Foroyaa Newspaper Burning Issue
Issue No. 122/2007, 17 - 18 October, 2007
Editorial
UNION DEMANDS GIVEN DEAF EARS
On May Day this year union leaders put forward their recommendations to the
government for a pay rise across the board so that employees can cope with
the rising cost of living. The union leaders lamented the inability of most
employees to meet the basic necessities of life. In their resolution the union
leaders also called on the Department of State for Trade, Industry and
Employment to convene a meeting of the ‘tripartite structure’ (government,
employers and unions) “to look into minimum terms and condition of work to suit the
needs and aspirations of the workers, employers and the government.”
They also called on the Agriculture Department to provide “assistance for
women for adequate water supply; marketing, preservation and storage
facilities; and fishing and canning factories and manufacture and export their products.
The unionists also called for the expansion of the scope of social security
to include unemployment, old age, invalidity, survivor and family benefits
and medical care.
They further called on the government to facilitate the attendance of the
International Labour Organisation June Conference.
They emphasized that every person has a right to decent work and a decent
life.
Since these recommendations were made no statement has been issued on it by
the government while the condition of employees continues to worsen. In
short, prices continue to rise while salaries remain stagnant. Furthermore the
same condition of women vegetable growers continue to prevail, that is, the
marketing, preservation and storage.
Needless to say, a government that is at the service of the people cannot
but be responsive to the demands of the people. Such a government will not only
be always eager to lend its ears to the demands of the people but will be
capable of addressing them.
Dr. Taal of Daily Observer Sacked
Dr. Saja Taal former Managing Director of Daily Observer was sacked from
that position yesterday, Tuesday, 16 October 2007. No reason was given for the
sacking.
Many believe that he is responsible for the frequent sackings and arrests of
Daily Observer employees.
Before replacing Mr Momodou Sanyang as Managing Director about two years
ago, Dr. Taal had served as Permanent Secretary for the Department of State for
Education and the Office of the President, Secretary General of UNESCO The
Gambia and Senior Lecturer, University of The Gambia. He still retains his
position as part-time lecturer and acts as a consultant.
When Dr. Taal was asked to comment on his sacking he said: “It is the will
of Allah.” He said that he has taken it in good faith, noting that life is
like that; full of trials and tribulations.
He emphasized that he enjoyed working at Daily Observer and was pleased with
the high level of professionalism. He called on his fellow colleagues to
keep up the good work of informing and educating the public.
While stressing that he has no hard feelings because of the sacking, he
pleaded for forgiveness from those he may have offended, noting that whatever he
did was done in good faith and without ill will.
Interview with Halifa Sallah
Part 3
ON THE EXCHANGE RATE OF THE DALASI
Foroyaa: Let us move to the Dalasi, how do you see the frequent appreciation
of the Dalasi against major currencies?
Halifa: I dislike the use of the term Major currencies. I have argued in my
book on the founding of a Federation of African Republics that once we have an
African Central Bank, an African Monetary Fund and an African Investment
Bank, thriving under an African Economic Community with a common currency the
Bank will be able to intervene like other Central banks are intervening in the
developed countries to stabilize the exchange rate of the continental
currency. When that happens the concept of major currencies will disappear and the
speculative pressures on currencies which are so rampant in the
international financial system which wrecked the East Asian Economies in 1997 will be
controlled through new international monetary agreements. This however is beyond
the scope of this interview.
The state of the dalasi is not a surprise to us. We have been monitoring it
as editors of Foroyaa. This is why it is good to wear many hats; Media work
requires research and currency. My five years presence in the National
Assembly also gives me additional insight.
Many Gambians are not aware of the volume of trade in the currency market.
The volume of transactions of foreign currencies in the inter bank market for
the first 9 months in 2004 was 12.40 billion dalasis or 635 million dollars
at current exchange rates. In 2005 the figure rose to 15.97 billion or 819,000
dollars and in 2007 it rose to 23.9 billion dalasis or 1.26 billion
dollars. Remittances from Gambians abroad were estimated to stand at 856.3 million
dalasis in 2004, 1.7 billion dalasis in 2005 and 1.8 billion dalasis in
2006. Foreign direct investment was estimated to be 1.3 billion dalasis in 2005
and 1.2 billion dalasis in 2006. The total value of imports stood at 6.3
billion in 2005 and rose to 6.5 billion in 2006. Most of what is imported is
destined for re-export. The total value of exports is put at 2.7 billion dalasis
in 2005 and 3 billion dalasis in 2006. 2.6 billion of the earnings from
exports come from re-exports.
One may now ask: Has the money which is being traded in the inter-bank
market been coming from remittances or earnings from exports? Has it been coming
from the Productive base of the Gambian economy because of Macro economic
stability? The answer is in the negative. Our finding is that there is a decline
in the number of people who used to come to the Gambia from the sub-region
to purchase goods because of concessionary trade arrangements between Senegal
and neighbouring countries. Hence the Gambia’s re-export trade is being
strangulated, thus depriving the country of foreign exchange earnings. More
Gambian traders are crossing over to Senegal to purchase cement vegetables and
other commodities giving rise to greater demand for foreign currency. The
groundnut and cotton trade are in shambles and balance of payments support is on
the hold. Foreign direct investment is mainly in the hotel sector which
generally retains its foreign exchange earnings.
This is why we concluded that the trade in the inter bank market had
dynamics of its own and had little link to the productive base of the economy : It
was an asset to the macro economic environment of a country with a narrow
economic base rather than a by product of a robust macro economic environment.
Foroyaa: So you disagree with the position of the Central bank and the SoS
Finance?
Halifa: I disagree totally. The banking system in the Gambia is not linked
to the productive base of the economy: Development banking ceased when the
Gambia Commercial and Development Bank and the Agricultural Development Bank
collapsed. Now we have merchant and speculative banking: Even the secretary of
State has lamented the inadequacy of investment in the productive base:
However he was blaming the banks for pursuing profit as if the banks are state
institutions implementing government policy, instead of developing institutions
that are capable of developing a corporate Gambia which can earn the
confidence of the Banking system for productive investment.
Foroyaa: What then is responsible for the current situation and what are the
implications?
