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Thank you, Mr President

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 04:54:37 GMT

Wednesday, January 07, 2009

Editor,

Please allow me space in your widely read newspaper to thank President Jammeh once again for his kindness in assisting Gambian pilgrims back home from Mecca.

He really shows a leadership role, and all Gambians should emulate him to contribute to the development of our motherland, The Gambia.

Author: Dr Sait Sarr, New York

Let’s face it (Happy New Year)

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 09:02:49 GMT

Tuesday, January 06, 2009

Editor,

Indeed the Gambia is the indisputably the smiling coast of Africa. This becomes more recognised under the dynamic leadership of His Excellency, Professor Dr Alhaji Yahya AJJ Jammeh, yes! To agree with me is very simple as we can draw the fact from all perspective of character concerning good and effectiveness governance of a state.

Now, it is said that the best leader is not necessarily the strongest or the wisest among others, but the one who cares for others. Fine, Professor Jammeh’s caring about his people and the entire Africa is not a secret. When we say “CARE” I think here we are talking about responsibility, and responsibility is the willingness of accepting any kind or form of task that comes your way without blaming any one or situation for it.

The professor cares first about his people’s well being (Health). This is demonstrated in his choice of serving as a native doctor, helping the sick; it is also demonstrated by his choice of working as a farmer, (leadership by example). Jammeh is also an exceptional football fan, demonstrated in his exemplary effort to promoting youth development.

Can somebody tell me why other nationalities are dying to get hold of Gambian documents? yet you never see Gambians struggling to get hold of documents of other countries. The reason is quite simply because of the peace and stability, and the rapid development, which has great bearing on every one that lives within the boarders of the country.

I would like to extend my appreciation to the president and the entire government of The Gambia for their job well done. May Allah put more strength in to their effort in fulfilling their dreams. May Allah guide them through the daunting challenges they face.
Thank you, Mr President for making me proud as a Gambia citizen.

Author: By Abubacarr Darbo

Bijilo Day Care Center assisted

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 08:40:17 GMT

Tuesday, January 06, 2009

Fabec’s Promotion last Friday donated educational materials to the Bijilo Day Care Center, at a ceremony held at Bijilo village, Western Region.

The educated materials included computers, books, cassettes and a printer among others. Handing over the items, Fatima Jabbie, the proprietor Fabec’s Promotion, emphasised the importance of early childhood education especially girls education. According to her, Fabec’s Promotion has been helping lots of schools in The Gambia, but believed that kids of Bijilo Day Care Center, whom she described as her neighbours, will equally need such assistance.

She then thanked President Jammeh under whose leadership, the women of this country have realised how significant they are in society. She then promised to offer more benevolent gestures in other schools. Nadie Bachono, the Face of Gambia 2008 also reiterated her priorities saying girls education is top. She implored on the school to make good use of the materials. Receiving the items, the coordinator of the school, Haddy Tambedou-Gaye, thanked Fatima Jabbie and her promotion, noting that the school was in dire need of such materials.

For his part, Ebra Faal, the councillor for Sukuta Ward revealed that government alone cannot do it all and therefore, the need for such assistance is vital. He called on other Gambians in the diaspora to emulate Fatima Jabbie and Fabec’s Promotions.

Author: by Bekai Njie

Baa Billi Mansa cultural group on stage

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 06:08:44 GMT

Tuesday, January 06, 2009

As part of relentless efforts geared towards promotion,development and preservation of the spirit of arts and culture in the country, Africa and the world at large,the Baa Billi Mansa Cultural Group is set to embark on country wide promotion and dialogue tour.

The tour which is dubed ‘Cultural,political and human development oriented tour’, is expected to be characterised by massive traditional cultural musical performances. The 15 member band traditional cultural group tour will start from Badibou in the North Bank Region (NBR) through Banjul,Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) and Western Region (WR) respectively.

In the first-ever traditional cultural nation-wide tour will hold series of meetings and dialogues with regional governors,chiefs,APRC militants among other supporters of the APRC party and to also promote the famous Baa Billi Mansa song. “The objective of the tour is meant to forster the much needed spirit of universal peace,unity,love and mutual understanding among APRC militants and the Baa Billi Mansa traditional cultural group”,said Mr Ebou Njie, manager of Alagie Njie, founder and coordinator of the Baa Billi Mansa cultural group.

