Foroyaa Newspaper Burning Issues
Issue No. 35/2008, 26 - 27 March 2008
Editorial
What Is Daily Observer Up To?
What is Daily Observer up to? In their very first publication after the GPU
Congress, they are calling for a split in the GPU. The Managing Director has
even gone to the extent of threatening to do away with the services of Buya
Jammeh, unless he resigns from the GPU executive board.
This attitude of the Daily Observer management has strengthened the
suspicion of many that Daily Observer and possibly some hidden hands are displeased
with the positions of the GPU on many issues.
Let us examine what the Daily Observer Managing Director said before and
after the congress. In an interview with The Point just before the congress he
said: “I have no agenda for the GPU. If they want to be with the government it
is left to them. If they want to be anti development it is their problem,
but if they want to be with the Americans it is their business.”
The GPU is neither anti-government, pro government nor pro – American. It is
not a political organisation. It is a pro media organisation. The concerns
of the GPU are the concerns of its members – training, freedom of expression,
reasonable working condition. These are the cries of media practitioners,
irrespective of where they are employed – whether at FOROYAA, GRTS, Daily
Observer, The Point, etc. We need to unite around common issues and pursue those
issues for our common interest.
The MD also told The Point “I cannot advise any journalist on whom to vote
for. If they want Madi Ceesay to continue, let them vote for him by all means.”
However, immediately after the congress, this is what he told Foroyaa: Buya
Jammeh (who writes for Daily Observer) should not have opted for a position,
instead he should have supported Lamin Dibba, Abdoulie John and Ebrima Jaw
Manneh (all of Daily Observer).
Well, as can be seen, his first position is different from the latter. But
let us assume that the second position was an overreaction due to frustration
that the persons he wanted elected were not elected. What he needs to do now
is to be tempered and that through time common sense will prevail.
To conclude, media workers at Daily Observer and GRTS should bear in mind
that supporting a divided union, especially one that will be singing praises to
the state is definitely not in their interest. That would be like tightening
the noose round one’s neck. Don’t forget that it was not Daily Observer and
GRTS that stood up when the Dodou Sannehs, the Chief Mannehs, the Malick
Mboobs and others were detained.
There is no security of tenure as far as employment by the state is
concerned, no matter how loyal one may be to the ruling party. Some have risen to the
pinnacle of power and have not only fallen from grace but have found
themselves at Mile 2. Beware!
Fraud Investigation At Banjul Breweries
By Saikou Ceesay
Reports reaching Foroyaa have it that the police are currently investigating
a fraud case involving D2,645,154 at the Banjul Breweries.
The reports revealed that one Mr. Joshua Wilson Jones, an accountant, and
four other junior accountants, were apprehended and detained for questioning
but later released. The police spokesman, Inspector Sulayman Secka, confirmed
the incident and noted that the suspects were granted police bail, but Mr.
Joswua Wilson could not meet the bail condition. He said that Mr. Wilson Jones
is helping the police in their investigation, while the four junior
accountants and seven dealers are currently reporting at the fraud squad.
Seyone Alkaloship Crisis Deepens
By Modou Jonga
The crisis, as a result of the recent suspension of the village head of
Seyone, in the Kombo Central District, is deepening, as villagers intensify their
opposition to the new village head, Mr. Kebba Jatta. The Alkaloship crisis
erupted following the suspension of Mr. Fabakary Badjie, as Alkalo of Seyone,
in the aftermath of the Local Government Elections. Sources indicate that Mr.
Badjie was suspended by the Governor of Western Region, Mr. Abdou FM Badjie.
According to sources, the reason for the suspension of Mr. Badjie is yet to
be disclosed by the concerned authorities, however, residents alleged that it
is political.
Speaking to Foroyaa, some residents of Seyone said they did not know the
reason for the suspension of Mr. Badjie and noted that they are resolved to
challenge the said suspension. Residents said the replaced village head is
endorsed by them as he is a symbol of unity in Seyone.
According to the residents, they have petitioned the Regional Governor and
the Chief of Kombo Central, since February 2008, but that the duo are yet to
reply to their petition. They pointed out that they have vehemently rejected
Mr. Jatta as their Alkalo and urged the concerned authorities to reinstate Mr.
Badjie.