Halifa: The situation emerged from a sudden shortage of dalasis in the
banking system. We tried to have an interview with the Central Bank to find out
why the banks were claiming to lack adequate stocks of the local currency but
were not granted an interview. Foroyaa then raised the alarm that something
undesirable was creeping; We predicted that if the shortage of the local
currency continued while foreign exchange continues to come as remittances, budget
support for NGOs and expatriates, assistance to Gambians from donors abroad
or investments in the purchase of land and for construction, the demand for
the dalasi will exceed supply, thus leading to speculative down turn of the
value of foreign currencies. This is confirmed by the fact that even though the
other currencies like the Euro and the pound were appreciating against the
dollar in the Gambia those currencies were depreciating along with the dollar
against the dalasi. This is absurd by all standards.
We further predicted that as the foreign currencies plunge daily the
speculators are likely to withhold their foreign currencies, Banks and big importers
are likely to save money in foreign bank accounts to draw money from
interests instead of taking a risk in buying and selling currencies whose value one
cannot determine the following day. We also indicated that investors will be
driven away by the unpredictable environment. We argued that prices are not
likely to fall for fear that the foreign currencies will appreciate by the
time the importers proceed to import new consignments. It is therefore no
surprise that both the President and the Central Bank are alluding to such
developments. However the right questions are not being asked. Hence the right
answers are still illusive to them.
Foroyaa: What are the right questions?
Halifa: The two most important questions which should be asked to understand
the peculiar situation of the exchange rate instability in the Gambia are as
follows:
Why did the banks claim shortage of dalasis before its appreciation started
to skyrocket by the day? Was there a real shortage or was it orchestrated by
hoarding or policy decision?
Foroyaa: How can these two questions unravel the cause of the instability?
Halifa: Just note that the total sales of foreign exchange to get dalasis
rose from 8 billion dalasis in 2005 to 11.4 billion dalasis in 2006. The need
for the dalasi is obvious by the increases in the sale of foreign exchange to
get dalasis: Needless to say, if there is shortage of dalasi notes in the
face of a growing demand to sell foreign currencies to get dalasi notes,
supply of foreign exchange would exceed supply of foreign currency which will put
pressure on the dalasi to appreciate as long as those selling foreign
exchange are under pressure to sell their foreign currencies. In our view, the
problem can be compounded if there are opportunistic policy interventions through
instructions to banking institutions to fix the rate lower on a daily basis
or if the banks themselves form a cartel to fix prices.
The rapid appreciation of the dalasi could be sustained only if the bulk of
those who sell their foreign currencies in exchange for the Dalasi are
essential and prolonged users of the dalasi in their transactions: However if they
are speculators the tendency is to stop trading when the market becomes
unpredictable. In short you can buy foreign exchange today at a given price which
may have been estimated to give you a dalasi profit only for you to lose
that dalasi profit by the drop in the value of the foreign currency overnight.
Once there is exchange rate instability the bureaux de change; the banks and
the speculators can lose millions on a daily basis. This is what motivates them
to hoard the currencies they possess or make deposits in foreign bank
accounts. This leads to the depressing of the foreign exchange market which can
lead to the flight of capital and reduction of foreign direct investments.
Foroyaa: How does this affect trade?
Halifa Those who come from neighbouring countries to purchase goods would
have to spend more money to get dalasis which means that if the prices remain
the same Gambian goods would be more expensive for them to purchase. This can
undermine sales of imported goods more than 30 per cent of which is meant for
re-export. Secondly, the hoarding of foreign exchange and its flight could
result in the scarcity of foreign exchange in the market and the resultant
appreciation of the values of the foreign currencies against the dalasi: The
anticipation of such developments leads importers to maintain prices at the same
level and postpone importation for fear of losing millions should they drop
prices only to be faced by an appreciation of foreign currencies.
What causes economic crisis, therefore, is not the actual value of the local
currency but the stability of its exchange rates with other currencies. Once
there is stability those engaged in the trade in foreign currencies can fix
their profit margins. The importers would be able to fix prices to determine
profit margins to prepare for more imports while the retailers would also be
able to determine their profit margins and maintain price stability: In short
exchange rate stability leads to market stability in the currency domain and
price stability in the commodity trade.
Foroyaa: What is the way forward?
To be continued
Kanyiba Kanyi Yet To Be Released
By Fabakary B. Ceesay
Rumours are rife that Mr. Kanyiba Kanyi has been released by the
authorities, but Foroyaa has confirmed that he is yet to be released.
His family members said they also heard the same information, but they are
yet to set their eyes on him. They said that people have called and asked them
about the condition of Kanyiba, but they said they don’t know anything about
his whereabouts. “We are yet to see him,” they said. They pointed out that
they are craving for Kanyiba’s release. They called on the authorities to
release him. Mr. Kanyiba Kanyi was arrested at his home at Bonto on September
18, 2006 by three people who identified themselves as State Security agents. He
was whisked away in a waiting cab. Upon his arrest, his younger brother,
Wandifa Kanyi was also arrested and detained at the serious crime unit at the
Police Headquarters for a night and released the following morning. Kanyiba is
35 years old.
Rambo Narrates His Ordeal
By Fabakary B. Ceesay
Councillor Ousman Jatta (alias Rambo) who was incarcerated for 387 days
without trial, explained his ordeal in an exclusive interview he granted this
reporter on Sunday, 14 September at his house at Bakau Jatta Kunda, where a
crowd of relatives, friends and supporters gathered to show solidarity. Mr. Jatta
said while he was at his office at Cape Point on 23 September, six security
officers came with a Mercedes Benz (190) without number plates. He said they
asked him to follow them to Bakau Police Station. He said he demanded for
reasons, but they told him that he would be informed upon arrival at the
station. Rambo indicated that among the six officers he knew are Sergeant Busso of
PIU, who was the driver, Pateh Bah of Interpol, Lamin Sambou, the then orderly
to the former IGP Musa Mboob and three others whose names he did not know,
but he can recognise them. He said it was Sergeant Busso who told him that he
was needed at the Bakau Police Station. He noted that two other officers
joined him in his car and they drove to the station.
Councillor Jatta said upon arrival at the station, there was a push and pull
among the officers and that he realized that something was wrong. Rambo
explained that he was later asked to join the numberless car and that when he
enquired again as to where he was being taken to, they told him that he would
know when they reach the destination. Councillor Jatta said he was escorted to
Gunjur Police Station in Kombo South where he was incarcerated in a cell with
a leaking roof. He said on his second night in the cell, he was soaked in
rain and could not lie on the wet floor. He said he sat in a corner in order to
avoid the rain. He said on the fourth day, he was stricken by malaria and was
left without any treatment for four days before a police medical doctor came
to attend to him; that he spent one and a half week at Gunjur Police Station
before he was moved to Sinbanor Police Station in the Foni. Councillor Jatta
explained that at Sibanor, he met one Master Tamba Fofana, whom he shared
the same cell with; that he had spent three weeks and some days in Sibanor
Police Cell before he was transferred to Fatoto Police Station in the far end of
the country in the Upper River Region.