The duo made these remarks in a recent chat with the Arts and Culture anchorman ahead of the some what rare cultural tour. Alagie Njie noted that,”Sikoo’ is a mandika word for the traditional cultural instrument accompanied by singing and dancing.According to him,the last time he played sikoo music was some time in 1998.The music gained momentum upon President Jammeh’s assumption of power in 1994 to date in recognition of the numerous development efforts brought in the country by the APRC party under the dynamic and visionary leadership of President Jammeh.

The cultural group head recalled a bi-election conducted some time 1998 in Badibou,which resulted in the re-establishment of the sikoo band and subsequent production of the master piece single “Baa Billi Mansa” song. The song according to him was meant to boost morals of the APRC party in the said bi-election and other related elections through out the Gambia.

The song was purposely sang in honor of the APRC party and President Jammeh he explained to the arts and culture. Alagie Njie did not hesitate to explain his traditional cultural group’s position in the promotion,development and preservation of the spirit of arts and culture in the country,Africa and the world at large.

For his part,Ebou Njie,a determined manager of the cultural group spoke about his group’s plans to have the famous Baa Billi Mansa song recorded on Cassette,CD and DVDs.This recording mechanism will help preserve,develop and promote the song for posterity.”The tour is expected to leave an indelible mark in the history of Gambian traditional cultural showbiz.”It’s all inclusive APRC party showbiz and merry making,” he said.

The duo jointly seized the opportunity to extend theirheartfelt and sincere gratitude to the Gambian leader, Professor Jammeh for receiving the professorship award and wish him together with all Gambians a happy new year. They described President Jammeh’s support to the Baa Billi Mansa Cultural group as extremely wonderful and equally thanked all those in one way or the other contributed towards the development of the group,especially the APRC militants.

Individuals such as Aji Fatou Sallah,Salifu Jaiteh,Abdou Keita Mansaring,Sheikh Omar Njie, Alagie Janneh of Njaba-Kunda were not left out on their list of appreciations. They however,called on the general public,especially President Jammeh and the APRC party militants to help in production of the Baa Billi Mansa song on Cassette,DVD and CDs.

Those interested to assist can dial either 7697644 or 7050491.

Author: By Sanna Jawara

Happy tobaski in advance

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 06:07:30 GMT

Monday, December 08, 2008

Tomorrow is Tobaski; a day when the Muslim Ummah reflects on the glorious history of Ibrahim and his loyal son, Ismail.

This is a day that Muslims the world over pray together for each other for progress, peace and prosperity, and also rejoice in sharing the bountiful blessing of Allah with love and affection.

As The Gambia joins the rest of the Muslim world tomorrow to celebrate this day, we pray that Almighty Allah continue to shower his eternal blessing and guidance on our beloved country and leadership. May we continue to live in the atmosphere of peace and unity we have come to nurture within the past decade.

We also pray that with the glory of this faithful day, may the Almighty Allah have mercy on the human race and rain His abundant blessing on our brothers and sisters the world over who are facing the bitterness of war, famine, earthquakes, terrorism, hunger, starvation and other dehumanising conditions.

This is a day the people of this world, both Muslims and non-Muslims, should forget about their differences regardless of political ideologies, race colour or sex, and come together in the spirit of oneness and forgive each other of the sins and wrongs committed in the past, and pray for better society in the interest and benefit of the human race.

As we observe this day let us not also forget our fallen colleagues who have passed onto the silent land. We should spare a moment of our time and pray for those souls which have departed before us so that they can rest in eternal peace with Allah’s mercy on them.

One more, as we observe Eidul - Fitr (Tobaski) tomorrow, the Observer wishes every body a HAPPY, HAPPY CELEBRATIONS, and many, many more returns.

Author: DO

Honour be to President Jammeh

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 12:54:07 GMT

Thursday, December 04, 2008

A tribute and words of prayer for President Jammeh
You emerge from a battle, kick out lies and let the truth prevail in The Gambia

You feel the pain and confusion that were laid on Gambians
You scrutinised and saw the reasons why Gambians were worn out

You have put on the hat of a real man and walk the life of a warrior to wipe out the tears of all Gambians.

