reviewed and amended Section 13(2) of the Local Government Act 2002 in order to provide for direct election of Chairpersons of Councils through universal adult suffrage.

Relatedly, all Executive powers vested on the President to remove elected officials of Councils have been revoked, and plans are underway for a general review and amendment of the Local Government Act, 2002 in order to align it with present day realities.

15.5 To pursue Government’s decentralization agenda, plans are in the pipeline to review and update the existing Gambia National Policy on Decentralization and Local Development (2015-2024), together with its implementation strategy.

16.      Women’s Affairs

Madam Speaker,

16.1 The National Nutrition Policy (2010-2020) has been reviewed, and a revised policy for 2018-2025 validated.

Accordingly, development of a new Strategic Plan for 2018-2025, with a Common Result Framework, is in progress to accompany the implementation process.

16.2 The US$21.18 Million Maternal and Child Nutrition and Health Results Project is progressing significantly in thirty-seven (37) health facilities within the four regions upcountry to serve three hundred and forty-five (345) communities. It is being implemented jointly by the National Nutrition Agency and the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

16.3 In the area of education, the former Population Family Life Education (POP/FLE) has been revised by MoBSE and replaced by the Comprehensive Sexuality Education curriculum.

This curriculum captures details on sexual and reproductive health issues for delivery to schoolchildren in order to increase their understanding of family, health and physical well-being. 

16.4 Other achievements within the sector include the drafting of regulations on fats and oils, packaging and labelling of food and feed, the groundnut, sesame and cashew regulation towards aflatoxin mitigation and amendments to the Food safety and Quality Act, 2011. Importantly too, the Food Safety and Quality Authority has also created an internal crisis response plan to respond better to possible food safety crises.

Madam Speaker,

16.5 My Government is committed not only to the promotion of gender equity and women empowerment, but also resolved that such commitment translates into concrete action and positive results. In consequence, the National Gender and Women Empowerment Policy, 2010-2020 has been reviewed and updated, in line with the new orientation of democracy and respect for human rights.

Additionally, the existing legal frameworks will be reviewed and tabled in order to enact a more comprehensive legislation on Female Genital Mutilation and Child Marriage.

17.      Finance And Economic Affairs

Madam Speaker,

17.1 With the support of the international community, the Gambian macroeconomic situation has improved remarkably since the inception of my Government. We have seen strong tourism activities and a continued recovery within the agriculture sector.

17.2 Quite heartily, the economy started showing signs of recovery in 2017, from the economic growth of 2.2 per cent to 3.5 per cent.

17.3 Our fiscal position continues to improve, owing to the tight expenditure limits, fiscal consolidation and reforms. Net domestic borrowing has been dramatically reduced from more than ten (10) percent of GDP to well below one (1) percent, leading to the desired decline in interest rates, with average Treasury Bill rates dropping from 17.4 percent in October 2016 to 5.5 percent most recently.   International reserves have increased from 1.6 months of import cover at end-2016 to 2.9 months at end-2017.

17.4 Finalized in December 2017, the National Development Plan (2018-2021) guides our development endeavor. Its overall goal is the delivery of “good governance and accountability, social cohesion, national reconciliation and a revitalized and transformed economy.”

17.5 Pegged to this goal, Government strategies remain stabilizing the economy, stimulating growth, and transforming the economy for sustainable inclusive growth and poverty reduction.

17.6 On income generation, the Government has strengthened tax collection, and for the first time, the Gambia Revenue Authority collected over Eight Hundred (800) Million Dalasi  in a single month; that is, in January of this year. The staff audits of the civil and uniformed services identified and removed from the payroll over 3,000 ghost workers, resulting in annual savings of 0.3 percent of GDP.

17.7 A new policy has been instituted restricting overseas travel to economy class for some senior government officials. This is expected to deliver additional savings of 0.1 percent of GDP.

Madam Speaker,

17.8 Previously diverted fees and revenue sources have been channeled back to the budget. These include fees from the international voice gateway, mining and use of the container scanner in the port, with expected annual revenue of 1.2 percent of GDP in 2017-18.

17.9 On structural reforms, my Government has established a floor on direct poverty related expenditures to be at least D1.3 Billion annually. This excludes all indirect expenditures towards poverty alleviation.