In a related development, the residents of Dimbaya village, also in Kombo
Central, have disclosed that they too have petitioned the Governor and Chief on
the suspension of their Alkalo, shortly after the said elections in which an
Independent candidate won. The villagers said that they had rejected the new
village head Mr. Alhagie Jammeh who was appointed to replace the former
Alkalo, Burama Colley. They noted that they will continue to voice out their
opposition of the Alkaloship of Jammeh, until the suspension of Mr. Colley is
reversed by the concerned authorities.
When contacted the District Chief of Kombo Central, Mr. Bakary Satang
Bojang, confirmed the suspension of Mr. Badjie and Colley as village heads. Chief
Bojang could not reveal the reason for the suspension of Messrs. Badjie and
Colley and has denied receiving any petition from the residents of the said two
villages.
Leave GPU Or Quit Daily Observer – Observer MD
By Musa Barrow
Buya Jammeh, a reporter for the Daily Observer, has alleged that he has been
told by the Daily Observer Managing Director, Dida Halake, to either resign
from his position as a co-opted member of the GPU Executive or lose his
position as an Observer reporter.
Mr. Buya Jammeh, who has been recently elected as co-opted member of the
Gambia Press Union Executive Board, said he received a call from the Observer
boss, on Monday, 24 March, 2008 at about 9.51pm, enquiring whether he (Buya
Jammeh) has got a new job. According to him, he responded to him by saying that
he was just elected as a co-opted member of the Gambia Press Union Executive
Board.
However, Jammeh explained that on the following day, Tuesday, when he
returned to work, he was turned back by the paper’s Managing Director, Mr. Halake.
Reacting to this move of being turned away by the Observer boss, Mr. Buya
Jammeh explicitly told this reporter that he rather prefers to forgo his
Observer job than to betray the cause of his fellow journalists, who have entrusted
him with a responsibility. According to Buya, serving Gambia Press Union is
his fundamental human right, which no one can take away from him.
Buya Jammeh said that Dida Halake also claimed that the recently held GPU
election was flawed.
The managing director of the Daily Observer, Dida Halake chastised the
Foroyaa Newpaper and the Gambia Press Union. He said the Foroyaa organised a coup d
’etat at the GPU office by registering drivers, but he failed to back his
claims by mentioning the name of any driver. Asked whether he did ask Buya
Jammeh to resign from the GPU or quit the Observer, Mr. Halake responded in the
affirmative. He said if the GPU was serious, it should have elected bona fide
editors of the Observer such as Lamin Dibba, Abdoulie John and Ebrima Jaw
Manneh, who, he claimed were in the news business for a long time, but not to
pick up an irrelevant person (Buya Jammeh) from the street to represent the
Observer. The Observer boss said that Buya Jammeh should not have opted for a
position in the first place and instead should have supported Dibba, John and
Jaw Manneh, who were vying for positions. He said Buya’s action is improper
as he is just a mere a freelance reporter and has no business with the
Observer
Mr. Buya Jammeh is a freelance reporter who has previously worked with the
shuttered Independent newspaper.
The Gambia Press Union
Fifth Triennial Congress 2008
RESOLUTION
Bearing in mind that the power, integrity and vigour of the GPU rest on its
strength;
Being aware that the GPU derives its strength and vitality from its clarity
of vision and the unity, participation and support of the mass of its
membership;
Being conscious that a constitution should always meet the demands of the
time;
Concerned about the frequent detention, harassment, assault and unfair
dismissal of journalists and the attacks and closure of media houses;
Conscious that the GPU and The Gambia Government are partners in the
development of the media that need to engage in dialogue;
Convinced that the payment of subscription will encourage interest in the
GPU;
We the participants of the fifth triennial Congress hereby resolve as
follows:
1. Members are urged to take ownership of the union and in this
regard they should actively participate in its activities, especially,
monthly meetings.
2. The GPU Executive Committee should show greater concern and play a
greater role in solving the problems of media practitioners and other media
workers at their place of work.
3. A constitutional review committee should review the constitution of the
GPU and draft a new constitution to meet the demands of the time within six
months. The draft shall circulate within media institutions for at least
three months for the reaction of members before a final draft is prepared for
adoption at the next annual congress. The amended constitution shall take into
account the replacement of executive committee members of the GPU who have
either left the union or travelled out of the country.
4. The Executive Committee shall do its utmost to ensure the unity of the
media fraternity
5. The Executive Committee shall endeavour to effect the vialibility of
media houses through economic management, elimination of sales tax and import
duty and other measures.
6. The GPU Executive shall be pro-active and vigorous in its defence of
freedom of expression and freedom of the press in particular.
