Foroyaa Newspaper Burning Issues
Issue No. 134/2007, 14 - 15 November, 2007
Editorial
The Youth Are The Future Of This Nation – the Future Generation
Yet their future is bleak under the present order. Thousands leave school
every year to join the ranks of the unemployed. Thousands abandon the back
breaking toil of farm work, through which they scratch for a living, to migrate
to the towns with the hope of a decent living only to join the ranks of the
unemployed.
This has forced many of them to undertake the risky journey across the vast
oceans for greener pastures in distant lands. No matter what the peril may be
they are willing to risk it. The tragic death of dozens of Gambian youths in
their risky bid for greener pastures is indeed food for thought. Young lives
have gone to naught in a twinkle of the eye while families have lost their
loved ones. What a tragedy!
It is of no use blaming the youth for making the journey when the material
condition which motivates them to do so has not changed. After all, the youth
were encouraged to make the dangerous trip before by the powers that be in
the name of fighting British colonial rule.
Such tragedy can be avoided by transforming The Gambia into a liberated,
dignified and prosperous country, where millions wasted could be ploughed into
the productive sector of the economy to provide employment for the youth and
women as well.
The task of transforming the Gambia is a task for all Gambians especially
the youth. This is the clarion call of our time. Gambia belongs to us and we
cannot run away from the responsibility of transforming it. We cannot wait for
outsiders to do it for us. They can only influence the process but cannot
bring change here.
Read Foroyaa regularly to become aware and be part of those who will shape
the destiny of this nation.
Efforts To End Impunity In The Gambia
Human rights and other civil society organisations within and outside West
Africa, dissatisfied with the human rights situation in the Gambia, have
committed themselves to bring pressure to bear on the government for it to respect
the human rights of all persons within the borders of the Gambia.
They have agreed to undertake civil and criminal litigation against the
Gambian authorities including President Jammeh. In this regard, options to be
considered include local Gambian courts; regional/sub regional judicial
institutions such as the ECOWAS Community Court, the African Commission on Human and
Peoples’ Rights and the African Court of Human Rights and International
institutions such as the International Criminal Court.
They have also agreed to target countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal and
Togo whose nationals, they allege, have been murdered in the Gambia.
Institutions such as ECOWAS, the AU, the Commonwealth, the EU and the UN have also
been targeted.
The network hopes to raise the awareness of their targets about the human
rights situation in the Gambia and to solicit their support in applying
pressure on the Gambian authorities to respect the human rights of all persons in
the Gambia.
Seven People Die At Sea
By Bubacarr K. Sowe & Fabakary B. Ceesay
Seven people who were bound for Spain for better economic prospects have
been found dead in a tributary that is connected to the River Gambia on Sunday,
November 11.
Lieutenant Alagie Sanneh, spokesperson of The Gambia Armed Forces, said
about 50 people were said to be in the boat which was supposed to ferry them to
Spain. He said twenty people were reported missing including the seven
corpses that have been found while the remaining thirty swam for safety. Sources
told Foroyaa that the boat was hidden in the mangroves swamps behind mile two
waiting to depart for Europe .It is reported that some of the passengers spent
nearly a week at the location waiting for departure.
Unconfirmed reports have it that the fire accident happened when one of the
travellers lit a match to search for his missing shoe in the boat. Reports
have it that one of the fuel containers later caught flame. The source added
that the man whose action led to the accident was burnt to dead while some of
them died while trying to swim to the banks.
On Monday 12 November, family members of the deceased persons went to the
mortuary to identify the bodies of their loved ones. They complained that the
bodies have been poorly handled at the mortuary. However, Foroyaa approached
the spokesman of the Royal Victoria Teaching Hospital (RVTH) for comment, but
he only said “We are not God, these people died about three days at sea”.
The spokesman directed Foroyaa to the Chief Medical Director, but he or she
could not be traced. The pungent odour from the dead bodies compelled people who
were at the mortuary to use filter mask to cover their mouths and noses.
Some of the identified bodies were taken away from the mortuary at the RVTH for
burial. There was one unidentified body left at the mortuary. Some family
members spend hours at the mortuary to wait for the arrival of their missing
relatives who were presumed death.
Among the death are Omar Kinteh of Kinteh Kunda in Badibou, Ebrima Daru
Minteh of Minteh Kunda also in Badibou, Lamin Wally from Tallinding, Amadou
Hydara and Mamadi Ceesay from Badibou Kerewan.
KMC Former Mayor Reports To Police Headquarters?
Fabakary B. Ceesay
Barely few days after the publication by a local newspaper that the Attorney
General has filed a “nolle prosequi” in the D 4 million criminal trial
involving the former mayor of the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC), Mr. Alieu
Momar Njie, who was also the chief scout commissioner of the Gambia Scout
Association, Foroyaa has been reliably informed that Mr. Alieu Momar Njie was on
Saturday 10th November called by the police to report to police head quarters
in Banjul. Sources added that Mr. Njie was subsequently put under arrest and
was asked to produce a surety to sign a bond of one million dalasis (D1,
000,000), before he would be allowed to go free. When the police spokesperson was
contacted, Inspector Sulayman Secka confirmed the story. Inspector Secka said
Mr. Njie was asked to go and answer at police headquarters. He said he could
not confirm whether Mr. Njie was allowed to go or was detained.
