Foroyaa Newspaper Burning Issue
Issue No. 125/2007, 24 – 25 October, 2007
Editorial
INSECURITY OF TENURE OF PUBLIC SECTOR EMPLOYEES IN THE FACE OF DIVESTITURE
The government is disposing off public enterprises with phenomenal speed.
The APRC administration has been very vocal in criticizing the PPP regime for
its privatisation scheme. The sale of the GPMB for 20 million dalasis which
was paid in three installments was frequently mentioned and the APRC went as
far as to accuse the buyers of money laundering and ceased their properties.
The owners have been compensated and GGC is up for privatisation again. After
spending 11.4 million dollars compensation scheme with GGC Alimenta which was
equivalent to over 300 million dalasis at the then exchange rate, one should
wonder how much government is to gain by privatizing the enterprise. GPMB was
the biggest employer among all the parastatals. Now the situation is
different. The very survival of GGC is at stake, so is the future of the employees
like most parastatals.
The government gave the impression in 2006 that it would undertake a “
Redundancy and Compensation framework study” in order to protect the vital interest
of the public sector employees in the face of divestiture.
It indicated that the procurement process for the conduct of these studies
has already been initiated. One would have imagined that the studies would
have been made public and the employees and unions alike given the opportunity
to examine the conclusions and give their reflections. This type of
transparency cannot occur where power is centralized.
Only a government which is truly people centred will put the people at the
centre of all its decision making processes.
The people have a choice. They should always demand for the government to
explain its policies. If it fails to do so. they should select such other
government which will put the people at the centre of its activities.
Pa Sallah Jeng Acquitted
By Bubacarr K. Sowe
The suspended Mayor of Banjul, Pa Sallah Jeng, has been found not guilty by
Justice Sanji Monageng, sitting at the Brikama High Court on Tuesday, October
23. In a judgment spanning over two hours, Justice Monageng found Mayor Jeng
not guilty of all the pending four counts of economic crimes. He was
initially charged with six counts some months ago. He was acquitted on two counts by
the same court following his submission of no case to answer. The pending
four counts he has just been acquitted of are intentional act or omission
detrimental to the economy of The Gambia, contrary to section 5 (f) of the
Economic Crimes (Specified Offences) Decree 1994; abuse of office by a public
officer contrary to section 90 of the criminal code and economic crime contrary to
section 5 (e) of the Economic Crimes (Specified Offence) Decree of 1994.
According to the particulars of the offence on count three, Mr. Jeng as
Mayor of Banjul City Council between the months of January and February 2005, in
breach of section 45 of the Gambia Public Procurement Act and Section 12 of
The Gambia Public Procurement Regulations intentionally singly sourced and
directed the purchase of a second hand towing ambulance for a sum of D340,000 to
the detriment of the economy of The Gambia.
On count four, he had allegedly, between the months of September and
November 2003, intentionally single sourced and directed the purchase of three
comparators for the sum of D1,500,00 in violation of section 45 of The Gambia
Public Procurement Act and Section 12 of The Gambia Public Procurement Regulation
to the detriment of the economy of The Gambia.
The particulars on count five stated that between the months of October and
December 2004, in abuse of the authority of his office, personally single
sourced and forcefully directed the BCC to pay the sum of D50,000 for a second
hand 25 KVA generator.
Count six indicated that on or about the 29th September 2004 in the City of
Banjul in abuse of his office entered into a leasehold agreement with one
Pape Faal for a period of twenty years without the consent of the Secretary of
State and thus in contravention of section 84 (2) of the Local Government Act
2002.
Justice Monageng found that the prosecution had failed to prove its case
beyond all reasonable doubt. She said the seller of the second hand towing
ambulance, Mr. Ndure, would have been a better and reliable witness for the court
since the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of BCC distanced himself from the
transaction which the mayor also denied in his testimony
Justice Monageng giving the analyses on count four said the blame should be
put on Mr. Othman (the CEO), who was the accounting officer and the mayor was
just facilitating for a supplier.
Here again she said Secka, the supplier was not called to court by the
prosecution, and Secka would have known who authorized him to supply council with
the comparators.
Justice Monageng also said the Cleansing Service Department of The BCC would
have told the court who authorized it to use the comparators before payment
was done to the supplier. On the purchase of the 25 KVA generator, the judge
said there is no evidence of single source or direction for council to pay
D50,000. She said the seller was not called as a witness to prove the act of
single sourcing.
On the structures at Primet Street, the judge said all the witnesses agreed
that the toilets were dilapidated, but Marie Dalliah was the odd one who was
adamant that council was not informed about the leasing of the area. Justice
Monageng added that the offence was not done by an individual but the council
and the act was done on behalf of the council. She said the mayor was acting
on councils interest and she has no power under section 84 (2) of the Local
Government Act to punish the mayor for that. The judge found that the
standard of proof was not met by the prosecution. She accordingly acquitted and
discharged him of all the charges against him.
African Horse Sickness Reported In Senegal
Gambia Intensifies Preventive Measures
By Yaya Bajo
Following an outbreak of African Horse Sickness in the Senegalese region of
Tambakunda, Veterinary authorities in the Gambia have embarked on massive
horse vaccination exercise in a bid to prevent any trans-boundary infection.
This was disclosed to Foroyaa by the Director of Veterinary Services, Dr.
Babucarr Jaw in an exclusive interview in his office at Abuko.
Dr. Jaw divulged that when they received the information of an African Horse
Sickness outbreak around Tambakunda, they immediately carried out massive
vaccination exercise in collaboration with a local NGO called Horse and Donkey
Trust. He explained that African Horse Sickness, unlike African swine fever.
has a vaccine and therefore it can be prevented. The Veterinary Director
further said that they exchange sanitary information with their regional
counterpart with regards to all trans-boundary animal diseases. “We have a
surveillance network and there are ten (10) trans-boundary animal diseases that we are
monitoring,” Dr. Jaw revealed. He remarked that other countries in the
sub-region have a similar network and they share animal health informations through
bilateral cooperation or through World Animal Health Organisation (OIE). “
There is a trans-boundary task force in place because we have to harmonize our
strategies,” he concluded.
Employee Sues Trust Bank
By Bubacarr K. Sowe
The Trust Bank has been recently taken to court by one of its employees,
Augustus Sarr, who is claiming over D 4,866,760, which he said the bank has
delayed in paying him.
In July this year, Mr. Sarr was declared innocent by the High Court over
missing funds at the banks Farafenni branch where he once served as branch
manager. From November 2005 to August 2007, Mr. Sarr was only receiving part of
his monthly salary but the bank has not updated his payment since he was
cleared of wrong doing by a High Court Judge.
Sarr is now seeking a recovery of his outstanding wages amounting to D186,
760.85. He is also claiming an interest on the sum of D186, 760.85 at a rate
of 25% annually from November 2005 of the date of judgment and there after at
the rate of 4% to the date of payment.
Sarr who will be 35 years old by November 16 is also claiming a monthly wage
to the time of his retirement at 60 years. His current wage is D15, 000
monthly and if he is to be paid up to his retirement, it would amount to D4, 680,
000.