17.10 There was a Zero Central Bank financing of fiscal deficit in 2017. This poses a favourable environment for the conduct and implementation of sound monetary policy. To realize the greater degree of autonomy needed for the conduct of monetary policy, the Central Bank Act will be amended appropriately. This is in the final stage, and will be submitted to the National Assembly for review.

17.11 Quite significantly, with the help of our development partners, most notably the EU, The Gambia recently mobilized US$1.7 Billion Donor Support at the Brussels International Donor Conference held in March, this year, in the form of grants and highly concessional loans.

18.     Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation And Gambians Abroad

Madam Speaker,

18.1 Through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, Government continues to work towards safeguarding the interest of the Gambian people and to ensure that we regain our rightful position in the comity of nations. In this pursuit, we have resumed diplomatic relations with countries around the world, after two decades of isolation. Many friends and partners are now coming back to work with us.

18.2 The Gambia is once again a fully-fledged member of the Commonwealth of Nations, following its withdrawal by the former President in 2013.  As a member of the Commonwealth, the country can now tap into the support and technical expertise the Commonwealth offers to its Membership.

18.3 Earlier in March, 2018, The Gambia hosted the First Presidential Council meeting with the Government of Senegal. Attended by over 100 experts from the two countries, including Ministers and the two Heads of State, the event provided an opportunity to review the current status of implementation, aside from establishing new bilateral relations in various sectors.

18.4 Significantly, plans are underway to host the 14^th Organization for Islamic Conference (OIC) Summit in 2019. This is the first of its kind in the history of The Gambia.

18.5 With 57 member states, the OIC is the second largest International Organization after the United Nations. Obviously, this is an important development for all Gambians.

18.6 Bilateral relations with the People’s Republic of China have been strengthened. It is not surprising, therefore, that China is now assisting in various sectors, ranging from infrastructure development to agriculture and health interventions.

18.7 It is pleasing to state, for example, that in August 2017, the Government of the People’s Republic of China waived a U$D12 Million loan to The Gambia, following the signing of a debt relief protocol in China by the Honorable Minister of Foreign Affairs.

18.8 Further to this, the two countries have signed an agreement for the construction of an International Conference Centre. The proposed Centre is meant to host the forthcoming OIC Summit. Construction work is in progress.

18.9 Government, through the Foreign Ministry, also signed an agreement with the kingdom of Morocco to construct a new Foreign Affairs edifice. The construction works have been sub-contracted to a Chinese company, and the Government of the People’s Republic of China has made a pledge to furnish the entire outfit upon completion later this year.

Madam Speaker,

18.10 During the year under review, my Government broadened its diplomatic missions around the world. We reopened Embassies in Qatar and Dubai, whilst new Embassies have been opened in Switzerland and Algeria.

18.11 In fact, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has started the process for the return of The Gambia to the International Criminal Court in The Hague. This came on the heels of the country’s withdrawal from the body in 2016 by the previous administration.

18.12 Last, but not least, the signing and ratification of mutual visa exemptions with the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China will improve our level of engagement with them. Above all, our relations with such bodies as the EU, the World Bank and IMF are going exceptionally well.

19.      Conclusion

Madam Speaker, Honorable Members, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

19.1 It is clear that Government has made significant achievements and progress over the past year. It is evident too that, working together, a lot more can be achieved; and there is nothing to suggest that we cannot realize any of our development goals and objectives.

19.2 The responsibility rests on us collectively; therefore, let us step up the momentum to do better as each moment passes.

19.3 The Faraba Banta saga makes it imperative for me to re-echo the call for restraint, unity, civility in our actions and living as law-abiding citizens.

As Muslims and Christians, guided by the strict spiritual values we preach and live by, we cannot trample on one another’s rights, not to mention vandalizing property, or taking innocent lives illegally. Our common cultural values of loving one another, sharing and providing support to family and neighbours are enough to stop us from harbouring any form of anger or hostility towards any human being. Indeed, there could have been a national uprising or civil war during the notorious twenty-two repressive years of dictatorship; but, we lived in peace until the situation changed through peaceful means. This has bewildered the world. Therefore, let us not change for the worse. Ethnic differences, inter-community disputes and differences over worldly gains should be issues of the past.