7. The GPUs Executive Committee shall strive as much as it can to engage
the government in dialogue in the pursuit of its aims and objectives.
8. Members of the GPU shall be encouraged to authorize their
employers to deduct their monthly subscriptions from their monthly salaries for
payment to the GPU.
WORLD TB DAY
(WHO Regional Director’s Message)
MESSAGE OF THE REGIONAL DIRECTOR ON THE OCCASION OF WORLD TUBERCULOSIS DAY
2008 24 March 2008
THEME: “I AM STOPPING TB”
Read by: WHO Representative to The Gambia, Dr. Nestor Shivuti
Today, 24 March, is World TB Day. It is a day when we remember the momentous
discovery of the tuberculosis bacillus by Robert Koch in 1886. This was a
discovery that brought hope for the eventual containment of the disease that
until then was untreatable. Indeed, effective treatment became available not
too long after, and it is now widely available throughout the world.
Unfortunately, over 120 years later, TB remains a major public health
problem in the world, and the African Region contributes about 25% of all TB cases
every year though accounting for 11% of the world population. Member States
affirm African leadership in addressing priority health problems, including
TB, and the directly-observed treatment short-course Control programmes are
being implemented in all countries. However, notified TB cases have continued to
increase. During 2006, over 1.3 million TB cases were notified in the
African Region compared to 1.1 million cases in 2005. Increases were particularly
noted in countries where HIV prevalence is high.
Considering the World Health Assembly global targets for TB control in the
Region, 10 countries have attained the 70% case detection rate and 8 have
attained the 85% treatment success rate. Only one Member State attained both
targets.
The WHO Regional Committee for Africa passed a resolution declaring TB an
emergency and also adopted a regional strategy for the control of the dual
epidemic of TB and HIV/AIDS. The resolution calls for accelerated DOTS expansion,
and improved case detection and cure rates. The strategy aims to promote the
scaling up of joint TB/HIV interventions as part of routine care for
patients with either disease. It is gratifying that screening for HIV among TB cases
has almost doubled from 141 000 in 2005 to 289 000 in 2006; 75% screening
has been achieved in a few countries in the African Region.
Although the true burden of drug-resistant TB in the Region largely remains
unknown, cases have been identified wherever surveys have been undertaken.
Reports from 39 countries in 2007 confirmed existence of 5990 multi
drug-resistant TB cases in 22 countries and 395 extensively drug-resistant TB cases in 4
Countries. Many others may be passing undetected due to lack of diagnostic
capacity in many countries.
The slogan for this year’s World TB Day is “I am Stopping TB”. The slogan
emphasizes the fact that everyone can do something to stop the spread of TB
and that every individual’s action counts. It also underlines the collective
responsibility o(‘ all individuals and Member States as part of the world
community to bring TB under control. The first action should be to encourage those
persons with cough lasting 3 weeks or more to seek medical attention.
The Regional Office will continue to collaborate with regional and
international partners to provide technical support to countries to promote and ensure
the scaling up of effective TB control interventions. Such efforts will
reduce suffering and death from an old, prevailing disease that is Curable.
I am stopping TB, are you?
PURA Launches Health Promotion and Safety At Work
By Saikou Ceesay
A forum, geared towards ensuring effective Health and Safety practices
within regulated utilities, on Tuesday, kicked off at the Paradise Suites Hotel.
In his Presentation, the Director General of the Public Utilities Regulatory
Authority (PURA), Alagie B. Gaye said that health and safety is integral to
the core activities of PURA.
He said that, as part of it regulatory responsibilities, PURA intends to
embark on an aggressive campaign to engage and sensitise stakeholders on Health
and Safety issues and that the forum is one of several such activities. Mr.
Gaye said that we are all aware of the fact that hazards are not only limited
to operators, but extend to the general public as users of utility services
such as electricity and water.
“We have seen incidents of fire in residential areas which had no doubt
raised alarms and public concern. These fires, in some cases, were attributed to
poor electricity wiring, cables of poor quality, etc “ he said. Mr. Gaye
noted that in late 2007, they submitted to the electricity sector PURA’s Health
and Safety guidelines; that since then they have seen a gradual
acknowledgement of the need to improve workplace conditions especially in the electricity
sector.