The matter resumes on November 6 at the Banjul Magistrates Court before
Magistrate Sagar Jobateh, while Ousainou Darboe and Mary Samba represent the
Plaintiff and the defendant, respectively. He is still a staff of the bank, but
could not resume work without his wages being paid in full.
RE: INTERVIEW WITH HALIFA SALLAH (PART 3)
We discontinue the interview of Halifa Sallah to publish the reaction to
Part Three of the interview. See the next issue for the continuation. – Editor
The Editorial Board,
FOROYAA (FREEDOM) Newspaper, Churchill’s Town,
Serrekunda.
Sir,
Your interview with Mr. Sallah on the exchange rate of the Dalasi (Foroyaa
issue no. 122/2007) touched on a very thorny issue that needed a careful
analysis. The effects of a strong currency spurred, not by our country’s exports
earning capabilities, but an over­supply of the US dollar in the exchange
markets is a recipe for severe economic dislocation. Halifa’s legitimate
concern about the cyclical nature of the dalasi is not hard to discern. Sound
economic management and an outward-oriented trade and industrialization
strategies are important economic components of successful and sustainable
development. It is the people, banks and businesses, not government, that are the
source of a nation’s prosperity.
The recent rise of the dalasi against the backdrop of mounting essential
commodity prices and electricity charges should be a cause for concern to
anybody who has the interest of the average Gambian. Every currency system involves
a delicate balance of costs and benefits and learning to appreciate a strong
currency will be difficult as long as anxieties about the steep rises in
prices remain.
A stronger dalasi has the tendency to crimp sales abroad and boost spending
at home. Imported goods will become cheaper and the consumers will gain
through greater increase in purchasing power. Cheaper imports will raise household’
s real income, fuelling consumption. And by keeping a lid on inflation, it
will permit lower interest rates, which in turn stimulate domestic spending.
So why the complaints?
One concern is that the dalasi’s recent cyclical movements will turn into a
destabilizing rout if businesses and traders start losing faith in the state
of our economy. An expensive dalasi will create unwanted trade deficits-
further worsening our already BOP situation ­which in turn create a run down
on the reserves and deepen GDP.
There are those who still believe that the strength of the dalasi is a
reflection of prudent economic management and a symbol of economic power as
erroneously alluded to by a respectable religious leader. It is a dangerous fallacy
to link an inconvertible currency to economic performance that can make our
vision to go with the wind. Although exchange rates should reflect economic
fundamentals, a market determined exchange rate exudes better economic
performance than a controlled and managed rate. The dalasi is inconvertible and our
main export earners apart from remittances (also affected by the rise in the
dalasi) are the receipts from tourism and groundnuts. Since revenue
shortfalls have been registered in respect of export earnings, the only logical
explanation for the recent rise of the dalasi is an ‘unusual’ influx of a
significant amount of foreign currency in the foreign exchange markets amid concerns
over the state of the weakening dollar, thus creating an excessive,
irrational demand for dalasi. Since the CFA franc has a fixed parity with the euro any
movement in the exchange rate between the dalasi and the euro would have
triggered a similar movement against the CFA. According to independent
researchers the most sought after currency in our economy is the dollar, followed by
the CFA, then the euro. The volume of currency traded formerly in the inter-b
ank markets has been steadily rising with enormous propensity.
The financial services sector had registered remarkable growth recently with
more banks from the sub-region opening their doors in this country. Yet most
of these banks are yet to maximize investments in the productive sectors in
order to stimulate growth and create more employment. Most of the investments
that banks made over the past years were in the money markets mainly
Government Treasury Bills. The amount of funds invested in these bills would have
stupendously benefited the economy if it was channeled in the priority sectors.
In Senegal, banks are actively working with the local investors (Senegalese)
to develop the manufacturing and commercial sectors which as recently
reported by a Lead Economist at the World Bank, Jacques Morrisset, account for 97%
of the 100,000 people who get employed every year. The current unemployment
rate in Senegal is reportedly 25%. In other West African countries like Ghana
and Nigeria, it is the commercial banks that are also spearheading the
development agenda by pro-actively providing development credit to the local
businesses and investors.
Let me give you a distressing case to buttress my argument. Sometime last
year, I met a Lebanese friend who just came to the country to join his family
members. Barely a month after his arrival, he walked into one of the major
banks and arranged for a 90-day Letter of Credit to pay for the goods he ordered
from a foreign supplier. When the goods arrived at the ports, he negotiated
direct delivery with the Customs. Within three months he was able to sell the
goods and pay off the bank and Customs. That business wholly financed by the
bank, only created employment for two shop assistants and a driver.
On the other hand, a Gambian with two landed properties who has been banking
with the same bank for over fifteen years was denied a loan for the simple
reason that his account was not consistently active for a period of time. His
explanation to the bank was that he was sacked three times from different
jobs and that affected the movements of funds in his account. Even with two
title deeds as collateral for the loan to set up a business that will employ six
to eight Gambians, his request was turned down and was asked to come back
after a year. This therefore begs the question- was the bank acting in the
national interest or was it a case of purely preferential treatment? This
situation would have been different in the banking industries in our neighboring
countries where banks prioritize their investment portfolio in favor of the
productive sectors.
It strains credulity to argue that banks are in business to make profits and
consequently they are well informed about the conditions of the forex
markets and are better equipped to deal with the cyclical movements of the dalasi
through effective risk management strategies than the bureaus. There are a
number of market instruments that banks can use to hedge against currency
fluctuations like arbitrage in the spot and future currency markets, and therefore
I find it hard to believe that banks could be involved in hoarding the
dalasi. This government must have effective regulatory strategies to curb the
growing players in the market for foreign currencies. Otherwise, the stability of
our economy will be at the behest of speculative profiteering by money
dealers. Since the Gambia is not immunized against severe currency fluctuations,
external shocks outside the country can have multiplier effects in our economy.
The need for a prudent regulation of the commercial banks, allied with
development, implementation and management of sound policy is critical to ensure
the robustness and resilience of a healthy economic system.
The strategy that augurs well is to encourage greater private investments in
the productive sectors and have more stringent supervisory framework for
banks. The growing number of banks (a total of 9 banks as at October 18, 2007),
and, the complexity and magnitude of the inter-bank and foreign currency
transactions created a strong and more formal emphasis on regulation and
supervisory practices in the country. Getting to our vision in 2020 is becoming much
harder than we might like and all hands should be on deck to achieve this
goal. Mr. Sallah’s analysis of the current situation of the dalasi points to a
pressing case for careful review and urgent action.
Lee Iacocca once noted, “ You can have brilliant ideas; but if you can’t
get them across, your ideas wont get anywhere.” The frequent interviews with
Halifa provide examples of learning this valuable principle.
I want to thank you for publishing my story and wish my contribution is only
taking as a patriotic citizen dutifully contributing towards national
development and not in any other political context or motives.
Dr. A O Faal.
UTG, SMCM Exchange Programme In Progress
By Isatou Bittaye and Gubairu Janneh
The University of The Gambia (UTG) and St Mary’s College Maryland (SMCM)
through its exchange programme on Saturday, October 20, conducted a field study
trip to Sibanor and Somita villages in Foni. The visit came as a result of a
course being offered in the programme “Policy Issues in Poverty and
Development.” The aim of the visit was to examine the standard of living of the people
in the village, development initiatives and its impact on the lives of the
people, achievements, constraints and challenges of the people in the village.