Jatta lamented the bad condition of the road to Fatoto. He explained that he
was threatened on the way to Fatoto by one of his escorts who was
brandishing a pistol. He explained that while he was in Sibanor he was suffering from a
spinal problem and was not given medical attention. He added that it was in
this condition that he was moved to Fatoto. He noted that when they arrived
at Fatoto, his escorts told the police that he is a state detainee. Going
further, Jatta said he was immediately put in a cell for one week; that a doctor
later came to attend to his ailment. Rambo said that the cell at Fatoto
police station is the worst cell he had ever been incarcerated in or seen; that he
contracted malaria for almost a week at Fatoto. He said this was due to the
bad condition of the cell. The Councillor noted that he spent two months and
three days at Fatoto Police Station and was constantly kept in the cell. He
said that it was on 28 December 2006 that he was taken to Sare Ngai Police
Station where he spent the rest of his ordeal .He said he was detained there for
a period of nine months and three weeks. Mr. Jaata explained that Sare Ngai
was very tough for him, noting that it was there that he developed haemorrhoid
(commonly called pile), adding that he also suffered from urinal
complications and spine problem. He said he got no medical attention throughout his
detention at the Sare Ngai Station. Councillor Jatta stated that throughout his
detention, from Gunjur to Sare Ngai, he was never given food three times in a
day. He said there were instances when some officers sympathized with him and
shared their food with him, but that there were also others who behaved very
arrogantly towards him and never shared anything with him. He said there
were instances when some prisoners also shared their food with him, that the
water he used for drinking and bath had to be provided by somebody else, but not
the police officers. Rambo explained that he did not observe the Muslim Holy
Month of Ramadan this year but that he did so last year; that he was only
able to fast for three days this year because he was stricken by malaria; that
he was taken to Yorro Bawol Health Centre for treatment. He explained that on
the day of his release, Friday 12 October, he was sitting in a cell when an
officer came and opened the door of the cell and told him that the officer in
charged of the station got orders from the IGP that he should be immediately
released unconditionally. Councillor Ousman Jatta finally called on his
supporters to be law abiding; that he would never betray their trust; that he had
taken a journey of no return.
Banks’ Joint Assistance Strategy In The Making
By Bubacarr K. Sowe
The World Bank and the African Development Bank (AFDB) are in the process of
preparing The Gambia 2008-2011 Joint Assistance Strategy. A consultative
meeting was held at the headquarters of the Association of Non-Governmental
Organisations (TANGO) at Fajara on October 8. The meeting was attended by
members of the Civil Society, journalists and the private sector. The two banks
gave an outline of The Gambia’s recent performance and development challenges.
Among the strengths of the economy the banks highlighted, is the growth in
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at an average 6.2% between 2004 to 2006. It is
projected to reach 7% in 2007.
According to the WB and the ADB, the country’s fiscal discipline such as
relatively open trade policies, tourism as a leading foreign exchange earner and
promising areas of export diversification such as sesame and cashew, has
improved. Amidst these positive trends, the banks showed weakness of the country’
s high poverty rates.
“Overall poverty headcount ratio is 57.9 percent,” the banks indicated.
They added that there is a low level of human development and The Gambia ranks
155 out of 177 countries in the United Nations 2006 Human Development Index
(HPI). “Production base and exports are undiversified due to a narrow resource
base and small domestic market, inadequate infrastructure (energy,
transport, telecom), deficiencies in business climate and mixed progress in attaining
the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs),” the banks revealed.
Francoise Perrot, the World Bank’s Senior Operations Officer for Cape Verde,
The Gambia, Guinea Bissau, Niger and Senegal, and the African Development
Bank’s Senior country Economist Dr. Djamal Zayid said the main development
challengers are public service delivery.
“There is need to implement measures to improve governance, build capacity
and strengthen institutions. There is need to address economy wide constraints
such as inadequate infrastructure and weak investment climate in order to
promote growth competitiveness,” Madam Perrot and Dr. Zayid said.
The proposed WB/AFDB areas of intervention are in two pillars. The first
pillar is strengthening economic management and public service delivery and the
second pillar is enhancing productive capacity and accelerating growth and
competitiveness.
Youths Prefer Illegal Migration To Lack Of Employment At Home
By Isatou Bittaye
Some Gambian youths are of the view that unemployment and hardship are the
main factors responsible for the mass exodus of youths to the Canary Islands.
This reporter interviewed some aggrieved youths who are enthusiastic to
embark on this risky enterprise locally called “Barcelona wala Barsaha.”
One Bakary Jammeh said lack of employment is the main reason why he wants to
risk his life in the oceans. Bakary said he had been to school and he got
his skills in both carpentry and masonry but he cannot still have a good job
that would enable him to make ends meet. He said he prefers dying in the Oceans
to living in hardship in The Gambia like this. He said that his aunt is in
Europe and she has helped him to apply for a visa but if he is rejected, he
must go through the back way. Bakary said the president of the Republic said in
his speeches that the Europeans have been in Africa for 400 years and it is
now time for Africans to go to Europe, but according to him it seems that the
president has now changed his views. He said he does not see any reason why
youths should be deported and arrested and taken to court, much more to be
charged and sentenced.
Mr. Jammeh stressed that slavery has been abolished by the Europeans but
that it is still existing in Africa because as he opined the way youths are
living now in The Gambia is synonymous to slavery. He asserted that the money
given by the Spanish government or the Europeans is not visibly seen and is
meant for the youths so that government establish skill centres where youths can
acquire skills and get employed in The Gambia. Bakary argued that political
leaders always fooled the youths during elections in order to get votes, but
in the end they forget about them. He said that youths shout and campaign for
our leaders, but in turn the leaders don’t respect their opinions and rights.
He said, “even if we are all going to die and perish in the seas we must go”
. He said that he has written several opinion letters for the government to
notice their sufferings and act on them but to no avail, noting that he will
still continue to write. He said that some of our public enterprises have been
sold and the rest are likely to follow. He asked what are we going to be
left with if all of the public enterprises are sold.