He said he is on a provincial tour.
MUSICAL LEGEND DIES
By Bubacarr K. Sowe
Ousman Njie widely known as Boy Njie, a prominent musician has died at the
Royal Victoria Teaching Hospital, at about 7:10 pm on Sunday, November 11.
According to his second wife, Mama Kassama, her late husband has been ill
for a while and has undergone two operations on his stomach recently.
Maram Bojang, the first wife, said Boy Njie had been involved in music since
his boyhood, first beginning his career at the Magadan Dance Club. According
to his family, Boy Njie later on got his own band, Mossen. The late musician
will be remembered for his Salsa Mbalax lyrics, especially his only album,
Scorpions, released this year.
Initially, Boy Njie’s music has been released in single tracks only.
He was interned at the Jeshwang Cemetery on Monday at 2 pm.
He is survived by two wives, three daughters and a son. Since the news of
his death emerged, scores of people have been flocking to his home at Allen
Street in Banjul paying homage to a musical star whose music will continue to
live with them.
GOVI Calls For Traffic Light Modification
By Yaya Bajo
Traffic lights are installed mainly to facilitate and regulate the smooth
flow of motorists and pedestrians on public highways. In this vein, pedestrians
normally walk across when the traffic light indicates red light, but this
has become inconvenient for the blind or visually impaired people as they could
not determine which of the light is on unless the sighted people tell them.
In view of this development, the Gambia Organisation of the Visually
Impaired (GOVI) mounted a campaign to ensure that the plight of visually impaired
people are put into consideration when it comes to the installation of traffic
lights.
This passionate call was contained in the organization’s resolution adopted
recently at Basse, URR during their Annual General Meeting (AGM), which also
coincided with World White Cane day celebration.
According to the organisation’s national president, Mohammad Kora, they
would engage the relevant authorities, notably GAMWORKS to ensure that the red
light that allows pedestrians to walk across is accompanied with sound for the
benefit of unsighted people. Mr. Kora made this statement in a radio talk
show recently as part of their effort to raise public awareness on the plight of
the visually impaired. He used the occasion to call on motorists to consider
the condition of his colleagues by giving adequate time when it comes to
walking across the roads.
WODD DELEGATES RETURN FROM STUDY VISIT TO SWEDEN
A four member delegation of Women for Democracy and Development (WODD)
recently returned from a 2 week working visit to Sweden.
The delegation comprised Ndeye Yassin Secka-Sallah, a board member, Fatou
Faye, Board member and youth leader, Njundou Konteh, a study circle leader and
Fatou Touray, the Vice Chair of WODD, who led the delegation.
For the benefit of the reader, WODD is a non-partisan, non-profit and
rights-based organisation. It has formed partnership with S-Women of the Social
Democratic Party of Sweden.
Upon arrival in Stockholm, the group was received by Rosalie Sanyang, whose
organisation, ABF, started the partnership programme with the Peoples’ Centre
which gave birth to this new partnership. In Stockholm, the group visited
several projects among them the Olof Palme Centre, which is the main sponsor of
WODD’s programmes. During their visit to the Olof Palme Center, the
delegation met Agnetta Liljestam, the programme manager for the Olof Palme Africa
programme. She explained how the centre started, how it works and the type of
programmes they are interested in. Fatou Touray also explained in brief the
formation of WODD, its aims and objectives and how it works with the local
groups it forged partnership with in the Gambia. After the discussions, Agnetta
expressed appreciation of the works that WODD is embarking on in the Gambia. She
expressed hope that links could be forged for more collaboration between the
two organisations.
The delegation also visited the Swedish Parliament, where they met Marie and
Veronica, both parliamentarians. Marie explained in brief how the parliament
works. She said as parliamentarians, they have a very difficult task to
carry, because once you are elected by the people, you have to deliver to their
expectation which is a tough challenge.
From Stockholm the delegation proceeded to Ostersund City which is the
divisional headquarters of the Jamtland Region.
They were received upon arrival by Jessica Runberg and Bendigt Eriksson.
During their stay in Ostersund, they visited many project sites run by the
S-Women. They visited the City Council and had discussions with the Mayor, Mr.
Jens Nilsson. Among the issues discussed with the Mayor was women empowerment.
The Mayor who is part of the EU council, is also an internationalist and a
democrat for that matter. He said he believes that if women are empowered then
there will be a better world to live in. After their discussions Mr. Jens
hoped that there would be collaboration between the two groups in terms of women
empowerment.
The delegation also visited health centres, pre-schools, a visually impaired
organisation and a newspaper.
During their visit to the newspaper they met a young journalist called Linda
Hedenljing who led them to the premises of the paper. In explaining briefly
about the newspaper, she said the paper is called Ostersund Posten; that it
comes out daily and that it was founded in 1877. She explained that the paper
is the largest newspaper in the region and it covers all the 8 communities
within the Jamtland region. She said they have a staff of about 60, among them
25 reporters, 4 photographers, 4 television men and 15 layout designers. She
said the paper produces 31,000 copies daily and the minimum pages it publishes
could be 38. She said they have the conducive environment to work in
compared to journalist working in other parts of the world, especially in Africa.