The students led by Mr. Gumbo Ali Touray, Director of International Affairs,
UTG and lecturer of the course, and Professor Femi Ojo Adeye, coordinator of
St Mary’s students in The Gambia. The students were received at the Alkalo’
s compound of Sibanor, Banfa Ceesay and they conducted a tour of the town to
see development projects before meeting with the Village Development
Committee and elders of the town. They visited the WEC Missionary Clinic and were
received by the doctor in charge of the clinic, Dr. Jemie Eskene. Dr. Eskene
said that the WEC missionary church which gives general medical attention to the
people was established since 1966. Dr. Jamie added that the clinic has a
total of seventy to eighty staff including fourteen nurses and they have two
ambulances. He said that they treat both Gambians and refugees along the border
mainly on HIV/AIDS and malnutrition. He added that they train all their staff
and over the years they used to have four and a half thousand admissions in
a year but the rate has now dropped to a quarter. Dr. Jamie said they used to
receive 10 cases of malaria a day but that too has now dropped as a result
of the use of bed nets by the people. He said the treatment they give has
greatly improved the lives of the people in Sibanor.
The team then proceeded to the water pyramid and met Mr. Sarjo Fabureh who
explained to them the three types of water that are being recycled by the
project. He said that they produced natural water, distilled water (purified
water) and rainwater. Sarjo said the project is sponsored by Agro-Water System in
Holland and was established in 2005 to give good quality water to the people
as the town has poor water quality. He said that the project is on
commercial basis but they sell the water at a reasonable price to the people. He noted
that a 10-litre gallon is sold at D3.00. The team later visited the police
post; lower and upper basic schools and the CCF Dingding Bantaba Day Care
Nursery School. Mr. Sainey Jarju, Chairman of the Day Care Nursery School, said
the school was established in 1984 and has 9 classrooms, and registered 252
students. Mr. Jarju added that they have sponsors from America and Taiwan and
their main constraint is the lack of adequate recreational materials for the
students. The team later held a meeting with the Village Development Committee
and elders of the town. Mr. Ba Ansu Sanneh, a member of the committee, said
Sibanor is the center from Brikama to Jarra Soma and is densely populated. He
said that they have a Nursery, Primary and Upper Basic School, police post,
Gamtel post, mosque and a church, market, clinic and an agricultural center.
Mr. Sanneh said they also registered development in sports as they organise
Newettan every year and they were also registered as a zone and took part
during zonal competition. He said that women are engaged in gardening and rice
cultivation. He also said their constraints are a senior secondary school,
water and electricity, mini stadium to develop sports and an expanded market. He
added that they also want a skills centre for students who dropped-out of
school and the improvement of their clinic. The lady Councillor, Ya Fatou
Sanyang, said that the women face water problem for their gardens and also need a
skills centre to help girls further their education. The students later
proceeded to Somita village and met with the elders and the village development
committee. Mr. Boto Sanyang, Secretary General of the VDC said they have a
clinic, which provides health care for the people. He added that they also have
four schools in the village and that sports develops as they engage in
Newettan. Mr. Sanyang said that they register improvements in environmental
protection and village structures. He said that the villagers through a “Tesito”
project built the clinic and have one nurse who pays attention to the villagers.
He said their main constraints are lack of senior secondary school, football
field for sports development, and the problem of inadequate water supply,
communication, and shortage of drugs to run the clinic. Mr. Sanyang said they
need a standard playing ground for sporting activities where they can generate
funds to develop other sectors and good communication network as it is a set
back for the villagers.
Marie Sanyang, a woman representative said they face problem of inadequate
water supply for their gardens. Marie added that they need a milling machine
as they pound their maize with their hands. She said that they also need
additional nurses for the clinic, as the only nurse available cannot serve the
whole community efficiently and effectively. Marie added that they struggle to
pay their children’s school fees and need assistance. She said that they need
assistance to solve their problems and setbacks in the village. Sanna Badjie
said they depended on farming which is mainly groundnut production which now
yields a low output. He said that they depend on that small yield for food,
clothing and other necessities which explains why their women also struggle to
pay school fees for their children. He said that incentives and inputs
should be provided for the farmers at an affordable cost in order to enhance
productivity. He added that the villagers would now engage in collective farming
to see whether their productivity would improve.
Disability Does Not Mean Inability
Interview With A Confined Wheelchair Doctor;
Bubacarr Jagne
By Ebrima Dibbasey
Continuation
The Medical field is very challenging, some time during your work you feel
very depressed, sad or disturbed, what do you do to overcome the stress?
Well we have been trained to cope with this type of things; of course I like
music and making friends. Mostly my friends are my family members and
colleagues I don’t like alcohol or smoking.
Are you involved with any Disabled people’s organisation to the level of
serving in an executive position?
Yes I am a member of GAPD (Gambia Association of the Physically Disabled)
and another group (disabled Tourism Sector Accessible and Friendly). With that
of the GAPD my problem is time. I am always busy with patients and executive
positions are supposed to be very demanding and if you happen to accept any
position you should be able to deliver. You should not be there just by name
and affect the entire disabled populace. So I don’t want to accept that
position and lag behind or make my patients suffer.
For Disabled Tourism Sector Accessible and Friendly I am a Vice Chairman in
an Adhoc committee, which is not very demanding. Mostly they call me to
attend meeting. This one is not every pressing. I think I can contribute my quota
in this area.
Few months back state police arrested disabled beggars at Supermarket,
Westfield Junction, Kairaba Shopping Centre, and other places. Now most of them
are finding things extremely difficult, what is your reaction to that?
I think it’s important that Disabled persons are being assisted or given
support by the state to be able to get income generating ventures so that there
will be a decline in the number of beggars. Even able-bodied persons beg but
they are not being arrested. If I am moving on the street, people approach me
but I do not bully them . So I think its not their fault to be beggars. Some
times people follow the disabled them up to their homes or in their houses
to give them alms. This has some thing to do with our culture and beliefs,
therefore I see no reason why they should be hunted or arrested. Actually
begging is not a crime, therefore they did not deserve such maltreatment by our
own police officers.
What would you like to say to the readership of this column?
I would like to say that life is a challenge and life in itself needs lots
of sacrifices. What makes oneself depends more on oneself. People should not
see disabled people as dependents and not useful, but they should be given
their basic needs in life and the disabled as individuals, if they are given the
proper attention could become very useful members of the society.
Significantly parents, society and the Government should encourage the disabled to
become productive members of the society.
You are 28 years now, actually when are you planning to get married?
I am looking forward to the right person. As soon I come across the person I
will definitely get married.
Mostly disabled people are discriminated with regard to public transport, I
know someone who works with the Department of State for Health and Social
Welfare. He is among hundreds of disabled who are being discriminated daily when
going to work. Mostly he would spend two to three hours looking for
transport to get to work and for many of his colleagues it is the same.