19.4 Whatever land or wealth is accumulated leads to nothing but the grave. In consequence, nothing should matter more to us than how well we live, what good we do in this world, and what legacy we leave behind. As always, I call upon all Gambians to unite, work together and develop the country as “one people, one nation.” This is not about party politics. It is about national pride and our national identity, as it is about our future, our destiny, our children and the generations that will come after us.

19.5 I commend every citizen and all friends of The Gambia, especially our development partners, for standing by us through thick and thin. My Government appreciates all of you, together with your efforts, sacrifices, sense of responsibility and contributions to peace and to our development and wellbeing. I pray that the Almighty Allah continues to bless us, guide us to everlasting success and grant us peace and tranquility at all times.

Madam Speaker, Honorable Members of the National Assembly,

19.6 I thank you all for your deliberations and achievements during the past year, especially for all the legislative instruments you enacted collectively. I congratulate you, and entreat you to continue to work together in the best interest of the nation.

19.7 While wishing all of you success and fruitful sittings in the year ahead, I thank you all for your attention.

The post Ethnic differences, inter-community disputes and differences over worldly gains should be issues of the past-President Barrow appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

Barely few hours after touring government departments, where he warned Civil servants to take their job seriously and avoid unproductive work behaviors, Gambia’s Secretary General and Head of the Civil Service Habib Drammeh, has been fired with immediate effect, the Freedom Newspaper can reveal. Mr. Drammeh received his marching orders today. He has been replaced by Ebrima Camara, Permanent Secretary at the Foreign Ministry.

No reason has been given for Mr. Drammeh’s removal. Drammeh briefly served as Interior Minister and was later redeployed to the State House to head Gambia’s Civil Service.

Mr. Drammeh taught President Adama Barrow while he was a student at the Muslim High School. He was the former Director General of The Gambia Tourism Authority.

Mr. Drammeh’s successor Ebrima Camara served as Diplomat at The Gambian Embassy in Brussels, Belgium. He was recalled to replace Njogu Bah, who was sacked by the President.

The post GAMBIA: BREAKING NEWS: SG DRAMMEH FIRED; BARELY 24 HOURS AFTER WARNING WORKERS TO BE PRODUCTIVE! appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

The dismissed Gambian Secretary General and Head of the Civil Service Habib Drammeh, knew about his firing on social media after closing from work on Friday, the Freedom Newspaper can reveal. Mr. Drammeh was with the President at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital on Friday, during the distribution of fleet of ambulances that were donated to the government by Riders for health. There was no indication that he was about to be shown the exit door. Both him and the President left the hospital for the State House after the distribution of the ambulances.

Drammeh retires for the day after close of business on Friday. He went home—hoping to resume work on Monday, little did he knew that President Barrow has parted company with him.

Like his predecessor Yahya Jammeh, Adama Barrow also does his firings of public officials on Friday. He asked his staff to issue a press release that he has fired SG Drammeh. The press release was copied to this medium, including the local press in The Gambia.

SPECULATIONS ON HABIB’S FIRING?

Habib Drammeh has been on the radar of Ousainou Darboe’s supporters for a while now. He has been accused of siding with the Social Security staffers, who had a dispute with their boss Muhammed Manjang. He was tasked by the President to oversee the mediation process, but he was later replaced by a task force constituted by Mr. Barrow.

Mr. Drammeh is among the old guards of the former Jammeh administration. He was dismissed from The Gambia Tourism Authority (GTA) and jailed briefly before he was released. He was accused of embezzlement.

His reinstatement into the Civil Service was greeted by a strong resistance by the Darboe followers. He replaced Dawda Fadera, who was appointed Gambian Ambassador to the United States.

ANALYSIS 

Analysts believed that Habib’s replacement is a counter measure by the President to prevent some elements of the UDP from organizing a demonstration against his regime weeks leading to his United Nations General Assembly Submit attendance. Habib’s firing will restore decorum within the UDP base; that their favorite SSHFC MD Manjang will bounce back soon.

In other words, Barrow has thrown red meat to the UDP base by firing their nemesis Habib Drammeh. If you want, you can say Habib Drammeh is the sacrificial lamb as far as the SSHFC debacle case is concerned.