She explained that they encounter minor problems like threats, but their
editor-in-chief is always there to defend them and the police are always vigilant
when such cases are reported to them and in most cases, the culprits are
apprehended.
From Ostersund the delegation returned to Stockholm where we met with the
S-women branch of Stockholm and held discussions with them to strategise and
see how best we can start new study circles in the Gambia. “We also visited the
ABF Offices in Stockholm where we met Remi, Rosalie and others. And we were
shown how to use the net through the Folkbildning programme to network with
other partners in different parts of Africa and exchange ideas through
internet communication. We also visited a Hospital in Stockholm where we met Mary
who works with the Labour Union. Mary explained in brief how the union works
to empower its members and how it also works with employers.
The visit was a fruitful one and it is hoped that it will bring in new
partners and developments for WODD.
The Gambia Would Benefit From $60,000 Project,
Says SOS For Interior
By Annia Gaye
The Secretary of State for Interior, Hon Ousman Sonko has said The Gambia
would benefit from a $ 60,000 project initiative framework for the sub-regional
activities, which are related to small arms and light weapons in the
sub-region. He noted that the project is important for the sub-region as it is one
of the most volatile regions in the continent.
Sonko made this remarks, on behalf of the Vice President, at the opening of
a two-day workshop on National Public Dialogue on Small Arms and Light
Weapons (SALW) on Monday 12 November 2007 at the Paradise Suites Hotel in Kololi.
He said The Gambia is situated very close to long-standing conflicts in the
Cassamance and Guinea Bissau; that there is the need therefore for a national
strategy to deal with issues such as acquisition, use and registration of
small arms and light weapons among others. He added that the security and
stability of the communities and the country is a major concern and preoccupation
of the Government, which he said is in line with the national development
objectives as enshrined in vision 2020. He said the control of the spread of
small arms and light weapons is a sine-qua-non for peace and development, which
the Government gives its full support.
“I am pleased to state that preparations are far advanced towards ratifying
the ECOWAS convention on small arms and light weapons and the setting up of a
National Commission on small arms and light weapons in conformity with the
directive of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of States and Government,” he said.
He remarked that a National ad hoc Committee on small arms is already in
existence and is a broad based committee which involves all the security outfits
in the country to make the work of the committee very easy in tracking and
controlling arms and ammunition. Sonko noted that the involvement of The
Gambia Revenue Authority in terms of customs, the Immigration, the police and the
National Intelligence Agency means that the committee would not have much
difficulty in dealing with the issue of movement of weapons in unauthorized
hands. He said that the Government bears responsibility for the security and
stability of the country. He said the civil society organisations being close to
the grassroots, have a critical role in disseminating information “I have been
reliably informed that WANEP-Gambia had recently concluded a pilot project
on small arms control in the Kantora District of the Upper River Region. The
residents of Koina village and its satellite villages are beneficiaries of
development projects initiated with exchange for the registration and surrender
of their small arms and light weapons for ultimate destruction by the
appropriate Authorities,” he said. He concluded that WANEP-Gambia is a real and
effective partner in the fight against the proliferation of small arms and light
weapons within the communities, the overall maintenance of peace, security
and stability of the country.
WHO COUNTRY COOPERATION STRATEGY VALIDATED
By Sarjo Camara Singhateh
The World Health Organisation-Gambia office organised a consensus building
workshop on the Second Generation Country Cooperation Strategy for The Gambia
from 2008-2012 at the Kairaba Beach Hotel.
Speaking at the meeting the WHO representative to The Gambia, Dr. Nestor
Shivute, said that “We in the World Health Organisation and the health sector at
large believe and indeed recognise that health is a very complex concept the
attainment of which goes beyond health alone.”
He said most of the determinants of health are beyond the perimeters of our
hospital, our health centres and our clinics.
“Hence, it is therefore fitting to bring a group as diverse as this one to
discuss our Country Cooperation Strategy (CCS) with The Gambia for the coming
six years.” he noted.
He said they have contacted the people during the early days of the CCS
formulation process a couple of months ago to sound their opinions on the role of
WHO and how it could conduct its business more effectively for health
development in The Gambia.
“We had very good suggestions, information and recommendations during these
interactive discussions which form the basis of our discussion today.” He
stated.
Speaking on behalf of the SoS for Health, the Permanent Secretary Mr.
Sulayman Samba, said that “It is a known fact that the biggest partner to
government and the leading donor for health in this country is the WHO.”
He said that in this regard the CCS is more or less a strategy that the
government of the Gambia can call its own. The process for the preparation of the
CCS was done with the active participation of my Department of State. “A
senior staff member of DOSH was part of the WHO group that went round to consult
the key stakeholders in health.” he remarked.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the WHO representative said all the
contributions will be put into consideration. He thanked participants for honouring
their invitation.