You did not take over The Gambia because of wealth Piety, fear of Allah, that’s what we have seen in you
You took over The Gambia to get rid of corruption
Because you are older doesn’t mean that you are wiser than Yahya Jammeh

I have hope in you because you believe in Allah Akbar
You will find all the resources to develop The Gambia because you have our prayers
You’ve made both young and old proud, made the enemies of The Gambia useless

You are a good teacher and leader for you are polite
Your mother should be an emulation to all Gambian women

Leadership is not but the way you lead The Gambia
May you live long to give more to The Gambians
The smell of an essence is stronger when heated
Gambians should be aware of that and hold you with both hands consciously

Fear not for you have Allah’s blessings.
Thank you Your Excellency because the burden on you is heavy and difficult to handle

Let The Gambia be a Heaven for those who love it and Hell for its enemies

He who try to harm you will take the rap
Thank you Yahya Jammeh for going back to the land during the rainy season

You have made us all proud
You do not need a Griot because the whole world knows your prowess

May God give you long life
To the Heaven that we all aspire, May God prepare a place for you there
No country can develop without its customs

That is why you do not squander your wealth abroad but instead you use it for your people Jammeh is shining over Africa

And all the Good leaders should follow his steps.
As the old saying goes "where there’s a will there’s a way".
Don’t let your enemies distract you from your work.
Patient is always eager for a speedy recovery
Yahya has the medicine to cure the illnesses
A leader has something his followers don’t.
May Allah the Omnipotent protect you
May God protect you from your enemies
We, those who love you, pray that you always
be on the lead.

Always say Amen because the elders
are praying for you May God give you long life.
May God give you full protection. Amen!

Author: by Serign Babacarr Nyan,Coorindator of ASAFODEB,Thiés, Senegal

2008 NAYCONF D3.4M budget estimate Only D1.2M raised

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 06:47:18 GMT

Wednesday, December 03, 2008

Alieu Kebbeh, chairman of the Gambia National Youth Council who also double as the chairman of the National Organising Committee of the biennial National Youth Conference and Festival (NAYCONF) has revealed that out of the D3.4 million estimated budget for the 2008 NAYCONF scheduled to take place in North Bank Region, only a quarter of it was raised.

Mr Kebbeh made this revelation yesterday, in an interview with newsmen at the offices of the National Youth Council, Independence stadium. He called on the general stakeholders in the empowerment of young people to come out and support the youths for the success ful implementation of the event.

Pa Malick Ceesay, executive secretary of the National Youth Council said all preparations are accomplished but emphasised the financial situation of the NAYCONF as the biggest challenge, as requests tabled before to donors are not fully responsive.

He argued that those donor agencies should be at the forefront to response to the requests of the young people hence their staff are predominantly young people. He then appeal to the relevant stakeholders to come out and invest in the young people for a sustainable development, noting that they must have the mentality that NAYCONF is a national event.

Mr Ceesay then thanked President Yahya Jammeh for his visionary leadership, by providing a conducive environment for the young people of the country. He also thanked Africell, for supporting the young people.

Author: by Amadou Jallow

MDI, GIMPA hold public lecture

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 05:27:34 GMT

Monday, November 24, 2008

The Management Development Institute (MDI) in collaboration with the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) last Tuesday organized a public lecture during their public sector management training of trainers program held at the Corinthia Atlantic Hotel in Banjul.

Over 40 participants from the public and private sectors attended the lecture on “Leadership: a factor in national development.” According to Professor Stephen Adei, rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), who delivered the over 2-hour lecture, “leaders manage significant changes and paradigm shifts while managers focus on systems, efficiency, marginal changes and doing things right.”

According to the professor “leadership is cause, everything is effect.” Professor Stephen Adei thus: “The responsibility of leadership is enormous. It is however the responsibility of all, especially the middle class, academia, media, development partners, to work to increase the capacity of existing leaders and to enhance the supply and demand of quality leadership in Africa in future.

Author: by Yunus S Saliu

An exemplary leader

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 06:07:01 GMT

Friday, November 21, 2008

President Yahya Jammeh, on Wednesday 19 November 2008, received three awards in honor of his innovative approach to maintaining peace in the West Africa sub-region and the world at large.

The International Parliament for Safety and Peace (IPSP) awards are presented to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the human family. The Gambian leader’s commitment to peace cannot be overemphasized, because he has always taken a leadership position on issues pertaining to global perspectives.

It is needless to recount his dedication to serving humanity through curing people living with the HIV/AIDS virus, President Yahya Jammeh’s contributions to the planet make him a true citizen of the world.