Sheriff Ceesay who was also interviewed by this reporter said lack of
employment is the reason motivating him to dream of planning to travel in order to
develop his family and the nation. He said he does not see any other job he
could do and now he decided to become a “beach boy” so that he can get chance
travel to Europe. He added that he intended to go through the back way but
was discouraged by his grandmother, noting that if it were not for her, he
would have been in Spain or died in the sea. He stressed that he knows that
going through the “back way” is not safe but that’s the only option for him. He
said that anytime he has the means and chance of going, he would leave this
country.
One Ebrima Manneh, a youth added that he is frustrated and that is why he
wants to travel to Europe. He noted that he once travelled to Germany. He added
that, he always suffers harassment from the people who said he will not be
successful. He said anytime, he gets the opportunity to travel; he will go
either through the back way or the front way. He stressed that the only solution
for the youths is for the government to help them with employment
opportunities in order for them to contribute to the development of the country.
Road Accident Claims Three Lives
By Modou Jonga
A recent tragic road accident involving a ‘Gele Gele’ vehicle bearing the
number plate KM 9891A has resulted in the death of three passengers on board
the said vehicle. According to reports, the vehicle which somersaulted was
coming from Farafenni to the Sabach Sanjal District. The deceased persons are
Sarjo Njara Sabally, a former village head at Sara Kunda, Kebba Jobe, a fish
retailer and a resident of Kumbe Jah and a youth, said to be a resident of Dibba
Kunda, all in the Sabach Sanjal District.
Two of the victims on board the said vehicle died instantly at the scene of
the accident, while Sarjo Njara Sabally was taken to the Farafenni AFPRC
Hospital where he was pronounced dead. The three victims, according to family
sources, were referred to the Royal Victoria Teaching Hospital before being
interned at their respective village cementeries, a day after the tragic
accident. Sources stated that the passengers who sustained injuries were taken to the
AFPRC Farafenni Hospital for medical attention.
When this reporter visited the Farafenni Police Station, an anonymous police
officer confirmed the fatal road accident and noted that the driver of the
said vehicle is currently helping the police in their investigation. The
police officer further noted that personnel from Farrafenni Police Station visited
the scene of the tragic accident.
Seafarers Beware Of Your Safety Rules
Dear Editor,
Please allow me space in your widely read Newspaper to highlight issues
relating to seafaring by Gambians. The Gambia is a coastal country and an IMO
member state. The state has ratified all conventions of the organisation. As
this is the case, the state should also take it as a challenge to be competitive
in the industry, both in the field of fishing and cargo carrying and any
other seamanship both ashore and off shore.
To be competitive in this direction requires the training of all those
involved in the job, i.e, the training of captains, engineers, deckhands and even
dockworkers. The training should be in theory and practice.
Seamanship is a skill as ancient as humankind, but as generations go and
experience grows nations exact themselves with the new technology to cover any
new situation, to benefit her people and protect her citizens from losing,
both life and resources..
In this regard, IMO, following many accidents and the loss of many lives at
sea, decided to establish a law to stop the recruitment of any untrained
sailor into any vessel that goes deep into sea. This includes both those working
in the galley, on the deck, in the engine room and even in the wheel house.
This is to save the lives of all seafarers worldwide, that is, those working
in fishing trawlers and cargo carriers. That is why all vessels must have on
board all recommended life saving apparatus and fire fighting extinguishers
and a first aid box to prevent loss of life and fire accidents at sea.
Knowing that the worst enemy of seaman at sea is fire accident and some
other distresses at sea, IMO has a convention that, all seafarers regardless of
your profession on board, must have knowledge of three recommended safety
subjects, which are first aid, fire fighting and personal survival at sea, in
order to reduce the unnecessary loss of life at sea. Training in this regard
requires disciplinary action, to let all sailors get used to taking orders from
their senior officers both in terms of carrying out their duties and even in
times of distress.
In the case of fire, the first person to discover the fire should instantly
raise the alarm and commence fighting the flames. If it is rapidly and
correctly attacked it may well be restricted to a small outbreak, bearing in mind
that too many persons at the scene of the fire may cause confusion. At sea,
emergency stations should be sounded and the lifeboats swayed out ready for
lowering if it is thought that the fire is or will be, of major proportions.
All sailors should have knowledge of how to use fire fighting extinguishers
and on to which type of fire should an extinguisher be used; how to use and
operate all life saving apparatus and must have skills in first aid treatment.
To avoid un-necessary loss of life at sea and to be able to be in a position
to help a co-worker who many need immediate help from a serious injury.
So in this regard, any sailor found on board without his/her safety kits is
an illegal crew in the vessel, which can give the vessel captain a serious
problem if discovered by ITF. And for the benefit of all seafarers in any
nation, every country should have a station of ITF in your country to safeguard
the interest of all seafarers.
In fact it is the responsibility of any nation to access her citizens to
their STCW so that they can benefit from the industry equally as other sister
countries do. And it is the responsibility of the government to invite ITF to
build their station in the country, and their presence will stop the premature
handling of maritime affairs in the country.
Sarjo Badjie
West African Prosecutors Trained On Anti-Money Laundering
By Bubacarr K. Sowe
Prosecutors drawn from the English speaking West African States and Cameroon
are undergoing a five day training on money laundering cases at the Kairaba
Beach Hotel in Kololi. The training, which started on Monday, October 15, is
organised by the Inter-Governmental Action Group Against Money Laundering and
Terrorist Financing in West Africa (GIABA) and the Commonwealth Secretariat
with experts drawn from the office of Technical Assistance of the United
States Treasury Department, GIABA Secretariat, Commonwealth Secretariat and the
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.
Marie Saine-Firdaus, the Attorney General and Secretary of State for Justice
who spoke at the opening ceremony, said terrorism financing., drug abuse and
trafficking, corruption and money laundering have become key transnational
crimes that the world is grapping with, coupled with the enormous challenges
faced by some of the nations due to its transnational dimension, complexity
and sophistication in the mode of operations of the criminals.
“As we become more closely globally interlinked due to modern technology,
our global village need sustained, consistent and highly skilled personnel
training to catch up with new criminal devices, methods and methodologies to
ensure that there is no weak link in our chain,” Mrs. Saine Fridaus cautioned.
Dr. Abdoullali Shehu the Director General of GIABA said successful
prosecutions of White Collar crime depends on a number of preconditions, including the
resourcefulness, skills and the integrity of the prosecutors themselves.