Attorney General, Inspector General Of Police Sued
By Modou Jonga
One Fatou Bojang has filed a civil suit at the Brikama Magistrates Court
before Magistrate Njie against the Attorney General (first defendant), Inspector
General of Police (second defendant), Inspector Lamin Jallow (Third
defendant), Jarra Sonko (fourth defendant) and Kawsu Fadera (fifth defendant).
According to the particulars of the claim, the first, second and third
defendants are sued for the sum of D450,000.00 (four hundred and fifty thousand
dalasis), being damages for unlawful detention of the plaintiff and her Opel
Frontera vehicle, registration number BJL 1986E from the periods May 31 2007 to
date without lawful authority.
The plaintiff is also seeking the sum of D75, 000.00 from Jarra Sonko, being
damages for the unlawful seizure of her bed, dressing table and a three door
ward-rope valued at D14, 000 (fourteen thousand dalasis) without lawful
authority from the periods August 28, 2006 to date, thereby depriving her of
their use.
The sum of D150,000.00 (one hundred and fifty thousand dalasis) against the
fifth defendant, Kawsu Fadera, being damages for assaulting and causing her
harm, pain, embarrassment, humiliation and suffering in public. The counsel
for the plaintiff is Lawyer Lamin Jobarteh.
Africa: Progress or Retrogress
By Yaya Bajo
It is quite disheartening to see that the name of our beloved continent,
Africa has been synonymous to wars, diseases and poverty. Quite often a day
passed without hearing on the radio or seeing on the screen incidents of
political topsy-turvy, refugees or internally displaced people with exposed ribs and
naked breasts or migrating youths with little hope of reaching their
destinations. It is also not uncommon to see or hear outbreaks of life threatening
disease on the continent like Ebola virus, HIV/AIDS, cholera to name but a few.
Interestingly enough, most of these unfortunate scenarios that have
continued to plague our dear motherland is nothing but self inflicting. For instance,
take the current state of affairs in countries like Somalia, democratic
republic of Congo, Chad, Nigeria’s Niger Delta region and worst of all the
Sudanese region of Darfur. The inhabitants of these countries or regions are most
of the time utterly helpless and hopeless who always wait for the benevolence
of the west.
The children and women in these war-torn areas who no doubt always bear the
brunt of the turmoil live in perpetual starvation with flies on their eyelids
and pot bellies which result to severe malnutrition thus, making their
dramatic moments completely ruined.
However, the perpetrators of these heinous crimes on our continent are
citizens of nowhere but Africa. Their act is tantamount to nothing but cruelty,
barbarism and cannibalism. Their “work” has contributed tremendously to the
retardation of all meaningful socio-economic developments on our continent.
Development projects have been grossly interrupted or out rightly stagnated
hence, fuel the rate of poverty on the continent. In fact, it is sad to note at
this juncture that at the time of writing this article, media report stated
that about seventy people have been gruesomely massacred in Somalia. This
unparallel wave of turmoil across the continent is rather retrogressive instead of
forging ahead in this era of globalization.
Children, who are the future generation, are deprived of basic education,
health and protection in these war-torn areas. Educational institutions in
these places are either completely devastated or used as settlements for
internally displaced people. School children are either killed in crossfire or
abducted and used as child soldiers, and their female counterparts are kidnapped
and served as sexual slaves for the so-called warlords. These children become
immensely hopeless and their future turned gloom. They end up becoming
destitute unless they are rehabilitated.
Furthermore, health care service in this war ravaged countries remained
sub-standard as lots of people die every day because they can’t afford to see a
doctor or nurse or even to acquire basic health care simply because of poverty.
Not-with-standing, you can hardly come across inhabitants, particularly
women and children of these areas who are not suffering from health problems like
yaws, Ebola fever or sexually transmissible infections.
However, this beautiful endowed continent with over fifty countries and 900
million inhabitants deserve peace and tranquility, education, economic and
social empowerment and good governance in order to serve as a catalyst for
achieving a developed Africa. Indeed, this can be achieved in many ways, but it
needs concerted efforts and partnership with the rest of the international
community.
First and foremost, we the Africans have to take the bull by the horn and
accept the fact that our problem has to be solved by ourselves. We need to do
away with senseless wars and focus on consolidating democracy, good governance
and socio-economic advancement for the benefit of all and sundry.
Additionally, the richest countries need to stem the arms trade to Africa
and further redouble their efforts if they are to deliver on their promises to
fight against war and poverty in Africa. While progress has been made on debt
and aid, trade imbalances between Africa and the rest of the world remain
ugly. Also the international community ought to give more help to fight
corruption that affect the poor. They should also give more help to countries
suffering from wars, disasters or extreme poverty.
In conclusion, I subscribe to the fact that “it is easy to help Africa do
nothing. The only people who can really help the Africans are the Africans
themselves”.