This has been an experience for myself when I was attending my medical
course at the university, which involves a lot of travelling. Many vehicles always
pass me. My wheelchair is foldable. I could fold it but they still pass me
eventhough they have all the space to take me.
They feel that I am going to waste their time .If they stop they would
charge double price for the wheelchair and myself. They would argue that the
wheelchair takes space. Sometimes the police officers would ask them not to carry
my wheelchair in the van. That it’s a risk to people in the van. Mostly my
colleagues would put my wheelchair on their laps. Sometime we will pass a
police officer that would stop the van and say we should not take the wheelchair
in the van. I actually faced lots of discrimination when it comes to
transportation. Some of the vehicle owners do normally say they don’t have time to
wait for me to park my wheelchair in the van; that I will be wasting their time.
Maybe if I am someone I can also say in attending to my patients that I will
not attend to him/her, but no I will not do that because I am aware and have
understanding. I think we need more of awareness raising as equal members of
the society with equal values. I think disabled organisations should also
try to find means of transport or vehicles for their members. GOVI transport
their members to and from work and school. I think this is a very good
initiative. Other organisations should also do the same thing.
Some of the elites who are economically independent with good education,
with good jobs have good income/money do not like to associate themselves with
their disabled colleagues who are less endowed. How do you see that?
I believe no human being is more important than the other, whether disabled
or not, wealthy or poor, educated or illiterate. As far as we have the five
common senses we can think rightly and act right, then we are equal.
Those elites or wealthy disabled who may disassociate themselves from the
ordinary disabled may not know what they can gain from them. They will be able
to learn a lot from them by associating themselves to them. If you are not
with them you will not know what they are going through, how they feel etc.
Sometime I do visit GAPD office not because I have a problem but just to
know what they are up to. If I have anything to offer I do pass it to them, just
recently some people abroad contacted me and informed me that they want to
send some wheelchairs. I went to them (GAPD) and informed them about it and how
best we can get in touch with them so that we can have the items. So I
always pass by there and give useful information to them.
You have achieved one stage in life being a professional medical doctor,
what is your next step?
I want to be an internal medicines doctor, a physician. I want to pursue my
postgraduate as soon as possible. I have already started my registration .I
am looking forward to get my scholarship as soon as i finish my house job.
What is your final word to our readership?
Let the society create the enabling environment for the productivity of
disabled people; from the president, Secretaries of State, Permanent Secretaries,
Directors and NGOs, both Nationally and internationally and we the disabled
must be willing to change positively for the good of ourselves and the
society at large.
Thank you for sharing your time and valuable knowledge with our readership.
It’s a pleasure, thank you.
MARRIAGE AND FAMILY
Discrimination In The Family
Bani Meets Mr. Right
Chernor Baba alias Prince Charles rang Bani. At first, she was baffled. She
never thought in her life that a rich guy could remember her much more to
talk about giving her a call. She answered the phone excitedly. Che invited her
to a date. They went to an exortic restaurant. They enjoyed the food and
drink. Che invited her to a shopping spree to America. It sound too good to be
true.
Mama And Bani
She explained to her. “Can you remember Prince Charles at your cocktail
party?” “The mega rich guy? Who would forget such a person? I do remember. What
about him? “Mama” asked. He invited me for dinner and has announced his
intention to take me to New York for a shopping spree”. “What did you tell him?”
Mama asked. “I agree”. “Right! That’s my daughter! This is the type of guy
I want you to hang out with. He will take care of all our luxurious needs.
Opportunity knocks only but once. Make hay while the sun shines is my motherly
advice to you”. “Thank you mom. I’ll do exactly what you advice”. Bani
took out a cheque of D200, 000. “Cash it into your saving account. You’ll need
it at an opportune time”. Mama advised.
The Shopping Spree
Bani went to New York with Che. They shop ‘New York,’ household items
wedding dress, suit and accessories, and every other thing they think necessary
for their marriage life. The heavy items were sent by freight. They bought
along the light items packaged into many suitcases. Mama was overwhelmed when
Bani entered the house with the goodies. “What! All these for you?” Mama asked.
“Yes mama! These are not all. The heavy items are coming by freight”. She
showed mama a chegue of half a million dalasis. Mama hugged and praised her
daughter. “Now you are talking my daughter, put the half a million into your
account immediately”. She advised. Bani agreed.
Zainab And Sulayman
Zainab came with her husband Saul to apologize to her mum. They brought
along some gifts for mama. Zainab went on her knees to beg her mom. “Mama
forgives us if we have offended you with our follies. We love ourselves. We
apologize for Allah’s sake”. Mama is mean and spiteful. She is full of revenge. She
neither forgives nor forgets. She asked Zai to get up. “Get up! You owe me no
apology. I was just carrying motherly duty which you rejected totally. You
have your life and I have mine. I wanted a good life for both of you, yourself
and your eldery sister. My only prayer is never turn back to me for help. I’
ll not give it to you. Take away your gifts. I don’t need them. You have
chosen your path. So be it! No future assistance. Am sorry, good bye!” she rudely
left them gaping at the sitting room.
Bani Enjoys Herself
Bani and Che are enjoying themselves hopping from one exclusive place to
another. Bani is high up in the heavens. The events are too good to be true. In
one of the outings Che proposed to her. He gave her an engagement ring. Che
is an Aku Marabout. Bani was overexcited. She accepted immediately. This moment
became a dream come true for Bani.
Bani At Home
Bani came home quite excited. She shave mama her finger. “What?” She
exclaimed. “Has he?” “Yes! He proposed and I immediately accepted”. Bani
responded. “Whaw! That great!” Mama exclaimed. “Your ring is dazzling like a star”.
“It is a diamond ring”. Mama hugged and congratulated her daughter replied.
“This is what I wanted for both of you. You have made it. Keep it up my
beautiful daughter! When you marry the right man you became a winner for life.
Che is Mr. Right. You have won a jackpot!” Mama confirmed.
First Class Marriage
Bani and Che’s marriage was first class in every meaning of the word. It was
first class, V.I.P from beginning to end. Every activity was by invitation
except the mosque marriage, where believers who attended the mosque became
part of the ceremony. They could not be sent away on class basis. That is
unheard of.
The reception party was exclusive and V.I.P. The present given by the class
was a fortune. They went to Hawaii for a honeymoon. The couples were in the
heavens. Che adored Bani. They loved themselves. Mama bragged and boasted
about them. To her, they were the only couples that mattered.
Aja Binta And Mama
Aja Binta went on a business trip to Singapore when Zai gave birth to her
twins. Mama did not inform her about it. She heard it from friends when she
visied Mama. She reprimanded her. “Zai gave birth to twins. And you did not
inform me at least by text which will cost you very little”. Mama reacted. “I
have nothing to do with that bitch and dog. They are out of my system. I care
less about the puppies!” Haja B. exclaimed”!! You referred to your daughter,
her husband and kids as bitch, dog and puppies? You are mean and wicked.
Allah will punish you. Ishallah! If you don’t repent. You should be right now
with your daughter. She is nursing twins as her first children. She is
inexperience. You have to help out and encourage her to practice (optimal) exclusive
breastfeeding. The kids are your first grand children for Allah’s Sake. One of
them your namesake. Your daughter and her husband love and adore you. That’s
why they name their daughter after you. You snob and scorn them. You refuse
their gifts. You metaphorically slapped their faces. Change your ways girl!