His Excellency worked tirelessly as a facilitator of peace in the last Guinea Bissau legislative elections. The Banjul Meeting which brought together leaders of 18 political parties constituted not only an illustration of his strong leadership qualities, but his complete dedication to serve humanity.

All in all, President Jammeh deservesglobal recognition so that his work for peace can be emulated. In a world shaken by political and military conflicts, his stance exemplifies hopes and optimism about the possibility of making our world a better place to live in.

Author: DO

President Jammeh opens Commonwealth general assembly.....presents D100,000 to GNOC

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 04:53:15 GMT

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Thursday, November 20, 2008

Alhaji Dr Yahya Jammeh, the president of the Republic of the Gambia, on Tuesday officially presided over the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games Federation 2008 general assembly at the Kairaba Beach Hotel in Kololi.

The opening ceremony and state banquet, which was hosted by President Jammeh, brought together delegates from 71 Commonwealth Games associations. Speaking at the state banquet, President Jammeh welcomed Honourable Michael Fennel, the president of the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF), members of the executive board, delegates, observers and accompanying spouses to the Smiling Coast of Africa, The Gambia.

He expressed his delight with the CGF’s unanimous decision to hold the 2008 General Assembly in the Gambia, describing her as the smallest country in the Commonwealth. “Your decision to hold this important assembly on our shores lends credence to the fundamental virtues of your esteemed federation, that is destiny, humanity and equality.

Holding your assembly in one of your smallest member countries on the African continent certainly confirms your commitment to these core values and encourages us to further consolidate the bonds of friendship and mutual solidarity that binds us together as members of the Commonwealth,” Dr Jammeh observed.

The Gambia is renowned for her peacefulness. President Jammeh thus called on the delegates to take time off their schedule and utilise this golden opportunity to savour the renowned hospitality of the Gambia and Gambians during their stay in this touristic country, the homeland of Kunta Kinteh.

“My government is indeed very passionate about excellence in sports and has made a deliberate and conscious effort to mainstream sports into our national blue print for accelerated socio-economic transformation, commonly referred to as Vision 2020.

This has been further articulated in our national sports policy and plan of action with the objective of integrating sports into national development anchored on the goals of promoting decentralisation and mass participation in sports countrywide, promoting sports for the attainment and maintance of good health and as a strong tool for youth development, amongst others,” the Gambian leader disclosed.

In the quest to promote national unity and foster international understanding, President Jammeh added, the government of The Gambia is convinced that sports is the most veritable vehicle in achieving solidarity and cohesion in the world.

“As a young and vibrant nation, we in the Gambia believe in the virtues of the Commonwealth Games Federation and commend you for the significant strides you continue to make in the promotion of the Commonwealth through sports and youth development.

Your federation is a practical manifestation of the Commonwealth in motion and indeed in action as exemplified by the Commonwealth Youth Games and the Commonwealth Games that are held every four years,” President Jammeh added.

He wish them success in their deliberations and also prayed that the Commonwealth Games Federation will grow from strength to strength. President Jammeh additionally presented an amount of D100,000 to the Gambia National Olympic Committee during the state banquet. Speaking earlier, Alhagie Abou Dandeh Njie, the president of the Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC), welcomed the delegates to The Gambia.

He commended President Jammeh for promoting sports especially at the international level. According to Njie, President Jammeh’s supports cannot be overemphasised. Sheriff ML Gomez, the secretary of state for Youths and Sports, told the gathering that the Gambia is now recognised worldwide in the area of sports especially in athletics.

The youth and sports SoS disclosed that his department, in collaboration with the GNOC, has set up a mission of excellence to promote sports in The Gambia. SoS Gomez finally thanked President Jammeh for supporting Gambian sports and for putting the youths of this country in the frontline of his development agenda.

Honourable Micheal Fennes, the president of the Commonwealth Games Federation revealed that the Gambia started participating in the Commonwealth Games in 1970. He expressed delight at the warm welcome accorded to them by the Gambian authorities since their arrival.

Honourable Fennes also spoke at length on the rapid development that has been registered by President Jammeh, especially in sports, since he took over the country’s leadership. He revealed that preparations for the 2010 Commonwealth Games, to be held in New Delhi, India, are in high gear.

Hon Michael Fennis also presented gifts to president Jammeh to show his appreciation of the Gambian leader’s efforts in the promotion of national unity and development especially in the area of sports.

Author: by Assan Sallah