Gambians Mobilise Against ‘Auction Of African Migrants’ In Libya

(JollofNews) – Gambians have taken to the streets on Saturday to denounce the ongoing slavery in the Northern African country of Libya. Protesters, who gathered at Palma Rima Junction, marched towards the Gambia-based

African Center for Democracy and Human Rights Studies (ACDHRS), located along the Kombo Coastal road in Kololi, some 9 km away from Banjul.

The crowd loudly chanted “Don’t kill Blacks! Don’t sell Blacks!” as they descended on the Kombo Coastal Road, demanding Afrcan governments and the international community to put an end to what appears to be modern-day slavery.

Anna Oliver, one of the initiators of the protest march, called on Gambian authorities to sever diplomatic ties with Libya if the country continues to defy the world in allowing the perpetuation of ‘slave trade’. She said slavery is unacceptable in the 21st century and the international community should act on Libya without taking any action.

The just concluded African- EU Summit held in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, discussed the issue of the migration crisis and participants committed to addressing the problem. Hopes are high to see their resolve

translated into concrete actions.

Gambian rapper, activist Ali Cham aka Killa Ace blamed African governments for failing to provide job opportunities for the youths. He said they are partly responsible for slavery in Libya. Killa Ace accused the Jammeh regime of having ‘forced’ many young Gambians to opt of chasing their dreams in Europe by embarking on the dangerous journey through the Sahara desert. “To get a job, you need to be part of the Green Youths,”  he recalled.

Former Gambian official Momodou Sabally went tough on Libyan authorities, and called on Gambia govt to take a strong stance on a subject that continues to generate headelines and raise serious concerns. He decried the resounding silence of the Islamic Ummah, describing what is taking in the chaotic Northern country as un-islamic.

Between 4000 to 5000 Gambians are still trapped in Libyan camps where they face the risk of being sold as ‘slaves’ by their jailors. The government of President Adama Barrow has expressed its resolve to work

with the International Organisation (IOM) and other partners to fast-track their repatriation.