You call yourself a devout muslim but you are not practicing what you preach”.
Mama started to make some excuses. “I am busy. I have no time for those
wretches. What about my job?” “Nonsense! Take a month’s casual leave and show
your daughter what to do. Make amends and then come back to your job. You are
the boss”. Haja B advised. Mama was cornered. She has no more excuses.
The Convoy
Che travels in a Convoy of expensive cars. Mama went to town and saw his
convoy. She tried to stop it but was ignored. She rang Che from the mobile and
explained herself. “My in-law! I saw your convoy in town and I tried to stop
you but you wouldn’t”. Che got annoyed. “But in-law! That is not etiquette!
That is undone. Never try to stop me in the street again. I’ll not do it even
for the Queen of England. Excuse me!” Mama was rebuked. She felt
embarrassed. “What is wrong?” She shrugged her shoulders. “I was just trying to show
him my presence. I don’t need a lift. I have my official car”. She soliloqued.
To be cont.
Tribute To Lucky Dube
A Music Legend
By Ousman Sillah
Reggae music lovers in Africa, and people from all over the world were
shocked, devastated and outraged by the news of the tragic passing of the
world-renowned South African superstar and reggae legend Lucky Dube. According to
reports he was slained in Johannesburg on Thursday 18 October around 8pm, while
dropping two of his children at a brother’s house.
The death of Lucky Dube is a tragedy that has suddenly brought his 25 years
of music to an end and thus leaving a void that will be very difficult to
fill. He is considered by many as the world’s greatest reggae musician at the
time of his death. Lucky was aptly described as “a man with superb musical
taste and genius, an artist with a message, with a reason and a rhyme behind
everything he does”.
His songs centred on messages in three main areas-political, social, and
personal issues. Lucky’s music is riddled with the desire to make the world a
better place for everybody. He hated injustice, oppression, tyranny and
exploitation. His abhorrence of racism, tribalism and corruption were reflected in
his songs.
As a prolific force in music for almost 25 years, Lucky’s music, which is
laden positive messages in the reggae genre has touched millions through his 22
recorded albums in Zulu, English and even Afrikaans and many of which have
broken records and with phenomenal sales from around the globe. His social
maturity, political awareness, humility, conscience, feeling and love for
people, creativity and inventiveness had kept him growing from strength to strength
and earning him admiration, adoration and accolades from fans all over the
world.
Lucky Philip Dube was born in a small farm in Ermelo, a small town which is
150 kilometres East of Johannesburg, on 3 August 1964. Lucky Dube died at the
tender age of 43 years and is survived by his new wife Zanele and his seven
children Bongi, Nonkulueko, Thokozani, Laura, Siyanda, Philani and the
three-month-old baby Melokuhle.
To the fans, it is not enough to revere Lucky Dube; it is not enough to love
his songs only; it is not enough to weep for him. What he was prophesizing
about and would have loved his fans and all of humanity to be doing is to
imbue, cherish and practice love for justice, solidarity and empathy for one
another.
Lucky Dube is gone but he will be remembered forever.
World Campaign For In-depth Reform Of International Institutions Systems
Intensifies
By Yaya Bajo
In commemoration of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty,
Children for Children Organisation (CFCO), on Saturday October 20 organised a
symposium in its drive to intensify world campaign for in-dept reform of the
system of international institutions at Girl’s Guide Conference Hall in
Kanifing.
Speaking on the topic “The need and importance of in-dept reform of the
system of international institutions, in order to advance towards global
democratic governance and to take part in the resolutions of the World’s greatest
problems and challenges,” Mr. Alieu Darboe, governance manager Action Aid The
Gambia who also doubles as chairperson Board of directors Child Protection
Alliance, said the end of second world war ushered in new international
organisations which have created international systems that are oppressive and one-
sided. He added that what this international systems ensued was Semblance of
injustices and imbalances between the developed and developing countries.
Mr. Darboe stated that the havoc of free trade that existed between the rich
and poor countries and the hijacking of UN by the United States of America,
there is an urgent need for reforms and concerned citizens around the world
are out for this struggle. He added that fundamental questions such as which
urgent proposals required changes, how can a sensible hierarchy of
international organisations be changed, how can the global majority cooperate in this
crusade, and how can the interest of the future generation influence these
changes? Need urgent answers he said.
“This is required because humanity is facing serious problems- we still have
not achieved peace and security in the world and huge number of planet
inhabitants continue to live in poverty.” He dilated on democracy and said as a
result; people all over the world are beginning to claim their democratic
rights. He concluded by asserting that another world is possible where democracy
will reign, poverty will be eradicated and social imbalances will be history.
For his part, Madi Jobarteh, Chairperson Children for Children Organisation
also serve as programme moderator expressed dismay over the incapability of
international institutions to deliver on their responsibilities. He decried
the lack of opportunity for less developed countries to have a say in the
decision making process of United Nations’ Security Council. Mr. Jobarteh also
spoke on the negative impacts the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPAs) will
have on the ACP countries if implemented. He added that this is precisely the
reason why Civil Society organisations are campaigning against its
implementation. The occasion was punctuated by drama plays on the significance of the
topic.
In GNTU Forgery Trial
Defence Witness Testifies
By Modou Jonga
The alleged forgery trial involving the state and Mr. Abdoulie Sosseh
proceeded on Monday 22 October with the testimony of the first defence witness,
Alieu Ngum .The application by Mr. Sosseh to re-cross examine the first
prosecution witness Mr. Daddy Sowe on the financial discrepancies of the Transport
Union was not granted by Magistrate Njie.
In his brief testimony Mr. Ngum told the court, that he is an active member
of the union and that he is a field coordinator of the said union. He noted
that, he together with others influences the accused to join the union; that
the accused asked about the constraints and status of the union. The witness
stated that he introduced the accused to the members of the union and that the
accused was informed of the constraints of the union.
The said constraints according to the witness, which include rental arrears
of thirty thousand Dalasi for the union office and a further thirteen
thousand seven hundred and fifty Dalasi as telephone arrears, are brought to the
attention of the accused. The witness stated that the accused informed them that
he would pay the said arrears and that he enquired about the fund raising
activities and the total membership of the union. The witness noted that the
accused was told that the union generates income; that at the said time, the
membership cards were without serial numbers and that union members were not
contributing financially and were not committed.
At a subsequently meeting, the witness noted that in the presence of the
union President Daddy Sowe and in the absence of the union General Secretary, a
bitter argument ensued between the said president and one Ousman Drammeh on
the sale of union membership cards. He told the court, that Mr. Daddy Sowe was
asked on the sales of membership cards, at various branches of the union and
that the latter named Barra, Farafenni and Bureng but that Brikama and Basse
are devoid of union members. Subsequently the witness said the union
president was urged by the accused to contact the respective representatives of the
union at the said places.