The Permanent Secretary for the Department of State for Health, Mr. Sulayman
Samba, said that the timing of this seminar is excellent, particularly,
given the rapid growth in almost all sectors of the economy, such as
construction, electricity, telecoms. “Thus occupational health standards play key role in
the development of a modern economy and need to be constantly revisited,
reinforced and articulated,” said the Permanent Secretary. He further said that,
although The Gambia is not a heavily industralised country, the level of
awareness of occupational health issues in The Gambia should be regularly
addressed. He also said the seminar is restricted to the sectors PURA regulates;
that the occupational health issues are of great concern to his department of
state from a wider perspective.
“As we all know, a the Department of State for Health and Social Welfare
welcomes and encourages any preventive and behavioral changes, actions that
promote and maintain good health and by implication safety standards too,” he
noted.
The opening remarks were made by the chairman PURA, Board of Commissioners
Mr. Abdoulie Touray.
The effects of electric current on the human body protection methods against
electric shock, fire safety rules and personal protective equipment were
explained in a presentation given by Mr. Moses Campbell of PURA.
Freedom Newspaper Accuses Gamtel of Blockade
By Fabakary B. Ceesay
The Freedom Newspaper, an online newspaper, has accused the Gambia
Telecommunication Company (GAMTEL), of blocking the online paper’s websites’
IP-address, following a story it carried about the company. The paper on March 9,
reported that GAMTEL is on the brink of total bankruptcy due to mismanagement.
For some time now, Gambians have been unable to access the online paper
based in the United States of America. The newspaper is known for its criticism
of President Jammeh’s administration. The paper can now be accessed only
outside the boundaries of the Gambia. They are now pointing a finger at GAMTEL,
the country’s principal internet service provider, for blocking Gambians at
home from accessing its online internet.
Foroyaa spoke to Mr Yaya Manneh of GAMTELS’ internet section for
clarification. Mr. Manneh pointed out that he is not the right channel to speak on that
matter; that he is not entitled to speak to the media. He directed this
reporter to Mr. Amadou Touray. However, several attempts were made to speak to Mr.
Touray but to no avail. He could not be reached through his office and cell
phones. Three visits were also made to GAMTEL to see him but to avail.
This is not the first time the Freedom Newspaper has complained of state
intervention. On May 23, 2005, the Freedom Newspaper and All Gambia, another
online newspaper, were blocked following the hacking of the Freedom Newspaper’s
website, after Daily Observer newspaper published personal details (including
names and phone numbers) of many Gambians. Several people, including five
journalists, were arrested and detained for several days without charge before
being released. The five journalists were Musa Sheriff, Pa Modou Faal, Lamin
Cham, Pa Malick Mboob and Sam Obi. Omar Bah, Daily Observer editor escaped
into exile, when he was declared wanted for his alleged contribution to the
website.
MARRIAGE AND FAMILY
Is She A Fortunate Woman - Part 8
With Amie Sillah
Amanda Rings
Amanda rang. There was no answer. She became upset. “George wants to mess
with me but I’ll show him the kind of turf I am made of. He values his stupid
wife more than me. We shall see.”
There Is Disbelief
Marie could not believe what she has seen. She became suspicious of a foul
play. She called Mandy with her handset.
Mandy Answers
Mandy took the phone and answered. There was no voice. She became frustrated
and bombasted the caller. “Who are you? What do you want? Why are you not
talking? Why are you wasting your credit when you don’t want to talk to me?”
Marie put off her mobile.
Marie Uses George’s Mobile
Marie used George’s mobile to ring Mandy. She became furious. “So George
you refuse to take my call eh! Since your wife came you have been avoiding me.
You know you have to take me to prenatal my time is due. Don’t bring your
wife into my home before she learnt of the pregnancy in a painful shocking way.”
Marie put down the phone shaking. She cried her heart out. “Monkey works
Baboon eats. Look at me! I have clean up my man only for him to be snatched
under my very eyes at the eleventh hour. I knew it! The weekend jobs, the lack of
interest! I knew it. I have never trusted Amanda. My instinct repulsed her.
My instinct is never wrong. George is a naïve fool. He’ll learn the hard way.
My worst fears have been confirmed.”
George Comes Home
George came home relaxed. Marie served him food and asked about Amanda. “Not
again! I told you Mandy is my office cleaner. I am helping her children in
school. She is a widow.” “Really! Are you sure about that?” Marie sound
sarcastic. George became very defensive. Marie became tense. George got confused.
He fears Marie’s mood swings. “Talk to me darling! Spill the beans! What is
eating you up? Speak out and let us resolve it. You came from afar. The mood
swing is not good for either of us.” George argued.