Dutch Philanthropist Donates To BHC
By Modou Jonga
On Tuesday 6 November 2007, a Dutch Philanthropist, Y T Yongman, donated
medical items worth over £750 to the Brikama Health Centre in the Western
Region. Speaking at the presentation at the Brikama Health Centre, Mr. Masanneh
Badjie, Development Officer of the Brikama Area Council, said this donation is
the second of its kind to the Health facility by the same Dutch
philanthropist. Mr. Badjie expressed delight over the fruitful partnership that existed
between the council and the dutch philanthropist which resulted to such
donation of medical items. The BAC development officer further noted the council’s
resolve in working with the Dutch Philanthropist.
On his part, the Head of the out-patient unit of the health centre, Mr.
Kebba Kinteh, described the donation as noble and benevolent and expressed his
hope that it continues. Mr. Kinteh assured the donor that the donated items
will be put into good use.
Also speaking after handing over of the donated medical item, which includes
bandages, sterile amongst other item, the dutch philanthropist noted her
delight in donating the Health Centre as a contribution toward the development
of the Health sector. Madam Yongman thus noted her willingness and commitment
to continue donating to the health centres in the region.
Present at the presentation ceremony were staff of the Brikama Health
Centre, staff of the Area Council and the Gambian partners of the dutch
philanthropist, Mr. Ebrima Sanneh and Amadi Faal.
MARRIAGE AND FAMILY
THE WIFE BATTERER
Part 5
By Amie Sillah
Dawda Fights Back
Dave is Gibril’s employer. He decided to fight back. “Gibril struck the
Tiger’s tail. I’ll deal with him.” He swore. He searched and saw Gibril’s
appointment letter. He gleed.
Dawda Checks Gibril’s House
Dave checked on Gibril’s house. “He had transferred about three months ago.”
A tenant told Dave. “Where to?” “I don’t know.” Lena said.
Dave And Abdou
Dave came to his house and confronted his gateman, Abdou. He threatened him.
“Where is Gibril? Why does he live? I went to his house and they said he had
transferred. To where? I may ask” “I am not sure but he gave me an address.
We can check it out.” “Let’s go and be fast about it. “Dave ordered.
The Duo Come To Gibril’s House
They came a little bit late. He went out fifteen minutes earlier to sell his
plasma TV. They missed him. Dave swore and cursed Gibril. “I’ll get him. He
bites the finger that feeds him.” Then he aggressively threatened Abdou. “I’
ll cut off your head if you tell Gibril I came looking for him. I am at your
back. I have eyes looking and ears on the ground. Be warned!”
Gibril Visits Rama
Gibril visited Rama at the hospital. He paid for extra days and bought her
more medicine. He came to the ward to check on Rama. As soon as she saw him,
she went into convulsions. She is now men-phobic. She fears the presence of
men. Gibril went out and came back into the ward. Rama saw him and screamed.
The doctor and nurses came running into Rama’s room. The doctor and nurses
calmed her down. She did not recognise Gibril. The doctor counseled her. “This is
your ‘husband’. He is devoted to you. He had paid your bills and have
bought all your medicine. He loves and adores you.” Rama stared at the ceiling
motionless. Doctor reassured Gibril. “She will be fine. Just be more patient
with her. This is temporary lost of memory.” Gibril shook his head and showed
love, care and understanding.
Abdou Informs Gibril
When Gibril came back from the hospital he met Abdou waiting for him. He
told him everything. “Move out from here. Dave is after you. He came with the
police to arrest you. I’ll be dead if Dave knows that I disclose this
information to you. I cannot go back to him. He will kill me.” Gibril offered to house
Abdou and find him a job. It was a good deal for Abdou.
Discussing With Rama
Gibril came back and found Rama in a cool mood. He discussed with her but
still Rama could not remember anything. He showed her Dave’s picture. “I am
sorry I lied to the clinic authorities that I am your husband just to make it
convenient for you. They would have consulted your tormentor and he will come
back for you. I lied to save your life. This man,” he showed her Dave’s
picture. “Is looking for you at all cost. He wants you back to continue tormenting
you and for me to put me in jail.” Rama started acting funny. “Am I
pregnant? Did I have sex with you? Are you rich?” She asked repeated questions to
Gibril. He was shy but he answered all of them. “You have been admitted to this
private clinic for nine days now. You are not pregnant. I never have sex
with you and I am not rich. I am a driver to your husband Dave.” Rama knocked
her head and still could not remember anything. She went into deep sleep.
Gibril allowed her to have a snap.
Dave Is Worried
He shown the IGP Gibril’s picture. “Okay! I’ll post his picture to all
stations. My men will get him.” “I want to find my wife.” Dave emphasised.
Under Surveillance
Gibril’s house was put under surveillance three days later. Still Rama has
no memory. There was more pressure on Gibril’s finances. He had virtually sold
all his valuables to foot Rama’s clinic bill. He has to find a reasonable
motel to house her when she is discharged. Rama cannot still remember anything.
It was now a great risk if caught. He have to exercise more caution.
They Move Into A Motel
Gibril found a good motel to accommodate the three of them. Rama got into
tantrums. She assaulted Gibril seeing him as an enemy. She is now man phobic.
Gibril have to restrain her and talk sense into her. “I was your husband’s
driver. He molested you. I came in time and saved your life. You stayed in
hospital for a fortnight. You cannot molest me. You have to appreciate my efforts.