“Under the common law system, meeting the evidentiary proof beyond
reasonable doubt presents a big challenge, yet necessary,” Dr. Shehu said.
Cecilia Marian of the Commonwealth Secretariat urged countries that have not
passed anti-money laundering laws to do so immediately. The Chief Justice of
the Gambia, Abdou Kairm Savage, said money laundering is becoming a
cankerworm for fledgling democracies and the crusade against its menace is a daunting
task.
Justine Savage added that the people who are involved in the fight against
such organised crimes have to be “smart and capacitised personnel”.
Jerry Rowe, Africa and Middle East Regional Adviser to the U.S Department of
Treasury, said his government helps countries to develop anti money
laundering legislations. Mr. Rowe added that they try to be responsive to money
laundering activities and participate in providing bilateral technical assistance
to other countries.
Clive Scott of the Global Programme Against Money Laundering (GPML) of the
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime said the fight against money
laundering is a priority to his office and that they seek to achieve this goal.
Interview With A Wheelchair Confined Doctor, Bubacarr Jagne
By Ebrima Dibbasey
Foroyaa: Can you introduce yourself to Foroyaa’s Disability Column?
Doctor Jange: Thank you, my name is Doctor Bubacarr Jagne, I am a Medical
Doctor.
Foroyaa: How old are you?
Doctor Jange: I am 28 years old.
Foroyaa: Where were you born?
Doctor Jagne: I am a native of Fulladu Brikama-ba in the Central River
Region.
Foroyaa: What is your educational background?
Doctor Jagne: I attended primary school now called the basic cycle and
continued to Armitage Senior Secondary School, which is a boarding school. Then
after my completion at Armitage Senior Secondary School I served as an
unqualified teacher for seven months. I then signed my under graduate studies in
medicine in 1999 and attained my MBBS at the University of The Gambia. I am now
practicing as a house officer at RVTH. I have already served one year and I am
now left with another one year to complete. I am attached to the paediatrics
unit. Since my childhood days it has been my ambition to be a Doctor. Of
course things are not easy in life but with determination and courage you will be
able to achieve many things in life. If you have guidance, support and
protection, you would be able to achieve your set target in life.
Foroyaa: What do you mean when you say House Officer?
Doctor Jagne: When you finish your medical studies as a Doctor you work
under supervision for one year and in some places it is two years. For Gambia the
recommendation is two years for house jobs and that is what I am undergoing
right now.
Foroyaa: It means that you did all your studies in The Gambia as a medical
Doctor?
Doctor Jagne: I did all my studies in The Gambia. I started in 1999 and
finished in May 2006.
Foroyaa: People are always proud or confident about people who studied
abroad such as UK or America. Furthermore, some people say the University of The
Gambia is not adequately equipped, how do you feel about that?
Doctor Jagne: Ebrima, to study in the smallest hut in the world is not a
problem. How much knowledge you get in that hut depends on how much you apply
yourself. In any case in the medical field, we do not make propaganda that this
is what I can do, I am the best and so on and so forth. It is illegal but I
am confidently sure that my patients will be able to tell you about the
quality of the products of the University of The Gambia Medical School. What is
important and significant is how well you are able to serve your patients, how
much you are able to satisfy your patients, that is what matters; and, after
treating the patients, were you able to bring them to life? Are they happy?
That is what is important.
Foroyaa: How do you manage to attend your classes regularly at the
university because access for wheelchair users is always a daunting challenge?
Doctor Jagne; This is a very important question, disability issues in this
country are of a recent phenomenon because in olden days disabled people were
kept behind doors and confined to one place or restricted. Now we are
advocating for a more Disabled friendly environment. I think people should always
look forward to that reality. I do attend my classes in a very rough and
difficult condition but my colleagues who have been extremely supportive to me
during my lessons, help me everywhere by lifting me upstairs. Sometimes it
becomes very difficult but they help me almost where ever I wanted to go. They
have really been just like my family. More importantly I did my secondary
education in a boarding school even there people did help me. But I do try and
adopt myself to certain circumstances and certain environments and I do a lot of
things with my wheelchair. This helped me a lot during my career as a student
and even right now as a Doctor.
Foroyaa: Still now you may be experiencing certain difficulties in terms of
access within the hospital which hinders your operation as a doctor in a
hospital, what are some of the environmental or structural barriers you are faced
with in your daily routine as a Doctor?
Doctor Jagne: I think the most important thing here when it comes to
Disability and hospital environment is lack of access. It is not easy to make the
entire environment accessible to the disabled persons. It’s vital we put it at
the back of our minds, particularly in building, especially new structures.
It is important we cater for the needs of Disabled people.
There should have been a legal document or a disability policy in place to
make sure all public places; buildings and structures are fully catered for.
The hospitals and companies etc are accessible. We should not see the access
as privilege but a fundamental right and the state must have the willingness
to change life and conditions of Disabled people. The society must give other
ultimate moral support at all times. The state should table a bill at the
National Assembly to be enacted so that all the public buildings and structures
are assessable and is a Disabled friendly environment.
Foroyaa: Coming to the one demanding challenge of Disabled people faced
daily, what about the attitude of the society; people look down on the disabled
as an inferior. For your case, you are independent, able to contribute to GDP
and support your family members, what do you say regarding the attitude of
society?
Doctor Jagne: This is a very touching issue. Whenever I go to the restaurant
or supermarkets and see the disabled begging I do reflect on my own case. I
put myself in their situation, I feel very bad.
The society should help children with Disabilities or their parents. They
should not be conditioned or forced to go in for begging or seeking for
charity. This will not take them anywhere. It will never develop them and I think
the state should provide funds to enable these people to survive meaningfully,
be able to educate their children and develop themselves and become
independent and be able to contribute as tax payers instead of tax consumers. My own
dad does reject alms or charity to me. He would normally say to them that I do
not need it. He would normally say I can afford anything I needed, no need
to give him alms or charity. My Dad is a motor mechanic. He believes that
nothing is wrong with me since my brain is good. I can do anything that other
people are able to do but maybe the manner or the way I would do it may differ.
Even now when I go to the street, people do give me alms/charity and I look
at them and laugh. I do collect their gifts and as i move on the way, I pass
it to some people whom I feel are less endowed than i am. I think people
should start thinking that Disability really does not mean inability and act
according to that. We the Disabled individuals should start thinking that we
should become more productive, independent, both socially and economically. We
would start convincing the people that disability really does not mean
inability.