Going Home
Marie packed her luggage and announced that she was going home. “What? Not
now! Give me time to shop for you and the children.” “No! I am going back to
my dear children. They are the only one I have. Let me take better care of
them.” “Talk to me Marie! Talk to me! Say anything! You are suffocating me. Don
’t bear me grudges. Open out! Don’t keep it in you. You are just hurting our
relationship.” Marie pushed George from her way and left abruptly. George
was confused. He could not figure out where he went wrong.
Marie Goes To Mama
Marie went straight to her mom’s home. That’s where she kept her children
when she went to Dakar. Her eyes were red from the consistent sobbing. Mama
was surprised. “What happened? Your eyes are red! Is everything okay with
George? Open up to mom! I am your mother. Lean on me!” Marie opened up. “Mom! I
received the shock of my life. I am surprised and disappointed. I am deeply
hurt. Mama monkey works, baboon eats. Amanda is heavily pregnant for my husband,
George.” “God forbid! How do you know? Who is feeding you with lies? George
is a gentleman. He cannot stoop that low.” Marie sobbed heavily and
continued her narration. “I played trick on Mandy when I suspected foul play. She
opened up in the phone and told me everything thinking I was George. Mom! I am
betrayed by my loving husband of 15 years.” “Wonders shall never end! How
could George do that to you after everything you have done for him? But take
heart my daughter! God is with you. You’ll surely overcome!” Mama cuddled Marie
and gave her courage to shoulder her grief and pain. “We have to go to the
village to inform his parents. This is a serious matter.” Marie felt betrayed.
She thought it a waste of time to go to the village but Mama urged her to go.
George And Amanda
George went to Amanda’s house and found her seated. “What are you doing
here? I thought you have gone to pre-natal.” “Which pre-natal? You should have
taken me and you did not. I cancelled it to wait until your precious wife is
gone. I call you to inform you.” “Call and inform who?” “You, ofcourse!”
George became panicky. “What did I say?” “You said nothing.” “What did you say?
” “I explained everything I thought I was talking to you.” “What! You
selfish beast! You are insensitive and inconsiderate. Only 2 weeks! My wife and
children did not see me for over 7 months. You were all the time with me. Now
only 2 weeks and you could not let my legal wife be. Mandy! You are selfish
and insensitive. No wonder Marie changed her attitude towards me when I came
back into the house. You have destroyed my marriage. You are selfish! You are
inconsiderate!” Mandy pretended to care. “I am sorry darling! I don’t know I
was talking to Marie. I am sorry I don’t mean to hurt her. I needed you
around because of my condition.” George became frustrated and left.
Mandy Is Furious
Mandy is furious. “He cannot leave me. We have gone too far. George! You
cannot leave me. We have to complete our unfinished business. Marie! Am sorry!
It is too late! George is mine!” She soliloquies.
George Is Further Hooked
Amanda became the perfect ‘girl friend’ wife. She did everything to ensure
George lacked nothing. She hypnotized him to totally forget his family.
His Parents Are Shocked
Marie and Mama went to the village to inform George’s parents. They were
shocked with disbelief. They lamented about George’s silly behaviour. “I am put
to a great shame. I am the head of my clan. They are now all laughing at me.
Since I retired from government service I came back to my village to do
farming and some petty trading. I am greatly respected as a decent elder. But look
at what my eldest son have done to me? I am finished! I am finished!” Papa
sobbed bitterly.
Joseph, George’s junior brother came and enquired what was happening. “Its
about your elder brother George, even a lunatic patient is better than him.
He has gone and married a second wife.” “What! Second what? After everything
Aunty Marie did for him? No! impossible! Is he under a charm or what? Dad! I
have to go to Dakar to talk to him.” “Yes! My son, I’ll send you to Dakar to
see him face to face.” Papa Said.
Arts & Music
Interview With Demba Danjo, Fiddle Specialist
With Musa Barrow
Demba Danjo is a fiddle specialist as well as an oral historian. In this
exclusive interview with the Art and Music column, Mr. Danjo gives an account of
his personal strife to learn this rather peculiar musical instrument. He
further discusses the significance of African history especially in the bid to
unite the continent.
Foroyaa: Could you introduce yourself to Art and Music Column readers?
Danjo: My name is Demba Danjo and I was born in Baro Kunda, Wuli West
District, Upper River Region. I have got a rather unusual story that members of my
family are from smiths by profession. However, I decided to become a fiddle
player after learning it. Having said so it is worth pointing out that
becoming a fiddle player did not prevent me from learning the trade of my father and
grandfather which is iron smith.
