Dr. Manta Drammeh Tumbs Up Successful OIC Hosting

By Prof. Alhagi Manta Drammeh Despite postponing the Summit for at least on two occasions, the Gambia has finally hosted this international forum of politicians, policymakers, scholars and business community from the Muslim Ummah and other observer countries. The Gambia made it. It is historic and memorable.

As a Gambian and part of the OIC’s International Islamic Fiqh Academy delegation, I felt proud that the Gambia was able to host such a grand Summit, despite the size and resources. Many people were wondering whether it would take place or not. Finally, it happened. Others were wondering what kind of country was going to host it and what kind of treatment were they going to have.

Putting politics aside, I believe that the Gambian people and the Government should be congratulated on the successful organisation of the Summit. I think many of the delegates spoke of their satisfaction with the organisation and commended the Gambians for their hospitality and humanity. The Gambia is the Smiling Coast of Africa. That culture of hospitality has to be developed and nurtured in generations to come. One felt the sense of security from the airport to the kairaba Conference Centre and around the hotels where the delegates stayed during the Summit. One also observed the amount of training that went into creating efficient liaison and protocol officers for the Summit. I met some of my own former students who recognised me, as I taught them remotely greeting me and welcoming me. I really felt proud and satisfied to see those young men and women excel in their career trajectories.

Having said that lessons can be learnt for future conferences and Summits at different levels. More learning is needed in management and coordination. Speakers of Arabic language could be increase as they know the culture and civilisation of the Arab world. What is Next?

As the Banjul-OIC Summit ended on a peaceful note, let now look forward. The summit has put the Gambia on the world map particularly in the Arab world. Some would confuse Gambia with Zambia. Diplomatically, the Gambia can be instrumental in resolving pending issues among them the Palestinian-Israel question and the Sudanese crisis. The Gambia is known for its quiet diplomacy based on dialogue and engagement. This goes back to the era of Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawar who played a key role in binging about peace between Iraq and the Islamic Republic of Iran in 1980s.

It is a great privilege that the Gambia is assuming the chairmanship of OIC for the next three years. This means that the Gambian President would be the spokesperson of the Muslim Ummah for the next three years. Economically, the Gambia can lobby for investment projects in terms of health and agricultural. The Gambia can secure scholarships for its students from OIC member countries. In addition, the Gambia is on a good footing to seek assistance from technologically developed OIC member countries to help the Gambia develop its technological and scientific base. The Gambia could be promoted as a safe tourist destination. Finally, we urge the Government of the Gambia to seize this opportunity to build on the success of the organisation of OIC summit, despite there are lessons to be learnt for the future. This opportunity should not be politicised but all the Gambians should see themselves in it and be a part of it..

Sulayman Camara Addresses False Media Reports/Hateful Rhetorics

As the Media and Communication Secretary of the NPP, I address the recent surge of misinformation and baseless allegations circulating in various quarters regarding the performance of our esteemed Party Leader and President of the Republic, His Excellency President Barrow.

It has come to our attention that certain individuals, driven by ulterior motives and devoid of factual basis, have resorted to peddling blatant lies and engaging in idle bickering aimed at undermining the accomplishments of our government. Such attempts to discredit the successes of President Barrow and the NPP administration are not only misguided but also detrimental to the progress and stability of our nation. First and foremost, let it be unequivocally clear that the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Summit hosted by The Gambia under the leadership of President Barrow was a resounding success. Any claims suggesting otherwise are nothing more than malicious fabrications intended to sow seeds of doubt and confusion among the populace. The OIC Summit served as a platform for constructive dialogue, cooperation, and mutual understanding among member states, further solidifying The Gambia's position on the global stage.

Furthermore, attributing the increase in commodity prices to the government's negligence is not only disingenuous but also a gross misrepresentation of reality. The rise in commodity prices is a global phenomenon influenced by various factors beyond the control of any single government. It is irresponsible to assign blame where none is due and to spread falsehoods for political gain. As for those individuals who propagate hateful rhetoric calling for President Barrow to step down, let it be known that such calls will fall on deaf ears. President Barrow was duly elected by the people of The Gambia to lead our nation, and he remains steadfast in his commitment to fulfilling his mandate. He will not be swayed by the empty rhetoric of those who seek to divide our nation for their own selfish interests. In fact, President Barrow is poised to embark on an industrial tour next week, during which he will inaugurate five new hospitals in different parts of the country. Additionally, he will visit various industries across the nation, reaffirming his dedication to promoting economic development and improving the welfare of all Gambians. These tangible actions speak volumes about President Barrow's commitment to substance politics and his unwavering focus on delivering real results for the Gambian people.

In conclusion, let me reiterate that President Barrow and the NPP administration are here to stay, undeterred by the misguided attempts of detractors to derail our progress. We urge all Gambians to see through the veil of misinformation and stand united in support of our government's efforts to build a better future for our beloved nation.