Both my family and colleagues assist me a lot but I think I, myself, too
took a bold initiative and I was determined on what I want to be, this is why I
was able to be what I am today, a medical Doctor. I think charitable
organisations or NGOs should be able to support this group, the disabled Beggars to
be able to shoulder their social and economic shortcomings, schoolings of
their children, survival, clothing and housing needs.
Foroyaa: Have you ever faced any discrimination based on your disability
within your home, workplace or during you educational career?
Doctor Jagne: It is obvious when you have disability in one way or the
other; you are always being discriminated based on your disability. Sometimes it
even goes to high levels in life and you have to understand certain things, one
’s destiny by Allah. You cannot go beyond that. I have been faced with so
many of those things in life but I see them as challenges and they make me
stand strong and firm in life, whenever I come across it.
I think we should also make sure that the people fully know how we feel
whenever we are being discriminated and educate them so that they will have
positive attitudes. When I was about to start my medical course at University I
got all my qualifications, to get enrolled in the medical school and went for
interview twice before I could be accepted. Some of my colleagues attended
their interviews once and they were accepted and enrolled, but for me it was a
different case. For my first interview, they said I could not be accepted and
for the second time they called for another interview on the pretext that I
cannot stand for the challenges of medical field. This is one clear example
for people to understand that being a disabled person does not mean you are
affected internally or your disability affects your inability to be productive
or useful in society. So the society should always allow us to show our
talents. I always like to be doing things on my own. This will enable me to become
independent than allowing people to be doing things for me all the time. This
will lead you to become dependent. Most of my family members and colleagues
can tell you that I like doing things always on my own.
To Be Continued
MARRIAGE AND FAMILY
Discrimination In The Family
Bani Advises Zai
Baniatou advised Zainabou. She went to her room and found her seated on her
bed. “Sis! Don’t you think you were too harsh with mum?” “How? I was not. I
am just being real. Mum is a monster. I’ll not go by her whims and caprices”
. “But be polite about it. Take the money. Buy what you want with it. Go to
the cocktail party. You may meet or not meet a suitable suitor,” Baniatou
advised. “I don’t need a suitor. I have already got one,” Zai refused. Bani got
frustrated and left Zai. “You are stubborn! It’s your business. You’ll face
the wrath of mum,” Bani warned.
Saul And Zai
The duo went to an outing. Zai explained her experience with mum. “But you
should not have refused the gift”. Saul advised. “Why?” Zai asked. “You can
take the horse to the river but you cannot force it to drink. You could have
accepted her gift, buy what you wanted and stick to your principles when you
go to the cocktail party”. “Nonsense! Hear you talk. Mum is not that type of
person. She is mean, calculated and cunning. Taking her gift would have been
a trap for me. I cannot have my cake and eat it. I am a dignified person. My
no is my no, my yes is my yes. I cannot take her implicating gift. I cannot
be part of her ploy. I don’t need her suitable suitor. I have already found
my Saul”. “That’s fine. It’s your decision. It has to be respected”. They
kissed each other.
She Phones The SoS
The cocktail party was in full gear. She phoned the SoS to give her a
detailed progress report. “The cream of society is invited as well as two live bands
”. “Excellent! You are a perfect organiser. I trust you girl! I do,” the
SoS said at the other end. Haja was satisfied with herself. “My boss is
pleased. It’s gonna be a high class party!” She exclaimed.
Bani Goes Shopping
Bani went shopping. She shopped ‘Banjul’. She bought so many different
things. Haja gave her Zai’s money to add to her own. “She is foolish. I don’t
need the money. Add it to your shopping. Buy more”. Bani was excited. She is a
greedy person.
The Party
Haja dressed like a queen. She admired Bani. “You look superb. You must
attract a big fish”. “Thank you mum! You look superb also”. “Thank you,” Mum
responded. As they were about to leave, Haja sked after Zai. “Where is your
sister?” “She is not around”. Haja dialed her phone. There was no response. Zai
refused to answer it. Haja was furious. “I know where she is. With that
thing. I’ll get at him! They defy me and floated my warning? I’ll deal with
them. It’s not a threat but a promise. Let’s go,” She told Bani.
Mum And Daughter Meet The Baron
Haja and Bani met the Baron. He called himself Prince Charles but his real
name is Alhaji Chernor Baba. He is into Diamond and Gold Mining and he is
based in Angola. But he stays about six months in the country. He has also
established some industries at home. He is accompanied by a retinue of private
guards. It is difficult to see him. But mum and daughter were lucky to meet him
face to face. The protocol introduced them to him. “This is Alhaj Chernor Baba
alias ‘Prince Charles’. He is a Diamond and Gold Baron and recently he is
into oil exploration. He is filthy rich. He is difficult to meet even by the
high class. You are lucky to meet him face to face”. The duo greeted him. The
protocol went on. He turned to ‘Prince Charles’ and said. “This is our new
Permanent Secretary, Department of State for Education. She is Haja Oumu Kaira.
She is a genius”. Haja Oumu smiled. Prince Charles extended his hand. “And
who is this beautiful lady accompanying you?” “Oh! She is my daughter,
Baniatou. She is a senior student studying law at the university”. “Oh nice to
meet a dazzling damsel “. He extended his hand to Bani. He dipped into his
jacket and took out a card left in his pocket”. Call me”. Then he left with his
guards. “Thank you sir!” Bani smiled and followed with her mum. The cocktail
was excellent. The hall was full to capacity. The duo enjoyed themselves and
satisfied their ego.
At Home
Zai came earlier and crawled into her bed. She rolled into her blanket and
slept. Mum came with Bani. She went straight to check on Zai. She found her in
bed in deep slumber. She woke her up. “So you have done your wish? You have
shunned my invitation and slapped me at my face. It’s payback time. I’ll
show you I am your mum. You did not give birth to me. I gave birth to you. I
have carried you for nine months in my womb. We shall see!” She barked.
Surveillance Over His House
Haja paid a guy to survey Saul’s house. The guy gave her a detailed report.
He explained how Zai visits Saul almost everyday after school.
Saul Is Set Up
Haja is a society woman. She is well connected. She used her connections to
set up Saul and got him detained and tortured. She reported that Saul came
into her house and stole her trinket box worth D3 million dalasis. The security
acted on her word to punish an innocent man. Saul is defenceless. His human
right was violated. He had nobody to stand for him but his love Zai who was
no match to her mum’s might.