Foroyaa: It is quite usual that an iron smith turns to a fiddle player, so
what inspired you to change profession?
Danjo: Well, during my childhood days I used to play an instrument that
resembles a fiddle. And as I grew older I began to develop more admiration for a
fiddle. I had several dreams in which I saw myself playing fiddle. In a
nutshell, it was my desire to visualize my dreams that truly inspired me to become
a fiddle player.
Foroyaa: How did you start learning and playing fiddle?
Danjo: It was immediately after one of my those dreams that I rushed to one
man who makes fiddles expressing my desire to have a fiddle. The man who
actually thought I was joking charged two hundred CFA as the price. Having
produced that amount the man brought the fiddle to me and returned me sixty CFA. He
then told me that the reason why he demanded two hundred CFA was simply
because he was testing my seriousness about the thing. In response I told him to
take the change. After receiving my fiddle I fixed the strings and started
playing it. The only person to have taught me how to play the fiddle was a
personal friend who stayed with me just for a day and showed me how to become a
better fiddle player. I started playing the fiddle while I stayed in the
Senegalese town of Tamba Kunda.
Foroyaa: How long did it take you to become a full fledge fiddle player?
Danjo: It took me nothing less that six years to acquire all the skills
necessary to be a full fledge fiddle player. After learning by practicing on my
own in Tamba Kunda I had to go to Mali where I was taught by a fiddle
specialist. Upon completion of my training in Mali I joined the Malian National
Troop as a fiddle player.
Foroyaa: How did you join the Malian National Troop?
Danjo: Well, one of my friends worked with the then Malian Troop and I used
to attend their rehearsals with him. Unfortunately the then fiddle player of
the Malian National Troop passed away and my friend was asked to recruit a
fiddle player. He then consulted me and offered me the job which I accepted. I
worked with the troop for a period of four years during which we had toured
many countries in the Sub-region. It was during one of those tours when we
came to The Gambia that my father persuaded me to stay in Gambia. This was how
my career with the Malian National Troop ended. When I was in the Malian
National Troop we toured and performed in all corners of Mali.
Foroyaa: Apart from your prowess on the fiddle, you are also quite versatile
in oral history. How did you learn history?
Danjo: I learned history from the same person who taught me to play the
fiddle. The name of this fiddle specialist and oral historian is Jali Baba.
Foroyaa: Having been persuaded by your father to stay in Gambia how did you
continue your artistic career in your native country?
Danjo: Well, in the country I have performed with many artists and joined
many bands. However, I have now stopped joining bands, although I still play my
fiddle on some occasions.
Foroyaa: Have you ever worked with The Gambia National Troope since
returning from Mali?
Danjo: I have never worked with The Gambia National Troope, although several
attempts were made to persuade me to join them. My reason for not joining
Gambia National Troope was because I feared that I would not be adequately
paid.
Foroyaa: You once ran a popular oral history show at Citizen FM Radio, how
did that programme start?
Danjo: The late proprietor of Citizen FM Babucarr Gaye knew me and gave me
air time on his radio to narrate African history. As the programme became
popular he even wanted to establish a permanent salary for me. Unfortunately, we
did not live to witness that as the radio station was taken off air.
Foroyaa: Apparently the closure of Citizen FM has an adverse impact on you
as you were denied a source of income?
Danjo: Clearly the closure of Citizen FM came as a severe blow to me. It did
not just deny me income, but I was also denied the much needed popularity
which the programme started to give me. The radio station also served as a
recording studio for me which I was denied.
Foroyaa: The then proprietor of Citizen FM Babucarr Gaye has passed away,
what would be your tribute to him?
Danjo: The death of Babucarr Gaye was a big loss to the entire country as a
whole. He truly stood for freedom of speech and expression. Despite his death
his legacy will still continue to live with us.
Foroyaa: How would you compare the state of music in The Gambia and Mali?
Danjo: The state of music in The Gambia and Mali is incomparable. Music in
Mali is far ahead of Gambian music. This is due to the fact that Malian
musicians frequently perform and rehearse together. And above all they make a
decent living out of their music. In sharp contrast, all those things mentioned
above are not happening in The Gambia.
Foroyaa: What would you attribute the apparent disorganization in The Gambia
music industry to? Is it due to the reluctance of Gambia artists to better
organize themselves or lack of sponsorship?