Testifying further, Mr. Ngum noted that at another meeting, union agents
were called but neither the president nor the said agents were able to produce
concrete details of the supply and sale of union membership cards. The witness
said the accused urged the Executive Members to be resolved to open a new
page and that membership cards should have serial numbers, forms amongst
others, in order to ensure Transparency. He stated that such idea by the accused
was commended and approved by the union president and Executive Members. Upon
such commendation by the union president, the witness noted that the latter
has called for an executive meeting and at that meeting; changes on the
letterhead and designs of the membership cards were suggested and accepted.
The witness testified that the accused has given an amount of one thousand
five hundred Dalasi meant to facilitate the smooth preparation of the new
membership cards. The witness recalled that at an executive meeting, it was
agreed upon in the presence of the union president that since the union vice
President is not educated, the accused was made the first vice president.
The witness said while in the United States, the accused was communicated to
on the issues of the said cards and that the cards were satisfactorily
prepared. Upon the arrival of the accused, which coincided, with the inevitable
eviction of the union from their office complex, the witness noted that the
accused has urged for the executive members to facilitate the search for a new
office complex preferably in Banjul. At that juncture, the witness said the
accused lamented that as they were on the verge of being evicted from their
office, such eviction could affect the correspondence of the union. Someone was
assigned to handle the looming shortcomings of the union correspondence the
witness emphasized.
While noting that the union president is aware and had approved such
changes, the witness told the court that Ebou Bahoum, second prosecution witness did
not attend meetings and that the latter was not present at various meetings
that initiated the said changes of the letterhead and membership cards.
While being cross examined, the witness stated that the said changes are
that serial numbers were to be included on the new membership cards, shortening
of the long name of the union and the inclusion of a postal address. It was
also suggested that such would help to ensure transparency and the exact
membership of the union.
When the list of the Union Executive was shown to him, the witness said one
Kebba Sarr listed as Auditor-General and one Foday Fofana are non-executive
members and that the said Foday Fofana was in prison during elections. He told
the court that he was unanimously elected and that he has given his
statement to the police. The witness emphasised that, he is a credible and truthful
witness contrary to the views of ASP Camara.
IEC HOLDS WORKSHOP ON ELECTORAL PROCESS
As Local Government Elections Draws Near
By Amie Sanneh
The Chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) Alhaji Mustapha
L. Carayol has described public support and confidence as essential to an
effective and reliable electoral system.
He noted that a great strength and asset of the commission lies in the
public confidence it has acquired since its inception. “There is the need also for
the holistic participation of all citizens in the electoral process he said.
The IEC Chairman was speaking on Monday at the opening of a two-day workshop
for stakeholders on the electoral process at the Kairaba Beach Hotel. He
added that the commission has a dire need for more infrastructure and logistical
support for its operations.
“The electoral process does not only have to be concentrated on the
functions of the Independent Electoral Commission, but it encompasses a wide range of
participation from the public sector,” he noted.
The IEC Boss went on to highlight their stakeholders in electoral process,
which among others includes: the government, political parties, electorate,
security, media etc. “They have different roles to play so as to witness the
conduct of free, fair and transparent elections in our country,” says IEC
Chairman.
Mr. Carayol also highlighted the roles, aims and functions of the IEC.
The role of the IEC Mr. Carayol said is to ensure that the people of The
Gambia are given the opportunity (1) associate freely and hold political opinion
without undue hindrance; and (2) to elect their representatives in free and
fair elections.
“Governance in The Gambia is based on a written constitution, which clearly
defines the framework within which the Government operates and prohibits over
concentration of authority in any person or branch of government,” he
remarked.
IEC Chairman pointed out that since its inception, the IEC has actively
taken up its responsibility and manage to create an enabling environment where
Gambians can exercise their rights and responsibilities.
The Representative of UNDP Vitalie Munteen called on participants to reflect
on the previous elections and critically examine legal issues like the legal
framework, modernization of the registration process, build capacity for all
political parties etc in their roles as poll watchers on Election Day.
He assured them of UNDP’s support at all times.
National Assembly Members, Chiefs, Civil Society Organisations, the Media
among other dignitaries, attended the program.
Malaria Drug Offers New Hope
Malaria Infects Half a Billion People Each Year
Scientists are reported to have developed a cure for malaria that has been
successfully tested on monkeys.
A team of researchers discovered a drug which stops the disease from
spreading by preventing malaria parasites from reproducing.
The disease is one of the most prevalent and deadly in the world, affecting
about half a billion people each year, according to the World Health
Organisation (WHO).
The new drug could be available for testing on human beings within about two
years, reports the American journal Science.
Until now, most anti-malaria drugs have only had limited effectiveness and
new strains of the disease have developed which are resistant to treatment.
The team of European and South African scientists said the new drug, called
G25, completely cured monkeys infected with the disease in laboratory
experiments. Parasites
Malaria is transmitted to victims by blood-sucking mosquitoes.
Microscopic parasites enter the victim’s blood stream and liver, where they
multiply, before entering red blood cells.
There they continue to reproduce, burst the blood cells and infect more red
blood cells in an ongoing process.
The parasites can eventually kill 70% of blood cells, causing anaemia, coma
and death.
G25 blocks the parasites’ ability to multiply in the blood cells by
preventing it from making protective membrane, crucial to the parasites’ life cycle.
Team leader Dr Henri Vial, from the French National Centre of Scientific
Research, said the new drug killed all the parasites within two days.
Other studies suggest that the parasite failed to develop resistance to the
new drug, even though researchers encouraged it to do so. Malaria kills
almost 3m people, mostly in Africa and Southeast Asia, each year, according to WHO
figures.
One of the main drawbacks to G25 is that it has to be injected, although
tablet form should be available within two years.
“For people from Africa or from Asia it is more safe to take the drug orally,
” said Mr Vial.
Mr Vial said that while it worked well, G25 was not the definitive cure and
work was already under way to develop an improved version.
EX- KMC MAYOR’S CASE
Augustus Prom Testifies
By Fabakary B. Ceesay
Mr. Augustus Prom, the head of the Augustus Prom Firm of Accountants said he
audited the 2003, 2004 and 2005 accounts of The Gambia Scouts Association in
2006. Mr. Prom was testifying as a prosecution witness in the alleged trial
of theft by ex-mayor of Kanifing Municipal Council, who was also the chief
scout commissioner of The Gambia Scouts Association. He testified on Monday 22
October before Principal Magistrate Moses Richards.
Mr. Prom said he knew the accused person Mr. Alieu Momar Njie as the Chief
Scout Commissioner, when he was asked to audit The Gambia Scouts accounts and
Jacob Foundation Project in 2006. He said he had been auditing the scout’s
account for the last ten years. Mr. Prom said after auditing the three accounts
he wrote a report with a certificate and a management report. He said copies
of the certificate were given to the commissioners including the chief
commissioner. He noted that the certificate was unsigned but was later signed in
his office in the presence of the police. He said after the signing all
parties present were given a copy including the police. The auditing report for the
three years with the management report were tendered and marked as exhibits,
(A,B,C and D). There was no objection from the defence.
Going further, Mr. Prom added that the 2003 and 2004 report were signed by
the Chief Commissioner and the Treasurer, noting that the 2005 report was only
signed by Mr. Gibou Njie (PW1) as the Financial Commissioner. He pointed out
that Mr. Alieu Momar Njie refused to sign the 2005 report as the Chief Scout
Commissioner. He added that he enquired from Mr. Njie his reasons for not
signing it but Mr. Njie did not advance any explanations for his refusal. Mr.