Zai At The Station
Saul managed to send word to his fiancée. Zai came rushing to the station.
She was devasted. “What is the problem? What have you done?” She asked. “I
was framed up”. “By who?” “I don’t know. Somebody accused me of being a
robber. And the security officers refused to tell me who”. Zai became shaky. “Is
it true? Have you done it?” She asked. Saul was devasted. “Are you doubting
my innocence Zainabou? You of all people? How can I do that? You want to say
you still don’t know me? I am finished!” he lamented. “I am sorry. I am
confused. I don’t know what to believe or not to believe. I am sorry. “Zainabou!
Get to my lawyer! Get to her now! I want to get out of here before the news
spread to my office”. “Okay! I’ll do that. I’ll get to your lawyer!” Zai
left to get to the lawyer.
Bani Listens To Her Music
Bani was at home enjoying her music. She shuts herself out of the world’s
problems.
Zai Comes Home
She explained the incident to Bani. “I suspect mum. I distrust her. She
threatened to deal with Saul and this has happened. But Allah is awake! We shall
see,” Zai consoled herself. “Don’t say that. Mum cannot do such a mean act”
. Bani defended her mum but deep inside she suspected her.
To be Continued
Jalex On The Verge Of Releasing New Album
By Musa Barrow
In this edition of the Art column, Foroyaa speaks to a young and rising
Gambian musician, Jalex, who has been heralded by music enthusiasts as one of the
brightest young talents in the country. Jalex’s thrilling lyrics and songs
have jolted music lovers to be on their feet and brought them to embrace him.
Foroyaa: Before we proceed, can you tell our readers and your fans what Jalex
’s real name is?
Jalex: Well, my real name is Malang Touray and I am from Bakau Newtown.
Foroyaa: Have you been to school and what is your educational background?
Jalex: Of course, I have been to school, but I cannot tell you the name of
the schools I attended because I have been to many schools.
Foroyaa: When did you start playing music and could you also tell us when
was you first single released?
Jalex: I actually started my musical career in 1997. Between 1997 and 1999 I
released my first single entitled “Africa Kairo” which means ‘Peace in
Africa’.
Foroyaa: Your first single which was entitled ‘Peace in Africa’ must have
been very appealing. So why did you choose that particular title for your
maiden single?
Jalex: The reason why I named my first single “Africa Kairo” was because
both then and now the continent of Africa is still being washed with wars and
all sorts of conflicts. So, “Africa Kairo” was meant to appeal for peace,
stability and tolerance. It was also aimed at raising awareness that wars and
conflicts only drag the continent backwards and are never a solution to the many
problems confronting our dear continent, Africa.
Foroyaa: How was this first single “Africa Kairo” received by music
enthusiasts?
Jalex: My first single was well received by music lovers and it actually
turned out to be an absolute thriller. Surprisingly, “Africa Kairo” proved to
be the favourite song of many elderly people.
Foroyaa: Just to take you a bit back, what actually inspired you to venture
into the world of music?
Jalex: Infact music has always been an inextricable part of me, because my
grandfather, who died in 1951, was without any question one of the best
musicians the West African Sub-Region has ever produced. He used to play local
instruments known as “Kutiro” and “Sabaar”. Basically, I started playing
music in order to continue the legacy of my grandfather who was in his own rights
a true legend.
Foroyaa: What was the name of this legendary grandfather?
Jalex: His name was Jali Fodar.
Foroyaa: In one of your songs which happened to be popular as well as
controversial, you sang that you don’t trust any one and you were encouraging
others too not to trust any one. Can you tell us why this song?
Jalex: Contrary to how some people might interpret this song, I sang it with
a very clear conscience and in good faith. It was meant to address today’s
realities as far as the inter-relationship between peoples are concerned. The
fact of the matter is that in today’s world you trust people at your own
peril.
Foroyaa: Some people might speculate that the reason why you sang this song
was because you had been betrayed by somebody?
Jalex: Actually, this song was not triggered by any personal experience. But
the fact remains that betrayal can happen to both you and me at anytime.
Foroyaa: What would you say to critics who may argue that this song is
totally inappropriate given your position as a musician who is supposed to be
encouraging people to cooperate and support each other in solidarity but
instead telling them not to trust?
Jalex: My respond to that is who feels it knows it, because it is a message
to the wider audience. It can hardly satisfy everybody.
Foroyaa: How many albums and singles have you produced since you started
your musical career?
Jalex: So far, I have released one album entitled “Soma Alphal” Meaning the
elders of tomorrow. In addition to that I have also released four singles.
Foroyaa: Have you got any immediate plans to release another album very soon?
Jalex: Yes, I am on the verge of releasing my next album very soon.
Foroyaa: As a musician what is your perception of our present society?
Jalex: Well, I do not want to say much about that, but I feel that as a
musician it is a moral responsibility for me to sing about all forms of evil
things going on in the society.
Foroyaa: Recently many young Gambian artists have been signed on contractual
basis by profit-making companies with a view to promoting their products.
Have you been approached by any of such companies and if so could it not
undermine your independence?
Jalex: Well, I have entered into such contract agreement with the Africell
Company. But let me stress that I would not under any circumstances allow my
independence to be compromised. Let me also make it clear that I am a
revolutionary musician who is representing the voice of the poor and the oppressed.
Foroyaa: Revolutionary singers are often harassed and intimidated for their
radical messages. Are you not scared by such threats?
Jalex: I am quite aware of these threats, but they shall never fetter me
from singing what I believe is right. After all, I believe in God as my
protector.
Foroyaa: Would you like to gain or achieve iconic status?
Jalex: Yes, I would like to be a national icon one day. In anything one
does, he/she wants to move from strength to strength.
Foroyaa: Your music is quite distinguishable from that of many upcoming
Gambian musicians. How on earth are you able to play the style of music which is
considered by many to be purely Gambian?
Jah Alex: Well, the reason why I play the style of music I play is because I
have realised I am Gambian and I love being a Gambian. As you know, I’m a
Gambian who is proud of my heritage. Imitating any foreign music would be an
affront to my culture.
Foroyaa: You spoke about your grandfather who you described as a legend. So
are you also playing the musical instruments that your grandfather used to
play?
Jalex: Although I do not exactly play the instruments which my grandfather
used to play, but I can also play the percussion locally called “Jembeh”,
which no one taught me how to play it. In addition to that, through close
observation, I have an idea as to how to play a guitar.
