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Gambia berth place in African U-17 finals

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 04:30:29 GMT

Monday, November 24, 2008

The Gambia Under 17 team will make their second appearance in the African Under 17 Championship finals in four years, after a 2-0 victory over Ghana Black Starlets on Saturday, at the Independence Stadium, Bakau.

Two second-half goals from Omar Colley and Alasana Camara were enough for the Baby Scorpions to cruise to next year’s final on an away goal rule, and in effect avenge the painful loss suffered by their seniors, to their Ghanaian counterparts for the African Youth Championship.

The Gambians, who lost woefully in the first leg match played in Kumasi two weeks back, entered the game completely written off, as was evident in the scanty home crowd that turned up to cheer a team that needed a miracle to qualify.

And more doubts were cast on Baby Scorpion’s future when they failed to jell into a team in the first interval that was unarguably dominated by the visitors who were also sitting on a 3-1 first leg win.

Fresh from break, the Gambians came out strongly as they attacked from all angles with their game plan frustrating the defence of the Ghanians.
The improved second half performance paid dividends as early as 58th minute when Wallidan’s Omar Colley slotted in the opener to the bewilderment of the Ghanaians. Elephant striker Alasana Camara’s header three minutes later sent the home crowd to a wild celebration.

The Ghanaians fought hard to find the equaliser but the defence of the Gambians refused to bulge as their attack continued to probe for an equaliser.
The Gambia will now join the host Algeria (who berthed automatic place as host) and six other nations for the championship proper scheduled between March 19 and April 3, 2009.

The Algiers finals will also serve as qualifiers for the FIFA Under 17 World Cup finals scheduled to take place in Nigeria later in the same year.

Author: by Nanama Keita

Remembrance Day observed

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 09:58:11 GMT

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Remembrance Day was last Sunday, and it was celebrated in The Gambia and all across the Commonwealth countries.

The Ceremony which was held in remembrance of millions who died in the First World War, was marked by a two-minute silence. The Ceremony was observed at the July 22nd Square in Banjul where the vice-president, Aja Dr Isatou Njie-Saidy, top officials, religious leaders, service men and a cross section of the public gathered to commemorate the event.

The event was celebrated by a match parade of the ex-servicemen, boy scouts, girl guides, red cross volunteers and guard of honour marched in procession.
The laying of wreaths was done successively by H.E Dr Aja Isatou Njie-Saidy; Chairman of Gambia Legion; Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Lang Tombong Tamba; the Inspector General of the Police, Ensa Badjie.

Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, the Lord Mayor of Banjul, British High Commissioner, who laid it on behalf of the Commonwealth.

The tradition was also followed by the Dean of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps, Mr Carlos Salsamendi,the Cuban Ambassador to The Gambia, laid it on behalf of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps and the Red Cross Society . After the ceremony the vice president met Ex-servicemen.

Author: by Mariatou Ngum-Saidy

Double Celebration

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 04:01:31 GMT

Thursday, November 06, 2008

Thisis a joyous moment for us for two reasons. First, we are glad that our projection many months ago that Barack Obama would be the first black president of

America

has been fulfilled. Then we argued that Obama’s charisma and innate ability to connect easily with people would earn him the presidency. Second, we are also pleased that the Westfield-Sukuta Road is about to be rehabilitated. We have written on the state of that road many times so much so that it even became monotonous. Just when we were about to despair, the good news came that the Islamic Development Bank and the Government of The Gambia are bankrolling the reconstruction of the road.

We are not about to reiterate the economic importance of that road; we are not about to repeat why it should be reconstructed. Those points are clear enough to everybody.

What we are concerned with now is how soon the road will be done. We are also concerned with how well it will be done. We have seen roads rehabilitated only to go bad in less than a year. This is not good for us as a people. If we have anything to do, we should do it so well for it to last. GAMWORKS should make sure that the Westfield-Sukuta road is built to the highest standard possible.

Evidently, money is not the problem. So much money has been earmarked for the project. There is no reason therefore why an excellent job cannot be done. We will hold GAMWORKS to account if the contractors, COPRI a Kuwati construction firm, fail to give us a first-class road.

Doing things shoddily only to have them done again is a waste of scare resources. We have to imbibe the habit of getting it right once and for all.

JAMMEH HAILS GALLANT SCORPIONS BRAVERY

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 11:49:44 GMT

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Tuesday, October 14, 2008

The Gambian leader, President Alhaji Dr Yahya Jammeh, last night, hosted a grand celebration in honour of the gallant Scorpions, at the July 22 Square in Banjul, to show his appreciation of their brave performance against the Senegalese Lions of Teranga, last Saturday.