Prom pointed out that putting one’s signature on the report means that the
person accepts the findings of the auditor. He noted that the refusal of Mr.
Njie to sign meant that he refused to be held responsible for the audit
findings. He added that Mr. Gibou Njie signed on behalf of the whole commission
members. During cross-examination by defence counsel Badou S.M Conteh, Mr. Prom
said he found nothing in his findings in three reports that implicate Mr. Alieu
Momar Njie of stealing D4 million dalasis. He added that he was aware that
Mr. Gibou Njie was forcefully ordered to produce the documents of 2005 for
auditing. He said he was also aware of the letter written by one Alagie A.E Cham
Joof on behalf of President Jammeh, that certain members of the Commission,
including Mr. Gibou Njie as the Financial Commissioner, were dismissed and
were ordered to surrender all documents for auditing. Mr. Prom said the letter
was directed to him dated 12 April 2007. The said letter was tendered in court
as defence exhibit (A). Mr. Prom indicated that by the time the letter
reached him, Mr. Gibou Njie had already given the documents to him. Mr. Prom noted
that he did not come across any payment by the Chief Financial Commissioner
without authorization. Mr. Alieu Momar Njie is standing trial for allegedly
stealing D4 million dalasis from The Gambia Scouts Association, when he was
the Chief Scout Commissioner of the association.
Tanji Sea Disaster
Seven Drowned, Thirty Rescued
By Modou Jonga
Reliable reports has it that the recent Tanji Sea disaster on 12th October
involving a canoe from Tanji in the Kombo South that was carrying fishermen
and other passengers, has led to the death of seven people.
Reports has it that the canoe capsized while entering the Senegalese
territorial waters was carrying thirty-seven passengers on board from Tanji all of
them going to attend Koriteh prayers at their respective destinations in
Senegal.
Speaking to this reporter at his office, Mr. Babucarr Sarr, General Manager
of Tanji Community Fisheries Centre disclosed that a report in the recent sea
tragedy is prepared by the Fisheries Department. According to Mr. Sarr, the
seven drowned victims are four men including one Alhagie Ebrima Sarr and
three females, who were all students and that thirty were rescued. Mr. Sarr
confirmed that thirty-seven were on board the canoe at the time of the accident.
On the cause of the sea disaster, the Tanji Fisheries Manager lamented that it
was as a result of over loading and unfriendly storm at sea. He stated that
the said canoe was loaded with seven bags of sugar, fifteen gallons of
twenty-litre vegetable oil. While noting that the nets and the out put engine of the
said canoe are yet to be seen, he lamented that all the drowned people are
Senegalese and their names and ages are unavailable. Mr. Sarr while describing
the tragic death of the late Alhagie Ebrima Sarr as a huge loss of the
fisheries sector revealed that the Tanji community fisheries centre has donated
thirty thousand dalasis to families of the victims of this tragic sea accident.
When contacted, Mamadi Sarr, a brother to the late Alhagie Ebrima Sarr
expressed grief and sorrow over the death of his brother. He reiterated that the
death of his brother has left a void in the fisheries sector and will greatly
retard the construction of canoes at Tanji, as he and his late brother
manufactured canoes. He noted that one of the rescued passengers was Nfamara Ndong
who was referred to RVTH for medical attention. The late Alhagie Ebrima Sarr
is said to be survived by four wives and five daughters.
AFRICAN UNION
African Commission on Human & Peoples’ Rights
REJOINDER TO THE ARTICLE HEADED “TRAINING FOR WEST AFRICAN JOURNALISTS
CALLED OFF”, IN THE FOROYAA EDITION OF 22-23 OCTOBER 2007
The Secretariat of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights
(ACHPR) would like to inform the general public that no orders were received from
anybody or any quarter to cancel the Human Rights Workshop for West African
Journalists that should have taken place on 19 and 20 October 2007 as part of
activities to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the African Commission and to
mark African Human Rights Day.
The cancellation, which was at the last minute, was due to financial
constraints.
The Workshop, however, will still be held in Banjul, The Gambia, as soon as
the required funding has been secured.
AFRICAN UNION
African Commission on Human & Peoples’ Rights
PRESS RELEASE
The Secretariat of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights
(ACHPR) wishes to express its gratitude to all its partners and the Government of
The Gambia for their tireless collaboration and support in the activities
commemorating the African Human Rights Day (21st October) and the 20th
Anniversary of the African Commission.
The Secretariat expresses its heartfelt thanks to all those who took part in
the various activities, ranging from a march-past, road-race, lecture and
soccer tournament for lower basic schools that began on October 15th and ended
on 21st October. It is hoped that we all would build on the momentum gained
to further the human rights culture agenda in the African continent.
POSTPONED HUMAN RIGHTS WORKSHOP FOR WEST AFRICAN JOURNALISTS
The Secretariat regrets that one of the activities planned (Human Rights
Workshop for West African journalists) that should have taken place on 19 and 20
October 2007 in collaboration with the Open Society Initiative for West
Africa (OSIWA), was called off due to financial constraints. The Workshop,
however, will still be held in Banjul, The Gambia, as soon as the required funding
has been secured.
Interview With DJ Mo
The role of DJs in modern music is such that some do argue that music would
not have been where it is today had it not been the pivotal contributions of
DJs. In this interview Foroyaa puts under the spotlight DJ Mo who is without
a shadow of doubt one of the nation’s revered and experienced DJs. He has over
the years brought many upcoming Gambian artists to the limelight.
By Musa Barrow
Amazingly, DJ Mo is known almost through out the length and breath of this
nation, but only by the name DJ Mo. Tell us something about yourself?
My real name is Modou Sireh Jallow and I was born in Banjul on the 8th of
February 1965. I also did both my primary and secondary education in Banjul.
Which schools did you attend?
I attended Campama Primary School and later proceeded to Crab Island
Secondary School.
When did you first engage yourself in this business of music and what
motivated you to do so?
I started my DJ career as far back as 1982. My motivation for choosing this
particular career is to promote love, unity and peace which I believe music
can bring.
Given the negative perception towards being a DJ, how did you cope with the
pressure and manage to establish yourself?
Well, as far as I am concerned I have always had the conviction that the job
of DJ profession can be as noble as any other job. As you rightly pointed
out it is not easy during the starting, but my objectives of becoming a role
model and proving a point have always driven me through out. In addition, I
would like to tell all those doubting thomases that the job of DJ is also a
lucrative venture.
Don’t you think the behaviours of some DJs who promote all sorts of immoral
actions, is contributing to the negative perception surrounding DJs?
I totally concur with you that some DJs are not in any way helping our
cause, but you should understand that in every group there must be some
undiserable elements.
But it would be totally wrong to judge all DJs by the actions of the few. I
am myself a law abiding Dj who does not under any circumstances condone
illegal and irresponsible behaviour.
What is the role of DJs as far as music is concern?