Foroyaa: It is understood that you have recently won an International Award.
Tell us more about this award?
Jalex: Yes, I have recently won the best upcoming Senegambia artist award.
This competition was organised by Gambians based in United Kingdom through
online voting. This award was received on my behalf in London by my Manager,
Garry Jones, who is also an Englishman.
Foroyaa: You made mention of a manager. How important is a manager to a
musician ?
Jah Alex: The role of manager in the business of music cannot be
underestimated. I believe every musician who wants to excel and flourish needs to have a
good manager.
Foroyaa: In your sincere opinion, what do you think are some of the problems
or obstacles faced by Gambian musicians especially the upcoming ones ?
Jalex: The major obstacle facing Gambian musicians is piracy. With all the
hard work invested to produce our music, we helplessly see our work being
pirated by unscrupulous people
Foroyaa: But an anti piracy law has already been established. Is the
practice still not been curbed?
Jalex:Yes the anti piracy law is already in existence, but as far as I know
its impact has not been tremendous as we would wish it to be.
Foroyaa: You are among the few Gambian artists who have a website. Tell us
about your website and how it has contributed in bolstering your popularity?
Jalex: My website is www.jalexonline.com. Clearly the website which was
created by my manager has contributed immensely in raising my profit both in the
country and outside.
Foroyaa: Finally when can we expect Jalex to be on the stage and what would
be your advice to anyone aspiring to become a musician?
Jalex: In fact, I’ll be playing at the Brikama Jokor and Semega Janneh Hall
on the 19 October. My advice to aspiring musicians is for them to be patient,
work hard and research well.
Foroyaa: Thank you.
Jalex: It’s a pleasure.
Solidarity Campaign For Cuban 5 Closes
As Che Guevara’s Death is Commemorated
By Fabakary B. Ceesay
The Embassy of the Republic of Cuba on Wednesday held a friendly gathering
to close the International Solidarity Campaign with the Cuban five heroes
unjustly jailed in the United States in spite of the fact that they were acting
against terrorism. The campaign was taking place all over the world since
September 20th and lasted October 8th on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of
the assassination of the revolutionary, Che Guevara, who was killed in
Bolivia in 1967.
In his speech to the gathering, the Cuban Ambassador to The Gambia Mr.
Carlos M. Salsamendi said since last April the solidarity campaign on the Cuban
five launched by the youngsters has set the stage for the success of the one
they are closing now.
Mr. Salsamendi noted that around 300 Gambian friends participated in
meetings, which were held from Banjul to Basse with regards to the Cuban five. “We
Cubans are proud to have Fidel, Che, Antonio, Fernando, Gerardo, Ramon and
Rene at the forefront of many other heroes of the revolution,’ said Ambassador
Salsamendi.
Mr. Salsamendi added that during the course of last week they have seen how
the international campaign for the liberation of the five heroes is gaining
momentum and more followers joined all over the world even inside the United
States. “The wall of silence imposed by the United States’ highest
authorities start to be dismantled. New York times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times,
BBC, among other international media are now showing interest in this noble
cause,” said Ambassador Salsamendi.
On the 40th anniversary of Che Guevara’s death, Ambassador Salsamendi
asserted that many men and women all over the world have been inspired by Che’s
example and ideas. He quoted Che as saying, “What do the dangers of the
sacrifices of a man or of a nation matter, when the destiny of humanity is at stake?”
He pointed out that one of the most slanderous statements by a CIA agent
against Che, who gave orders for Che to be killed is quoted as saying, “I think
he felt that when the picture was taken he wasn’t going to be shot.’
Ambassador Salsamendi recalled the statement made by Che as “If we in a small point
of the world map, are able to fulfill our duty and place at the disposal of
this struggle, whatever little of ourselves, we are permitted to give our
lives, our sacrifice, and if some day we have to breath our last breath on any
land, already ours, sprinkled with our blood let it be known that we have
measured the scope of our actions.”
Kassa Sanneh Harps On Waste Management
By Yaya Bajo
The Community Development Officer (CDO) at Kanifing Municipal Council, Aja
Kassa Sanneh, has called for proper waste management in order to ensure sound
environmental sanitation. Madam Sanneh made these remarks recently at the
premises of the Kanifing Municipal Council while addressing a group of Red Cross
Volunteers on the role of the community environmental management. She
lamented the failure of the community to manage the waste it products which leads
to poor environmental sanitation. “Vendors bring materials in the market and
at the end of the day these materials are left indiscriminately uncollected
which causes poor sanitation,” she posited.
She added that traditionally, women are responsible for house cleaning and
they should be adequately sensitized on various ways of waste management. She
said household waste can be either burnt, buried or decomposed which can be
ultimately used as manure. She stressed the need for people in the community
to practise proper environmental management as council cannot do it alone.
The Municipal Community Development Officer said that every compound should
have a latrine or toilet and children excreta should be properly disposed of.
She said this will help to prevent diarrhoeal diseases in our communities.
Madam Sanneh also spoke on the need for alttitudinal change when it comes to
waste management. She further warned against indiscriminate dumping which she
said causes health hazard. She expressed dismay that sometime ago a group of
women were trained on recycling as a method of waste management, but few are
practising the trade now. She called on those trained women to continue
practising the trade as it can be a source of income for them. She finally advised
them to collaborate with the ward development officer in order to facilitate
their work.
Mansally Goal Levels for Revs Reserves
By Modou Nyang
Abdoulie Mansally scored again for the New England Revolution reserve team
last Sunday as they fought back to avoid defeat at home to the Columbus Crew
Reserves.
Mansally saved face for Revolution in the 86th minute when he swung in a
powerful service into the area from a spot kick, when Adam Cristman was fouled
outside the Crew area. The ball beat Crew keeper Andy Gruenbaum and caromed
off the far post and into the goal. Revolution were trailing the Columbus Crew
since the 46th minute.
This is Mansally’s second for the Revolution reserve team. His team and
country mate Sainey Nyassi, also has two goals in the bag on reserve team games.
Sainey too played the game and was involved for the full duration of the
match. The duo were unused substitutes in the first team game against the
Columbus Crews’ first team. The revs lost that match by 3-2.
The match against the Crew reserves was the Revs last in the MLS reserve
division this season. The young Gambian exports have few matches to feature for
the Revs before the end of the regular season.
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