Adama Barrow cannot afford to travel to the UN and leave an unstable nation behind. He knew very well that the disgruntled elements within the UDP base are not taking the SSHFC case very lightly. Hence, he has decided to employ mitigatory measures before the country will be thrown into a state of chaos.

Manjang has volunteered a lot of information against Habib Drammeh to the President. Keep in mind that he was part of the Board overseeing the defunct GPTC, when Habib was MD of the company. Manjang has some dirt on Habib, according to sources familiar with the story.

The likes of Bamba Mass, the fake diplomat, will now feel vindicated. We will not be surprised if he claims credit for having orchestrated Habib’s firing.

BURNING BRIDGES

The rookie President is burning bridges with his former aides. There are far reaching political ramifications associated his conduct.

Habib Drammeh knows a lot. He has accessed a lot of state secrets during the short stint of his employment with this regime.

It is suicidal for Barrow to treat him like a thrash by firing him without availing him with respect. Habib can go dirty with Barrow, if he wants by exposing his secrets.

Mr. Barrow should be himself and stop imitating Yahya Jammeh. Yahya Jammeh is Yahya Jammeh, and Barrow is Barrow. The two are different. He cannot fake it!

Barrow accorded the same humiliating treatment to Fatoumatta Jallow Tambajang, the former Vice President. Now, word in the street, had that the duo are trying to mend fences. Ms. Tambajang was among the government delegation to Ghana to attend Kofi Annan’s burial. She is in talks with Barrow, so we heard.

Mr. Barrow reserves the right to hire and fire public officials per the 1997 Constitution. But his gangster style of hiring and firing public officials is unacceptable. He should be man enough to face officials before firing them and thank them for their services to the nation than firing them like a MOB boss. We rest our case!

Written By Pa Nderry M’Bai

Email: panderrymbai@gmail.com

Tel: 919-749-6319

The post GAMBIA: BREAKING NEWS: EX SG DRAMMEH KNEW ABOUT HIS FIRING VIA SOCIAL MEDIA; MOB RULE IN GAMBIA? appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.

Gambian soldiers, who recently graduated from a military training in Senegal, will officially commence duties at the State House today Monday, the Freedom Newspaper can reveal. The soldiers numbering close to two hundred, will henceforth going to be in charge of Presidential security at the State House.

The army grandaunt contingent is mainly comprised of former dismissed soldiers, officers; and civilian supporters of the Coalition government. Their new uniform is similar to the defunct National Gendarmerie military outfit.

Reports have it that the current Commander of the State Guard Turro Jawneh, is likely going to be replaced. The new soldiers will be receiving command from from their superior officers, one source familiar with the story told the Freedom Newspaper.

President Adama Barrow’s close protection unit are mainly Senegalese officers. They are part of the ECOMIG Contingent in Banjul.

Intelligence sources said The Gambian security men posted at the State House, particularly personnel of the police Intervention Unit are subjected to rigorous search by the Senegalese officers each time they report to work at the State House. Turo Jawneh was nearly manhandled by a Senegalese officer during President Barrow’s address at the National Assembly. Security has been beefed up around the Presidency.

Soma Mechanic Adama Bah Marries First Lady’s sister

Adama Bah, a mechanic in Jarra Soma, has married the sister of Gambia’s First Lady Fatoumatta Bah Barrow. His wife hailed from Basse. She was accorded a low key welcoming party three weeks ago in Soma.

The Gambian state has deployed the police to Adama Bah’s home to guard the First Lady’s sister. This is no joke. The First Lady’s sister enjoys security protection at her new matrimonial home in Soma.

In another development, police in Soma said the First Lady Fatoumatta Bah Barrow recently paid them a visit at the station. She asked the officers on duty what do they need when it comes enhancing their job, our source said.

In recent weeks, the First Lady, has been up and about interacting with communities. She has been engaged in community work and tree planting initiatives.

The post GAMBIA: GAMBIAN SOLDIERS TRAINED BY SENEGAL TO ASSUME PRESIDENTIAL GUARD DUTIES TODAY; TURRO JAWNEH TO BE REMOVED SOON! appeared first on Freedom Newspaper.