In a message dated 3/2/04 7:43:21 AM Central Standard Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:


> Knowledge and the ability to do for one-self, supported by legislation is
> the key.  We have to work on enforceable legislation.  Couple this with
> knowledge about our rights in tandem with programs for economic empowerment
> and we have a chance at sustainable development.  What do you think?
>
> Soffie

This is the answer sister Soffie. When people are poor, marginalized and
voiceless with no legislation to back them, they are afraid and are therefore
forced to endure things that they would never tolerate otherwise. This situation
is similar to what the masses of Gambians are subject to by unscrupulous
politicians. A poor and marginalized people are always vulnerable to manipulation by
unscrupulous, selfish people whose best tool is this weakness that they
exploit to the maximum. Empowerment of the people both economically and legally is
the answer and even then the avenues through which these can be achieved are
many times blocked, the electoral process in our country being a case in point.
The struggle does continue but educating even one individual at a time is a
must.

Jabou Joh

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