The Gambia had travelled to the neighbouring country almost completely written off, but the Scorpions came from behind to settle for a historic 1-1 draw, at the Leopold Sedat Senghore Stadium - a result that sent the 2002 World Cup finalists packing.

The fact that it was the visiting Gambia who dictated the pace of the game particularly thrilled the sports-loving president, who has always supported all categories of the national teams.

Addressing thousands of jubilant fans at the Square, last night, the President Jammeh, on behalf of the government and the people of The Gambia, thanked the Almighty Allah for the success. He also thanked the players, officials, GFA and "all those who have supported the team all the way".

President Jammeh reiterated his unflinching support for the team, noting that he is always proud to be associated with the Scorpions whom he described as great sons of the nation.

He said: "All genuine Gambians call the Scorpions the Darling Scorpions, but those who do not wish this country well call them Yahya Jammeh’s sons. But I am proud to be a father of children that bring pride, dignity and joy to the country."

One Mr Abubacarr Jawara, a Gambian living in China, used the occasion to present a cheque for D450,000 (four hundred and fifty thousand dalasis) to The Gambia Football Association, as a sign of his appreciation for the Scorpions’ impressive display in Dakar. The president described Mr Jawara’s move as "a true Gambian spirit", thanking him on behalf of the GFA for the wonderful generosity he has exhibited. He noted that such is what is expected of a true Gambian.

"The average Gambian shares whatever he or she has, and you have shown that spirit; I thank you for your gesture," Jammeh told a visibly elated Jawara.

Coming back to the match, President Jammeh thanked the Scorpions, saying that The Gambia has come a very long way.

He said for the first time he had listened to Senegalese commentary when Gambia and Senegal were playing a football match. He told his audience that he had always listened quarter way, before tuning off, as some of their comments had always been unpalatable.

He added: "But this time I went to Kanilai. We did not tune to GRTS, we tuned to RTS, and I told the soldiers to sit and watch the match. From the first minute that the match started, I could hear nothing but that the Gambian team are dangerous, they mean business, they are determined, don’t underrate them, this is one of the best teams.

Even when we scored ourselves, they said yes but this is not the end because up to the last minute this Gambian team can be dangerous. You will all agree with me that in the first half if you heard any noise in the stadium, it was from the Gambian fans. The stadium only came to light when we scored ourselves.

All those who watched the game would have realised a big difference because each time we played Senegal, if Senegal first scored, our team became numb and dead.

But this time around, it was like slapping a lion on the face."

As the supreme coach, the President thanked the team and further advised them that "whatever you are doing, follow my instructions to the letter and you will never come back defeated. I told you this before and if you follow my instructions to the letter, by the grace of the Almighty Allah, we will always shine. You have seen how our last two matches have ended."

"This match was very significant because both sides were prepared and on the other side, some of their players were saying that if they were beaten by The Gambia, they would stop playing football. They better stop playing football!" he said.

"Nothing is sweeter than to come to your house and allow you to beat me first and then I beat you before I leave," the president told the crowd.

President Jammeh said people would be asking why Gambians were celebrating since it was not clear whether they were going or not. But, he said, "It is not that. For more than 46 years today, we have never beaten Senegal in Senegal. Today if you have broken that spell forever we should celebrate. The Scorpions have made us proud."

Jammeh added: "Before the match, I was wondering about Ous Jallow and Njogu Demba because their names were taken to a special place that I know. You were wondering why Ous and Njogu did not score. I know it but I won’t go into details. The coach was very intelligent in changing Njogu. I was wondering about their safety than their scoring."

President Jammeh concluded by justifying his decision of going to Kanilai over the weekend, saying: "I want to tell Gambians that I go to Kanilai for different reasons. If the Scorpions are going to play and I go to Kanilai, don’t interpret that action by thinking that I am going to Kanilai because they will not win. I go to Kanilai for different reasons." he stressed.

The President also assured the Scorpions and their faithful fans that Belgian coach, Paul Put, will be retained, no matter what it takes.

"I want to assure the Scorpions and all Gambians that as far as I and my government are concerned, we are going to retain both the coach and the trainers, whatever it takes. Even if there is no sponsor, I am going to pay for their salaries as long as they wish to stay," President Jammeh revealed.

In conclusion, the President said he had a surprise package for the Scorpions, which he said would be known by next week. "You have made history, and come next week, I will also make history," Jammeh concluded.

Yesterday’s gathering, which was attended by the players and officials of The Gambia Football Association, was also graced by the vice president and secretary of state for Women’s Affairs, Aja Isatou Njie-Saidy, secretaries of state, and service chiefs, among other dignitaries.