” Rama gave a shrilling yell like thunder. Two security guards of the Motel
came running the stairs to enquire what was happening. They found Abdou on
sentry. They thought it a rape case. Abdou laughed at them. “The couples are
enjoying themselves. That’s how they copulate in my part of the country. There
is yelling during ectasy.” He lied. There was quietness. He confirmed his
point. “Don’t you see it? There is quietness when they reach orgasm.” One of the
guards was not convinced. He wanted to linger on a bit but the other laughed
at him. “Leave the man to enjoy his wife! Let’s go to our sentry post.” He
dragged him away.
Gibril went on talking sense into Rama. “I cared for you all these days. You
are saved with me. I am a friend in need. You are loved and you are saved.
Why do you attack me? I am harmless. Trust me. I’ll make you escape from your
sadist husband. Do you trust me?” Gibril searched through Rama’s eyes. She
nodded yes. And agreed to Gibril’s plan to make her escape.
Sheriff Minteh’s Murder Trial Adjourned
By Musa Barrow
The murder trial involving the State and Dodou Janneh, the accused, has been
adjourned following the absence of the trial Magistrate, Buba Jawo of the
Bundung Magistrate Court on Tuesday 13 November 2007.
The trial has been adjourned to a further date. Foroyaa has observed that in
the last thirty days, this trial has been adjourned on four occasions. The
absence of the presiding magistrate delayed the trial twice, while the failure
of police prosecutor and counsels to appear also served as a catalyst for
the adjournment of the trial.
Dodou Janneh is standing trial for allegedly murdering Sheriff Minteh. The
untimely death of Sheriff Minteh led to riots in Serrekunda.
Malaria Research Network Launched
By Bubacarr K. Sowe and Fabakary B. Ceesay
The Africa Media and Malaria Research Network (AMMREN) Gambia chapter has
been launched on Tuesday, November 13, at the National Nutrition Agency (NaNA)
in Bakau.
AMMREN is a consortium of scientists and journalists who are focusing their
attention on the malaria menace across Africa.
Dr. Momodou Jasseh, a demographer and head of the Medical Research Council
Farafenni Field Site, said they are currently collaborating with the
University of Oxford and with Glaxo Smith Klein on the development and testing of a
candidate vaccine called RTS, S/ASO2A.
“Clinical trials to date have shown that this vaccine can give 18 months
protection to children who are the most susceptible group. Further large scale
trials are being planned in Africa,” Dr. Jasseh said.
Alagie Saikou Janneh, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Department of State
for Health, said malaria is a leading killer disease which is more
threatening to children and women.
Mr. Janneh said MRC has vast experience on malaria that can be explored by
AMMREN for the benefit of the public.
Charity Binka, in a Statement read on her behalf, said the network provides
a common platform for Africa journalists and scientists to work together to
eradicate malaria, which is endemic in most parts of the continent and is the
number one killer of children under five. “The main objectives of AMMREN are
to disseminate accurate information on malaria control and treatment, promote
sharing of research findings between journalists, monitor implementation of
malaria policies, and lobby policy makers to fast track international
agreements on malaria control,” Binka said.
Pa Modou Faal, country coordinator of AMMREN said they are here to work with
partners including government in order to ensure a malaria free environment.
Seed Policy In The Offing
By Amie Sanneh
The Secretary of State for Agriculture, Kanja Sanneh, has said The Gambia
has been battled with challenges posed by food insecurity in recent times. This
he said threatens many of the communities. The SoS was speaking on Monday at
the Paradise Suites Hotel during the opening ceremony of a one-day forum on
the validation of the draft National Seed Policy.
Although, he added there have been national causes of food insufficiency,
the major part of the situation can be traced to serious shortcomings that
exist in crop production capabilities.
SoS Sanneh said varied interventions are required to address these
shortcomings.
“The provision of high quality seeds of the key crops that suits the varying
agro-ecologies of nations is the most crucial intervention,” he said.This he
noted demands concerted efforts at enhancing the development of the seed in
all its components.
SoS Sanneh said modern Science and Technology has brought immense benefits
to the seed sector by allowing the potential impact of seed on food production
to be more pronounced than before. “In Africa, we seem not to have been able
to take full advantage of the recent advances in seed sector development,”
he said.
The SoS explained that inadequate supply of quality seed, lack of access to
improved germplasm, inadequate implementation of seed policies, international
agreements and conventions is a result of weak seed production and
distribution.
The Secretary of State for Agriculture described seed as a crucial and
critical element in the livelihood of agricultural communities.
He said without seed, there could be no agriculture. He said if efforts
towards food security are to remain credible, there needs to be strong seed
security.
He added that food security is so heavily dependent on seed security.
SoS Sanneh remarked that when seed is of required quality, the potential
benefits could be enormous. This he noted will enhance productivity as well as
income and drought tolerance.
Commenting on the policy, he said a seed policy drafting taskforce has been
set up.
SoS Sanneh posited that the policy must provide a well defined and stable
framework for the development of an effective and sustainable seed sector. The
policy he added should also create an environment fostering cooperation among
all stakeholders and partners to ensure a comprehensive, balanced and
orderly growth of the seed industry.