Danjo: In this country the problem with the music industry is lack of
sponsorship. Developing the music industry requires a good sum of money. And in The
Gambia investors are not willing to invest in the music industry. For
constant rehearsals to happen artists need to be assured that their experiences
will be covered.
Foroyaa: What is your reaction to calls for the establishing of a music
academy in the country?
Danjo: The whole idea of a music academy is splendid. However,
practicalising it is another matter. Establishing a music academy requires huge
investment. The reason why a music academy has worked so successfully in some countries
is simply because investors have invested in the music industry. It is very
rare to come across such investors in The Gambia. Basically, the people who
know art in this country do not have the financial clout to support artists,
while those who have the financial clout do not know the economic benefits art
can bring.
Foroyaa: Despite Gambians producing some excellent instruments, why is it
that Gambian music still lives under the shadow of the music of other countries?
Danjo: It is quite right that Gambia has produced some of the best
instruments in the sub-region. However the reason why our music is still incomparable
with the music of other countries is due to what I call lack of
professionalism. Most of Gambia’s best instrumentalists have in fact left the country
playing their trade in some neighbouring West African States. It should not be
surprising that Gambians has produced some excellent instrumentalists, in fact
Kora has its roots right from Gambia.
Foroyaa: Having traced the origin of Kora, could you shed light on the
origin of fiddle?
Danjo: Fiddle was one of the earliest musical instruments in black Africa.
Initially it had only one string and used to be carried by herdsmen. As the
herdsmen looked after their cattle, they played a fiddle to entertain
themselves.
Foroyaa: Is it compatible with the principles of art for artists to just
shower praises on any one just for the sake of getting money or any other
material gain?
Danjo: It is totally incompatible with the principle of art or music to
shower praises on people who do not deserve such praises. It is greedy and
unscrupulous musicians who selfishly praise people just for the sake of getting
material gain. Upright musicians would always shower praises on people who truly
deserve it and they would never hyperbolize it.
Foroyaa: How would you spell out that role of artists in pre-colonial Africa?
Danjo: In pre-colonial Africa the artist served as mediator as well as
custodian of history. Artists played the role of peace envoys and advised leaders
on sensitive issues. The music that artists played was in itself a reservoir
of good moral lessons for young people. Marriages and other social events are
negotiated by artists.
Foroyaa: How do you view the state of African history. Is it getting the
attention it deserves?
Danjo: It is quite worrying that historians are not popular as singers. Most
people especially young ones have less interest in history. There is no
doubt in my minds that if appropriate measures are not taken our history could
disappear from us.
Foroyaa: How would you describe the significance of history?
Danjo: History is so significant that it serves a reservoir of knowledge. It
teaches one about the earlier generations and thought comparing what
transpired in the past and today. One can have an idea as to what might come in the
future. History teaches one how to interact and peacefully co-exist with
other human beings.
Foroyaa: What was Pre-colonial Africa like?
Danjo: The boundaries are not the same as it is today. During those days
there were powerful and large empires in Africa.
Foroyaa: Don’t you think African history if popularized could help efforts
to unify Africa?
Danjo: There is no doubt that if Africans truly know their history efforts
to unify the continent will be enhanced. The idea is a very good one because
unity is going to yield strength. The reason why Western powers have been able
to dominate us is because we are not united. Unity also begets
understanding.
GAMMA Prexy Laments Frustration
Calls for United Gambian Musicians
By Madi Njie
Sulay Sowe, alias King Solomelo, the founder of Rootless Band and interim
chairman of the Gambia Musician Association (GAMMA), has lamented frustration
in the process of organising Gambian musicians into a unique body and called
on all concerned to be united and develop the industry.
Speaking to this reporter at his residence, in Bakau New Town, King Solomelo
explained that the formation of a Gambia Musician Association started in
2006 and until now to hold a congress has been a problem due to some
shortcomings.
Since its establishment in 2006, he said, they expected that they will hold
a congress within weeks or months, but it is now two years, and they are yet
to hold a congress. He added that they had set dates for the congress, on
several occasions, but it usually fails. He said that most of the dates fixed
for the congress coincided with state functions and as a result they had to
cancel it to find a better time.
He however added that currently they are collaborating with the NCAC to
transform the association into a union and set a date for a congress in the
nearest possible time. “We are busy finalizing a draft constitution in
collaboration with NCAC and, hopefully, hold a congress in the nearest possible time,”
he said.