Author: by Nanama Keita

Nigerians in Brikama Celebrate 48th Independence

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 05:34:42 GMT

Wednesday, October 08, 2008

Nigerians in Western Region on Saturday 4thOctober 2008 converged at Brikama to celebrate their country’s 48thIndependence anniversary.

The celebration took the form of a march-pass from the Brikama Market to Brikama Methodist Mission church where a symposium was held.

Speaking on the occasion, the Governor of Western Region, Mr. Lamin Sanneh said that Nigeria and the Gambia shared a lot in common.

Governor Sanneh added that both The Gambia and Nigeria are members of ECOWAS, African Union, United Nations and Commonwealth. He expressed optimism that the relationship between Nigeria and the Gambia will grow from strength to strength.

Mr. Sanneh urged the Nigerian community in Western Region to be law abiding and always support each other.

The ceremony was graced by the head chief of Kombo Central, Dembo Santang Bojang and other dignitaries.

Author: Lamin Darboe

Can Veterans Help Gambian Football?

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 07:07:15 GMT

Wednesday, September 03, 2008

The report that the Gambian Veteran footballers surpassed their Senegalese rivals in their return match in Dakar brings further cause for celebration following the Under-17 weekend victory over Sierra Leone.

It is very encouraging to say the least, that veterans of the national team are bringing more fire to the rebirth of football prowess and enthusiasm in this country.

According to Team Manager, Baboucar Joof, the match was exciting with discipline and fine sportsmanship on each side. “The team mounted a good series of attacks,” he explained, “but the Senegalese goalie was really too good.” He went further to explain that the agility and competence of the opposing goalie did cause some frustration, and kept the team from scoring three or even four goals in the first 80 minutes of the match and it was not till that time that only one goal was finally registered.”

Manager Joof expressed happiness that the team finally however got the winning goal, thanks to a determined combined attack from Ebou Debuwa and Baboucarr Sowe alias “Laos”.

In giving the background to the event, a spokesman of the Veterans organization indicated that the main objective of the trip was to undertake a joint effort with Senegalese counterparts to start preaching the historical unity and familial relations of our two countries. This is important, it is claimed, in light especially of the impending big match between the Gambian Scorpions and the Senegalese Lions to take place in Dakar on 11th October only four weeks and some days ahead.

It would be recalled that some problems arose in Dakar in 2003 during the World Cup/ African Cup qualifiers of that year, leading to serious fighting and throwing of stones between fans of both sides. The spectacle was indeed ugly and was condemned by all football authorities and people of good sense. Why should two countries of the same ancestry start inflicting serious injuries on each other because of a football match, however important?!

This is considered illogical also as sports is supposed to join people and not divide them.

It is hoped therefore that the joint effort of the Veterans yields the best results, coming from personalities who are well known and respected in football.

Furthermore, steps should be taken by all authorities concerned to prevent any ugly scenes now or any time in the future. It should be also remembered that there were faults on both sides, and so the matter should be addressed comprehensively at both national levels.

Collaboration between Gambian and Senegalese State and football authorities should be strengthened and maintained throughout the period of the games. Security arrangements should be stepped up.

Importantly the public should be adequately sensitized to respect crowd control and give all cooperation for a successful and trouble-free event. We have also been informed that Gambian football super-star, Alhagi Njie “Biri” was honoured by the Senegalese Veterans association. This calls to mind that it would be praiseworthy if a fitting honour could be given to Biri by the Gambian football authorities and fans. The ‘old hands’ should also try to assist football and young football players in this country.

Lastly, we wish that the Veterans programme grows from strength to strength and spreads as a sub-regional event.

We hope also that the ‘old legs’ can keep up the pressure. Good Luck and Congratulations!

BRIDE OF THE WEEK

Sun, 24 Aug 2008 09:39:33 GMT

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Fatoumatta Trawally - Drammeh

Wishing you a happy marriage.

Author: DO

Brikama nawettan update

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 06:27:26 GMT

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

After Friday’s Super Cup final which saw Daru Gift thrash Berewuleng in a post-match spot-kick to lift the title, the Brikama nawettan proper started on Saturday with Nema United locking horns with Super Eagles on a waterlogged pitch.

After a goalless scoreline in the first 45 minutes, the game was discontinued as the ball became a canoe on the Canaan river.

On Sunday, ten-man Africell Kitty came from behind to hold Real Sira’s to a 1-1 draw. Real Sira’s, who fielded in first and second division players like Real de Banjul’s duo Muhamed Konateh and Abdourahman Conateh and Brikama United’s Malang Ida Bojang as opposed to the youthful but fancied Africell Kitty side, registered their firstgoal just 15 minutes into the game when Ba Saikou Jawneh’s right-footed cross found team-mate Musa Colley on the right spot and he tapped in the opener.