SoS Sanneh pointed out that one of the key steps in the creation through a
national seed policy is the creation of an environment conducive for the
orderly growth and comprehensive development of the seed industry.
He urged participants to discuss all the provisions in the policy and ensure
that it is of utmost relevance to The Gambia.
The Agric Secretary of State noted that useful comments from the forum and
an update draft will receive further clearance through circulation among major
partners, cabinets colleagues etc will be formally adopted and published. He
explained that International Development in the seed industry are dynamic.
He noted that some present great opportunities for them while others place
them at a disadvantage. The policy SoS Sanneh went on, should motivate and allow
them to take advantage of the best opportunities in the wider world. He
added that it will also guide them to develop the needed protection against
negative trends which threatens us. The National Seed Policy is expected to come
into effect as of 1st April 2008. The tenets of the policy shall have long
term application and shall continue in force indefinitely, until specifically
modified under provisions of the policy.
Banjul: Bringing Back the Glory Days
By Modou Nyang and Sulayman Bah
Banjul are bent on reviving the old days when they reigned supreme in the
Zonal/Super Nawettan competition.
The City Boys has in the past enjoyed much of the glory in the history of
the Super Nawettan competition winning it most until Serrekunda East outdone
them in the last few years. And this is what the new look Banjul Sports
Committee BAC, want to see a change to and have has made winning this years title
their target. With the likes of Ebou Dubois, Amara Sarjo (Oga), Dodou Jaw, Bai
Omar Samba and Saul Faye, Banjul cruised over opponents with relative ease in
the Zonal/Super Nawettan competition. Serrekunda East led by Jatto and Co
were the only side that some times stood in front of proud city dwellers.
“The problem of Banjul over [recent] years is that we had players who either
play in the 2nd division or no divisional [football at all]. But this year
the backbone of the team is made of 1st division players. So we are hopeful
that we will have a good side, it is just a question of the team doing well in
[our] first match which will determine the course of [our progress], said
Ebou Faye Secretary General of the BSC.
“This year Alagie Sillah is the coach [and] supported by kebba Njie (Bacher)
together with Omar Joof and Luke and our target is to win the trophy,
because we were challenged by the SoS for Youth and Sports (Mass Axi Gai) that we
should bring back the glory days”, faye added. “Alagie Sillah is a senior
coach, one of the most senior in the country, he is a Banjulian and he loves
Banjul that is why he decided to come out and take over the team because most of
the coaches we selected [earlier] are those coaching the Nawettan teams. He
is very passionate about his job”.
Banjul crashed out of the Super Nawettan in the group stage last year
failing to win a single game against supposed minnows Brikama, Sukuta and Gunjur.
They conceding 9 goals scoring only once against Gunjur and that poor showing
by the hitherto invincible Banjul was blamed on the failure turn to up by
many of the senior players selected to represent them at the competition. And to
avoid any such humiliation, the BSC this time ensured that they get all
their big guns together and even faced a tough task to trim the squad to the
required 25 players as a result of high turnout of players.
Faye continued: “We Struggled last year because of that (lack of player
turnout) but this year is different it is a rule that any player who is selected
must report to training [and] if you don’t you will be suspended from playing
in the Banjul Nawettan. The objective is to have one Banjul team that will
compete for Banjul, so any player who wants to play in the Banjul Nawettan
must be prepared to play for the Banjul team.
“All of them [of those invited] reported to training, [now] we have few
senior players who are going to lead the team this year so the challenge is
bigger this year than last and we see Banjul doing well looking at it from a
technical point of view. [So] we are going all out to win”.
Gambia Foreign Stars Roundup
By Modou Nyang
Njogu Demba and Mustapha kamal Ndow found the back of the net for their
respective clubs over the weekend and most of the other players’ picked-up points
with their sides, as we look at another week of action by Gambian
footballers abroad.
Austria – Modou Jagne and Pa Saikou Kujabi both picked up points in their
respective matches over the weekend. Pa Saikou’s SV Josko Fenster Ried ended a
two match miserable run of form picking a point in a goalless draw at home to
SK Sturm Graz on Saturday. Whilst Jagne’s SCR Altach made it 1-1 against
bottom placed FC Wacker Tirol. Kujabi did not feature for Ried, whilst Jagne was
an unused substitute for Altach.
Belgium – Assan Jatta started his second consecutive league match for club
K. Lierse SK along side teammate Mustapha Jarjue on Saturday with the Belgian
Second division side playing out a goalless draw at home to KVSK United.
Jatta was however substituted in the 90th minute whilst Jarjue ended the match.
Lierse will play against A. FC. Tubize today in advance of the weekend
international break.
In the other side of the Belgian 2nd division league uncapped Gambian star
striker Ebrima Sawaneh was again voted the man of the match for his club KSK
Beveren, as they picked all three points for the second time in row. Ibou was
at hand to help Beveren defeat KFCV Geel 1-0 at their home ground.