DJ has a very indispensable role in music. In addition to promoting
musicians, DJs are also tasked to inform and entertain audiences through the music
they play. All good DJs play songs containing positive and conscious messages.
DJs who play songs promoting immoral behaviour should cease to do so.
As an experienced DJ, how would you describe the state of music in The
Gambia?
Frankly, prospects do not look that much great for musicians in The Gambia.
If you look at the number of cassette sales just five years ago and compare
it to the number selling now you would definitely notice a significant drop.
As far as this decline is concerned, I have no doubt that the musicians
themselves have contributed to their own down fall.
In what way do the musicians contribute to their own down fall?
Recently, many upcoming Gambian artists have been sponsored by profit making
companies who invite these upcoming artists to perform in free shows. As an
artist, how can your cassettes sell when you are being viewed on stage
frequently at no cost.
Are you saying that the signing of upcoming Gambian artists by profit making
companies on contractual basis is not good for the young artists?
Yes, the signing of young Gambian artists by profit making companies is not
all good for their future career. The only thing these young artists can earn
from their contracts is daily cash.
After having interviewed some upcoming artists, they pointed piracy as one
of the obstacles they face. Do you share their opinion, if not what do you
think is their problem?
Well, I do not think piracy is a problem because you only pirate a work
which is in high demand. Their works are not that much attractive to attract the
attention of pirates. Basically, I think the problem is young artists seem
not to have an exclusive right over their brand name. Everybody can use their
names even without their knowledge.
Do you share criticism that our young and upcoming Gambian artists do not
play traditional Gambian music?
I do not share that criticism in modern music regardless of the style of
music you play. The most important thing is how appealing are the messages you
send across.
What do you think are some of the shortcomings of Gambian DJs?
In The Gambia now, anyone who distinguishes the play and stop button can
claim to be a DJ without even undergoing the necessary training. It is very
disheartening to hear some DJs putting songs to the wrong artists. These type of
DJs need to update themselves.
Before joining West Coast Radio which radio station did you first work for?
I first worked at Radio 1 FM from 1992 - 1993.
Over the years you must have amassed a host of experience?
Yes, infact before becoming a radio DJ I was a club DJ at Safari Night Club
in Brikama starting from 1982.
How would you compare being at the helm in a radio studio and club as DJ?
For one to be a good radio DJ, one is expected to promote and introduce the
artist whose songs are being played, while for that of club DJ one has to be
creative and respond to the demand of the audience immediately.
Thank you very much for sharing your thoughts with our readers.
Thank you very much. It’s a pleasure.
FOROYAA SPORT
Gambia Foreign Stars Roundup
By Modou Nyang
Austria – in the Austrian Bundesliga Pa Saikou Kujabi’s SV Josko Fenster
Ried picked up all three points on Saturday against Lask Linz whilst Modou Jagne
’s SC Rheindorf Altach shared theirs in a goalless draw with SV Mattersburg.
Pa Saikou was a 75th minute substitute whilst Jagne was not listed for Altach
’s game. Altach will today return to action against FC Wacker Tirol for a
rescheduled match.
Belgium – in Belgium, Mustapha Jarjue alias “Toubabo” and teammate Assan
Jatta collected their first three points at home with club Lierse in the Belgian
second division this term. Lierse being in the second division were not on
break as those in the first, during the international break. They played two
matches during the period drawing one and winning the other, Toubabo scoring
twice in their home demolition of R. FC. Tournai in a 3-0 win. Last Sunday
Lierse felled to narrow 1-0 defeat to Olympic Charleroi. Jarjue was involved for
the full period of the game whilst Jatta was an unused sub.
On the other side of the Belgian second division Ebrima Sawaneh and his club
KSK Beveren, on Sunday lost heavily to Antwerp FC. They were defeated 3-0.
in their earlier matches during the international break, Sawaneh continued his
goal scoring form turning out hero in their 1-0 win over Royal Union SG.
Cyprus – Mustapha Kamal Ndow in with his Cypriot club Doxa Katokopia FC
collected their second full three points in match day six of the Cyprus league.
Doxa won 2-1 against Ethnikos Achnas FC on Saturday to take tally to 8 points.
Denmark – Striker Njogu Demba was suspended for Esbjerg’s away match at FC
Midtjylland on Monday but his teammates rallied together to pull a brave 2-2
draw. Demba will return to action next Monday when Esbjerg again travel away
to play Aalborg.
England – in the English league 1 division Edrissa Sonko and club, Walsall
continued with their matches during the international break and Edi registered
his first goal in a Walsall shirt during the period. In their match against
Huddersfield Walsall won 4-0 with Sonko scoring the second. The Saddlers went
on to play a goalless draw with Tranmere on Friday 12th October. But last
Saturday they received a 2-0 humiliating home defeat in the hands of Southend.
Edi was involved in all matches.
Finland – in Finland Dawda Bah’s fortunes with HJK seems to have taken
another turn since they dropped out of the EUFA Cup resulting to the sacking of
former coach Keith Armstrong. And Dave who was always in the starting team was
a 65th minute substitute on Saturday against IFK Mariehamn. Despite the “
Banjul Wizard” being out of action during the international break as the
Scorpions were not in action. The match ended in a goalless draw and HJK will today
play against AC Oulu.
Holland – Ebou Sillah and his Dutch “Eerste Divisie” (second division) MVV
Maastricht last Friday won 2-0 against Haarlem FC. Sillah featured in the win
for Maastricht.
Norway – in the Norwegian Tippeligaen Tijan Jaiteh and Brann fall to a rare
defeat on Saturday against Alesund, the league leaders lost 2-1 and Tijan was
a 78th minute substitute. Down on the league table, Ebrima Sohna and his
struggling club Sandefjord played a goalless draw with Fredrickstad on Sunday.
Sandefjord are stocked at the bottom of the league table and are surely
destined for relegation.
Peru – in far away Peru, Yankuba Ceesay, alia Mal, was not in action for his
club Alianza Atlético as he sat out a suspension. However Alianza won 1-0
against Dep. Municipal on Friday.
Sweden – Pa Dembo Touray‘s Swedish Allsvenska club Djurgarden IF defeated
Halsmstad 2-1 on Monday to maintain their hot battle to claim the league title.
Djurgarden are second on the table but shares the same amount of points with
leaders Goteborg. They all have 46 points but Goteborg has an edge because
of goal difference. With only a single round of matches remaining to be
played, this Saturday will be an interesting day for both sides.
UAE – Ousman Jallow and his club Alain on Sunday lost 1-0 Al Shabab in their
second league match. Alain won their first in style with the Gambian striker
scoring a hatrick. Alain returns to action next month on Saturday 3rd.
USA – in the US Major League Soccer, Sainey Nyassi and Abdoulie Mansally
continue to study their pals from the bench as their club New England
Revolution, ended their regular league campaign with a second spot in the Eastern
Conference. Revolution played a 2-2 draw with Toronto FC on Saturday and the young
Gambian duo remained on the bench as unused subs. Revolution is now
preparing for the MLS championship decider (MLS Cup Playoffs) and they will face the
New York Red Bulls for the elimination semifinal double legged clash. The
return leg will be on November 3rd and the winner will progress to the final for
the decider of the league champions.
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