Real Sira’s fans invaded the pitch in jubilation urging the village boys of Africell Kitty to look for a better network or learn how to play against elderly and more seasoned players.

Minutes after Real Sira’s unabated celebration the whole pitch came to a standstill with Africell Kitty’s Lamin Touray’s 24 minute bolt which took the score to 1-1.

No more goals were to be seen but Real Sira’s Abdourahman Conateh, Muhamed Konteh and Malang Ida Bojang continued to impress with the later’s 75th minute move making Kitty fans and officials nervous.

The village boys of Kitty were happy to go home with a point against a side composed of former national team players as opposed to their youthful side of teenagers.

Meanwhile matches will resume today when Orlando meet Shell whilst Kassa Kunda lock horns with Jarju’s FC on Wednesday.

Author: by Bezenty Gomez

Spice in Town for Weekend Celebration

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 05:39:33 GMT

Thursday, August 14, 2008

The Jamaican reggae celebrity, Richey Spice has arrived in the country to perform a weekend celebration of music.

He will be performing live at the Independence Stadium on Saturday.

Spice is well loved by many across the world for a number of reasons among them his sonorous voice, insightful and inspiring lyrics and activism.

He is also well known for his latest single which includes the line, “as a man you must always be solid as a rock, never ever say no. Keep the fire burning.”

According to reports reaching The Point, the spectacular reggae night will commence at 9 p.m. to be attended reggae lovers from all over the country. Those in attendance are promised a feast of music and dance.

This paper was informed that under the stewardship of Olimatta Taal all protocols to stage groundbreaking gigs featuring the Jamaican reggae artist have been met. Spice, alongside his internationally renowned band, is ready to go.

Author: By Njie Baldeh

NAPSA celebrates 7th anniversary

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 03:09:15 GMT

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

The National Patriotic Students’ Association (NAPSA), on Sunday, commemorated its seventh anniversary. The celebration began with a march pass from Westfield to Nusrat Senior Secondary School in Bundung, where speeches were made, as part of activities marking the seventh anniversary celebration.

In his welcoming remarks, Modou Alieu Jallow, chairperson of NAPSA, said, every Gambian should work hard towards achieving our national goals, despite the size of our country.

“With determination and hard work, we can transform The Gambia into the silicon valley of Africa, as is always said by the President of the Republic Alh. Dr Yahya Jammeh.We should all come together despite our political differences to develop our country”, Mr Jallow told the gathering.

He reminded the students to rally behind president Jammeh and his government, for making education accessible to every Gambian as well as offering free education for girls, amongst others issues. He further revealed that NAPSA has recently concluded a nationwide tour of schools which was geared towards encouraging students to venture in farming activities during the rainy season,so as to help their parents, as well as to respond to the president’s back to the land call.

He highlighted some of the major achievements registered by NAPSA since he took over power as chairperson of the association and called on the students to maintain high sense of discipline.

For his part, Hon Seedy Njie, nominated National Assembly Member, who also doubles as the deputy national coordinator of NAPSA, recalled that the students’ association was formed exactly on this day ,seven years ago, by some patriotic students and personalities in the country. He added that since its establishment, NAPSA has registered landmark achievements in the country’s development objectives.

“As we celebrate this day, we cannot afford to forget our partners, prominent among them, His Excellency Dr Alh.Yahya A.J.J Jammeh.We say a big thank you to the President for the support he has been rendering to NAPSA since its inception. NAPSA have nothing to give back to President Jammeh except love, loyalty and continuous dedication to his government and the ideals of July 22nd revolution”, Hon. Njie noted.

“The mission of NAPSA as an association is to partaner with government in national development. As patriots, we should all work hard towards achieving our country’s national goals. I therfore urged all the youths of this country to stop sitting in their vous and camps and work hard to make The Gambia the silicon valley of Africa”, The Gambia’s youngest parliamentarian told the students’ association.

Alieu Jammeh, deputy permanent secretary at the Department of State for Youths and Sports, said; “The attitude disposition capacity and necessary skills of young men and women of any social set-up, will determine the character of that society for the present and the future”.

“It is natural that the young will succeed the elderly to continue the process of evolution. The youth should therefore be prepared and be assisted on the road to assuming the mantle of responsibility and leadership. Let me emphasize that education, health, agriculture, business, skills development and other development related issues, are available in abundance for any young man or woman who want to venture into any of the above mentioned sectors”, DPS Jammeh remarked. He called on the students to change their behaviours and work hard for the development of our country.

The anniversary celebration was graced by senior officials of the department of state for Basic and Secondary Education, Foreign Dipolmats, students, Army Band and others.

Author: by Assan Sallah & Omar Wally