Cyprus – in the Cyprus Division A, leggy Gambia striker Mustapha Kamal Ndow
on Sunday scored for his club Doxa Katokopia FC early in the first half but
his side could not hold on to their advantage as AEL Limassol fought back to
win 2-1 at home.
Denmark – stylish Scorpions’ striker Njogu Demba scored in the 53rd minute
to help his club Esbjerg FB to a 3-1 away win over Lyngby BK on Sunday.
England – Edrissa Sonko’s English league 1 side Walsall were 2-0 winners in
the 1st round of the FA Cup against league 2 side Shrewsbury Town on
Saturday. Sonko was cautioned in the 53rd minute of the match before he was
substituted in the 60th minute. Walsall will now face either Darlington or
Northampton Town in the second round.
Holland – in the Dutch Eerste Divisie (2nd Division) veteran Scorpoins’
players Jatto Ceesay and Ebou Sillah were both defeated in their weekend
matches. Sillah’s MVV Maastricht lost to 1-0 at home to Go Ahead Eagles whilst Ceesay
’s FC Omniworld lost 2-1 away to Helmond Sport, all on Friday. Maastricht
will now face FC Den Bosch in their next fixture on Friday whilst Omniworld
takes on FC Volendam on the same day.
Norway – the Norwegian league has already ended but the reigning champions –
Tijan Jaiteh’s SK Brann are searching yet for another glory. Brann played a
brave1-1 draw away to French league 1 side Rennes in the UEFA Cup last
Thursday. Jaiteh was however not involved in the match but the Tippeligaen
champions scored first shocking the much fancied French side and the homers only
managed to level the score from the penalty spot in the dying minutes of the
game. Brann will play their next match at home against Dinamo Zagreb on Thursday
29th November.
Peru – Yankuba Ceesay alias Mal played all ninety minutes in club, Alianza
Atlético weekend defeat to Sport Ancash on Sunday. Alianza managed to pull
back two goals in the 3-2 defeat late-on in a match which both sides ended with
10 on the field.
UAE – the United Arab Emirates Ettesalat League is once again in an extended
brake meaning Scorpions’ whiz-kid Ousman Jallow, will sit out without
playing a competitive match until 26th November.
USA – Sainey Nyassi and Abdoulie Mansally are enjoying their first season
with club, New England Revolution despite still warming the bench. The young
Gambian duo are through to MLS Cup final (the league decider) with Revolution
wining the Eastern Conference championship against the Chicago Fire. The Revs
will now travel to the capital (Washington DC) on Sunday for the final to
decider who is crowned the champions of 2007 Major League Soccer.
Super Nawettan: Bakau & Banjul Squares Up Today
By Modou Nyang
Hostilities in the annual Super Nawettan competition will open today with
Banjul and Bakau renewing their age long hot football rivalry at the Serrekunda
East playing grounds.
Defending champions Serrekunda East make the short trip to Serrekunda West
were they test it out with 2005 winners Sukuta in the other fixture of the
day. Banjul who made a shock exit from the competition last year are leaving
nothing to chance in their efforts to avoid the recurrence of last year’s
humiliation.
The City Boys were the weeping boys in their group last year falling 4-0
victims at the hands of Brikama in their first match and Sukuta were only a goal
short in repeating the same scoreline in their second match. Facing early
exit from the competition, Banjul scored their first and only goal of the
competition as the again lost 2-1 to unfancied Gunjur in their last match.
Bakau on the other hand will be seeking to better their lot in the history
of the Super Nawettan competition having failed to make the final last year
after succumbing to 1-0 defeat to Brikama at the semifinal level.
The other matches on Thursday will feature Serrekunda West against Lamin at
the Serrekunda East ground and Gunjur take on Brikama at the West ground.
Gambia know Zone II Opponents
By Modou Nyang
Gambia has been drawn in Group B for this year’s Zone II Amilcar Cabral
championship slated to start from November 30th to December 10th in the Guinea
Bissau.
The Scorpions’ were drawn alongside defending Champions Guinea Conakry, Mali
and Cape Verde. The biannual competition that features eight countries
categorised Zone II, was last hosted by Guinea in 2005 and the Cyli National won
it for the fifth time.
The Gambia who last hosted the tournament in 1997 is yet to win the
sub-regional championship failing thrice at the last huddle against Senegal on all
occasions. The Teranga Lions of Senegal have won the competition most, claiming
it a record 8 times. The Zone II title has only evaded The Gambia and
Mauritania out of the eight countries in the zone since its inception in 1979.
Scorpions’ head Coach Jose Martinez and assistant Lamin Sarr have assembled
a pool of home based players who have been training together for the since
last month. The technicians are expected to name final list of 22 players for
the tournament by at least next week.
The other group for the championship includes host country Guinea Bissau and
Mauritania, together with Senegal and Sierra Leone.
The Zone II Amilcar Cabral football tournament is name after the
revolutionary freedom fighter Amilcar Cabral, who led Guinea Bissau in a fierce armed
struggle against Portuguese colonialism. Cabral was assassinated in the Guinean
Capital Conakry, by Portuguese mercenaries just before Guinea Bissau won
their independence.
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