Over 35 Million Dalasis Worth Of Equipments For GPF

In yet another development the Gambia Police Force gratefully received equipment and items valued at more than 35 million dalasis, donated by the German Police Support Team (GPST) in a ceremony at the Police Intervention Unit headquarters in Kanifing today

The head of the police Inspector General of Police Seedy Mukhtar Touray, upon receiving the items, expressed profound gratitude to the GPST for their steadfast support in skills transfer and logistical provisions. He highlighted the crucial role of the GPST in the transformative agenda of The Gambia Police Force, which aims to create a professional service that respects human rights and the rule of law. He assured that the donated equipment would be effectively utilized by the beneficiary units to enhance their service capabilities.

Steffen Haas, the Deputy Head of the GPST Project, provided an overview of the extensive training and logistical support the GPST has offered to the GPF over the years. He also announced an additional upcoming support of 25 million dalasis and reaffirmed the GPST's commitment to continue this beneficial collaboration.

The ceremony included the inauguration of a pavilion funded by the GPST and showcased the newly acquired items, including four Toyota minivans, three Toyota Hilux pickups, fifteen Yamaha bikes, ten Canon cameras, and various crime scene kits designated for the PIU, Mobile Traffic, HR, and Forensic Units. The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, partners, and stakeholders of the Gambia Police force were all in attendace

Pateh Jallow Appointed AIG Of Police

The fire brand police officer Pateh Jallow have been named as Assistant Inspector General of The Gambia police force. Pateh is carier police officer with high skill military background. He is fearless, honest, dedicated and service conscious officer whose loyalty is unquestionable. Pateh Jallow's appointment was relayed in a statement released by the police media and communication unit. Bellow is the full texth of the statement from the police

The Gambia Police Force has announced a significant reshuffle of its top management, effective Monday, May 13, following the retirement of former Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Landing Bojang. The reshuffle, initially disclosed on Wednesday, May 8, includes the redeployment of AIG Demba Sowe from Police Administration to Crime Management and AIG Ebrima Bah from Police Operations to Police Administration. Additionally, regional Commissioner Pateh Jallow of KM has been appointed Acting AIG of Police Operations.

This strategic realignment also encompasses various transfers among Regional Commissioners and some Unit heads, underscoring the GPF's commitment to optimizing operational effectiveness and enhancing response capabilities.

IGP Touray Handover 60 Motorcycles To Mobile Traffic

Inspector General of Police Seedy Mukhtar Touray officially handed over sixty escort motorbikes to Commissioner Lamin King Colley at the Mobile Traffic Headquarters in Kanifing on Tuesday, May 7, 2024.

These motorbikes were previously used as part of the police escorts for the recently concluded Banjul OIC Summit.

During the ceremony, IGP Touray emphasized the government's commitment to enhancing security, particularly in traffic management and reducing traffic accidents. He stated that the new motorbikes would significantly improve the Mobile Traffic Unit's responsiveness and operational efficiency.

Commissioner Colley expressed his appreciation for the support and pledged to utilize the motorbikes to ensure safer and more efficient traffic flow. The event highlighted ongoing efforts to modernize The Gambia Police Force and enhance community services.

Ambassador Lang Yabou’s Welcoming Remarks To Senior OIC Officials

Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullaahi wabarakaatuh Your Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates and Representatives of OIC Member and Observer States, Distinguished Representatives of OIC Organs, Specialized Agencies and Institutions, Representatives of The Media, Ladies and Gentlemen,

On behalf of the Government and people of The Gambia, allow me to seize this unique opportunity to warmly welcome you all to this very important Senior Officials Meeting as part of preparations for the 15th Islamic Summit Conference.

Allow me to also convey the fraternal greetings of the people of The Gambia – “The Smiling Coast of Africa” – your home away from home. This historic Summit that is being held under the theme: “Enhancing Unity and Solidarity Through Dialogue for Sustainable Development”, in Banjul, The Gambia comes at a pivotal moment for our organization. Unity, Solidarity, Dialogue and Sustainable Development should be key drivers of the Ummah’s development agenda.

As experts and senior officials, our deliberations and contributions to the outcome document are very critical to the success of the Summit. During our meetings and interactions in these two days, we shall be assisted by our colleagues from the OIC General Secretariat, particularly the experts from the Legal Department, on substantive matters that have legal implications to enable us to make informed decisions on the various agenda items before us.

Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Following the adoption of our draft agenda and work programme, we are expected to engage in a general discussion session that would begin today and hopefully continue tomorrow, In’cha Allah. With your kind indulgence and cooperation, it is our intention to grant each delegation the floor to make interventions during the discussions regarding various items on the agenda. Colleagues and friends, it is important to point out that, when we discuss the draft communique and the other outcome documents of our meeting, we must bear in mind what is at stake i.e the huge mutual and shared challenges facing the Ummah and our collective responsibility to find solutions.