Solomelo also expressed concern that most of the veteran Gambian musicians
are yet to respond to the call for unity of Gambia musicians and urged all
musicians to join the association in order to forge ahead in developing the
music industry.
“GAMMA is for all Gambians and everyone, but not for particular groups or
individuals. We must be united and work together as one family,” he said.
Journalist Mam Sait Ceesay’s Case Adjourned
By Fabakary B. Ceesay
The trial of journalist Mam Sait Ceesay, the former press officer at State
House, did not proceed at the Banjul Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 25 March,
before Magistrate Kayode Olagubutu.
The case was supposed to be called on the 24 March, but it coincided with a
public holiday. The accused person, who expected that the case was going to
continue yesterday, was in court and eagerly waiting for the prosecutor and
his counsel to arrive, but who were nowhere to be found. The witness, who was
supposed to be cross examined by the defence counsel, was not in court either.
The case was adjourned to Monday, 31 March.
Mam Sait Ceesay, the former press officer at State house, is standing trial
for false publication. He pleaded not guilty to the charges preferred against
him.
Chief’s Body Guard Arrested
By Fabakary B. Ceesay
Reports reaching Foroyaa have it that the body guard of Chief Momodou Lamin
Baldeh of Lower Fulladu District, Momodou Badjie, has been arrested by the
Police at Brikama-ba Police Station on Friday 21 March.
An eye witness, who spoke to Foroyaa said the incident happened between
Pancharr and Taifa. The eyewitness alleged that they were in a transport when
they saw Mr. Badjie assaulting a teenage boy. The eye witness further alleged
that Mr. Badjie tied the young man to his bicycle and hit him indiscriminately;
that he was rolling the wheels of a bicycle on him. The witness added that
the victim sustained injuries on his lips, head and back. The witness said
those of them who were on board the transport decided to arrest the alleged
culprit and took him to the Brikama-Ba Police Station. The witness stated that
four of them gave statements to the police and that the suspect was later put
in a cell. The witness noted that they later escorted the victim to the
Brikama-Ba Health Centre where he was given medical attention.
The police spokesperson, Inspector Sulayman Secka, confirmed the incident.
Inspector Secka said the accused has been charged with assault causing actual
bodily harm. He said that the accused has been granted police bail.
Lamin R. Darboe And Co. Trial Adjourned Indefinitely
By Modou Jonga
The criminal case against Mr. Lamin R. Darboe and four other supporters of
the United Democratic Party was deferred indefinitely by Magistrate Ayub
Johnny Njie. This decision by Magistrate Njie came at a time when the case is
protracting in court.
Only two prosecution witnesses have testified in the cas, despite the fact
that it has been previously presided over by three Magistrates at the Brikama
Magistrates Court.
Mr. Darboe and his co. accused persons, dragged to court by the state on 7th
August, 2006, were arraigned before Magistrate S.B Tabally for alleged
assault causing their complainants actual bodily harm. According to the charge
sheet, the accused persons, Mr. Lamin R. Darboe, Jerreh Fatty, Buba Darboe,
Maimuna Jobarteh and Momodou Demba unlawfully and separately assaulted their
complainants on 15th May, 2006, at Pirang, in the Western Region.
The said complainants are in the persons of Lamin Secka, Kawsu Gibba,
Sainabu Touray and Awa Jatta.
In at related development, Mr. Nfamara Bojang the defeated UDP candidate for
Bakau Constituency was acquitted and discharged by Senior Magistrate E.F M’
bai. This decision by Magistrate M’bai came as a result of the dragging of the
said case at the expense of the prosecution.
Only two prosecution witnesses have testified in the case of Mr. Bojang.
Dudu Kassa Jaata And Co. Trial Deferred Indefinitely
By Modou Jonga
Magistrate Agub Johnny Njie of the Brikama Magistrate Court has ruled that
he will adjourn the assault trial involving Mr. Dudu Kassa Jaata and Natioma
Conteh indefinitely.
The decision to adjourn the case indefinitely came in the wake of the snail
pace with which the case is progressing.
The accused persons were dragged to court by the state for allegedly and
jointly assaulting one Hawa Jatta, on 13 May, 2006 at Pirang, shortly after the
May 15, 2006 Kombo East By-Election. The accused persons have pleaded not
guilty. Their alleged act is said to have cause actual bodily harm to the said
complainant. The case has, over the period, been presided over by three
magistrates and that no prosecution witness has ever testified in the case.
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