Today, the Ummah is witnessing challenges of unprecedented proportions affecting our citizens that we cannot continue to ignore. It’s time for decisive, bold and holistic actions that are informed by humanitarian, developmental and diplomatic dimensions in our search for effective and durable solutions to our shared challenges. We are meeting at a time when the larger international community, especially members of the ummah, are going through unprecedented conflicts and geopolitical tensions that require our urgent attention. Violent extremism, terrorism and genocidal actions have become normalized in certain parts of our world. As experts who are trusted by our leaders and people and, assigned the responsibility of charting an acceptable outcome for the Summit, we must do so, with only noble objectives in mind, i.e the absolute imperative of ensuring peace, security, stability and development for humanity, especially the unprivileged communities of the ummah. The time for action is now. We need increased solidarity, cooperation and coordination of efforts while building mutual trust between and among ourselves as brothers and sisters facing similar challenges and issues. Matters of mutual concern and interest should be addressed through solidarity, dialogue and compassion. These are values that are Islamic, enduring and universal. Excellencies, dear colleagues, As senior officials and experts, we are obliged to give our leaders and people a good outcome that will guide both the Ministerial Meeting and the Summit Conference. We must do so by always reminding ourselves that the threats and challenges facing us can only be tackled through greater unity, renewed solidarity and by working together harmoniously through dialogue as encapsulated in the theme of the 15th Islamic Summit.

Dear Friends, I look forward to your frank and fruitful deliberations that would enrich the final Summit documents in a spirit of cordiality and an atmosphere of camaraderie, friendship and solidarity. You are once again welcome, and from the deep depths of our hearts, we thank you for coming to the Smiling Coast of Africa to attend the 15th OIC Islamic Summit Conference. On behalf of His Excellency the President and the entire nation, I seize this opportunity to thank you for supporting our efforts in hosting the Summit.

By trusting us with the chairmanship of this noble and great organization we assure you that we will not disappoint you. We look forward to working closely with all of you in the service of the ummah and the larger international community during our chairmanship. We will continue to rely on your support and cooperation at all times. Thank you for your kind attention. #OBS24 #OICBanjulSummit #Diplomacy

President Barrow Decorates Ten Military Colonels

As Commander in Chief of The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF), President Adama Barrow, on Tuesday, decorated ten senior officers to the rank of Colonel. The ceremony signifies the enormous respect the President has for members of the Armed Forces, who have made colossal contributions to making the nation's security their top priority in life.

President Barrow encouraged the newly promoted officers to explore further innovative ways of rebranding the image of GAF, "as a noble national defence institution, using emerging technologies to your advantage.' This is in line with the Security Sector Reform and the NDP Yiriwa agenda

Speaking on their behalf after administering six oaths , the Director of the Medical Service of GAF, Colonel Musa Kah, expressed gratitude and reassured their loyalty and readiness to serve the country.

The state decorations were awarded to service members who are deserving in character and have demonstrated patriotism, dedication and commitment to duty.

2 Lieutenants Completed Commando Training In India

Lieutenant Abdou Majid Jallow and Lieutenant Alieu Gassama have successfully completed an intensive Commando training course from the Junior Leaders Wing Infantry School in India. The training which is conducted by the Indian Army Commando School, Belgaum is designed to train military officers and equip them with professional skills to conduct complex military operations beyond enemy lines.

The course brought together different participants across the globe and lasted for several weeks with physically demanding and rigorous training. The course highlights included, among other modules, Helicopter-borne Insertion, Unarmed Combat tactics, Day and Night Navigation and other intense exercises.

The participants from the Gambia Armed Forces were recognized for their outstanding commitment and performance and were presented with the Ultimate Award.

GAMTEL MD Tunkara Reassured Effective Service Delivery

On the event marking the International Labour Day the managing director of Gambia Telecommunication Company (GAMTEL) Lamin A Tunkara reassures his commitment to promoting staff welfare and service delivery. Mr. Tunkara who is known as action oriented and service minded man reafirmed his company's readiness in providing sustainsble communication delivery to their esteem customers.

The managing director of Gamtel Mr Lamin tunkara, thank his staff for their dedication and commitment to national duty .

Mr. tunkara takes this opportunity on workers' day , highlights the tremendous efforts of his working staff, and extended his message to those departed individuals who contributed immensely to Gamtel successes .

on the OIC submit director tunkara lamented on Gamtel's readiness in providing effective , stable, and fast Internet connection during the Summit.

The Gambia Welcomes OIC Delegates

The OIC Senior officials meeting Commenced yesterday with the meeting formally opened by Amb Permanent Secretary 1 Mr Lang Yabou of MOFA. He welcomed the delegates and senior technical officials from all the OIC countries. They will work on the summit documents and communique before the Foreign Ministers meeting in a few days time.

The Gambia will be the focal country for the 57 Islamic member states. His Excellency President Adama Barrow will be Chairman for the Heads of Governments, Ambassador Mr Lamin Dibba, The Gambia PR in New York will equally be a Chair for OIC Ambassadors at the U.N and Ambassador Prof. Kah in Geneva will equally Chair the OIC Ambassadors in Geneva.

Diplomatically, the Gambia will be a significant player in the global stage. The conflicts in the world, with polarisation and geopolitical power dynamics means, more dialogue and cooperation. The people of the world need peace and security.