Kerr Fatou and its stringer Mustapha Darboe have reported that the Ministry of Agriculture has sold thousands of bags of fertilizer in both the Gambia and Senegal which would amount to millions of dalasi. These bags of fertilizer are said to have been bought since 2009 at a cost of over 130 million dalasi only to be found to be expired and spoilt. Yet the current leaders in the Ministry decided to work with businessmen to sell off the spoilt fertilizer which will undoubtedly pose a direct threat to crops and the health of people.
The most amazing part of the story is that the Office of the President was indeed aware of this alleged scandal yet since August 2017 the presidency did not take any decisive action on it even when it was reported that the Ministry of Justice did an investigation. Where is that investigation report and why was there no action on it?
It is also interesting to learn from Kerr Fatou that the NEA had in fact advised, way back in 2014 that the fertilizer be sent to Dakar to be tested in order to determine the best way to dispose it off. Yet this advice was also never carried out.
What this story indicates is that there has been a very longstanding culture of corruption within the Ministry of Agriculture. This particular case began in 2009 when the fertilizer was bought and discovered to be spoilt.
In 2014 the NEA advised that proper tests are conducted to determine the appropriate means of disposal.
In July 2017 the Minister of Agriculture contacted a businessman to dispose off of the fertilizer only for the fertilizer to find its way into markets in the Gambia and Senegal. In August 2017 the Ministry of Justice conducted an investigation apparently at the advice of the Office of the President.
Further investigations were conducted by the NIA and the intelligence unit at State House. Yet neither the President nor any agency of the State had taken this matter to where it should go. Until now no public officer has been prosecuted for the allegations.
All eyes must now focus on Pres. Adama Barrow and Minister of Agriculture Omar Jallow to take a decisive and swift action. Clearly this case highlights abuse of office and negligence of duty by public officers leading to the defrauding of the state and causing economic loss to the Gambia.
Furthermore by making such huge quantity of fertilizer unavailable to our farmers means a threat to food security in the Gambia. At the same time by seeking to sell expired fertilizer to our farmers means a further threat to lives and livelihoods.
For that matter, the President and his Minister must be held to account to explain to Gambians how such massive act of corruption and abuse of office could take place especially in this new dispensation when we thought business will be different in our public institutions.
While the President and the Minister must come out to publicly address this matter, it must also be highlighted that the National Assembly must institute an enquiry on this issue forthwith. We need to know who were the ministers and officials in 2009 and 2014 in that Ministry and what did they do or failed to do to address this matter. This is a legitimate matter of national interest for which the National Assembly must take leadership.
Kerr Fatou must be commended for this story as it highlights the role and contribution of the media to the promotion of good governance in the country. It reminds us of a similar story in 1988 when a popular newspaper, The Torch published an article, ‘Cabinet Reshuffle Inevitable’ in which the author Sanna (Tiks) Manneh openly accused four government ministers of corruption and suggested that they be sacked.
Three of the ministers – Saihou Sabally Minister of Agriculture was accused of dubious rice dealings with the General Manager of the GCU, Landing Jallow Sonko Minister of Local Government and Lands was accused of guilt by association with corrupt friends and Dr. Lamin Saho Minister of Information and Tourism was accused of converting donated buses from Germany to his personal use, as well as forcing the Director of Medical and Health to purchase a package of donated drugs from Germany and then pocketing the money. The accused ministers naturally took the matter to court and Sanna Manneh was charged with libel.
Following a court case from November 1988 to April 1989, Tiks was acquitted on the first and third counts and cautioned and discharged on the second. While The Torch newspaper did not eventually survive the financial costs of the trial as it closed down a year later, however their stand demonstrated the role and contribution of the media in the fight against corruption by exposing and holding the government to account.
For that matter all citizens must commend Kerr Fatou and Mustapha Darboe for playing what we expect the media to play especially in this new political dispensation. Democracy in the Gambia cannot be built without active participation of the media.
For the Gambia Our Homeland.
Madi Jobarteh,
STOP the dilly-dally, Madi! The man, Omar Jallow-OJ, should be immediately dismissed. There is ample evidence from the Gambian and Senegalese business dealers that Omar Jallow, the Minister, instructed them to load trucks and sell the out-dated/expired fertilizers in Senegal not in the Gambia.
What is the HOPELESS, INDECISIVE, ILLITERATE Adama Barrow waiting for to remove this CORRUPT, CORRUPTIBLE, WOMANIZER IDIOT from one of our most important positions? A position that holds the nucleus of our national development and progress!
The same excuses and dilly-dally behaviour of waiting for findings, findings that were found months ago. So what LIES is Amie Bojang telling the Gambian people? Or what LIES is Tambedou telling the Gambian people? What more investigations, after investigations conducted and concluded months ago incriminated the Minister of Agriculture for instructing his buddy S/Kunda market businessman to sell the fertilizers.
Omar Jallow was in this position before and what did he do to improve the lives of our poor people, other than continuously travel to Brussels/Rotterdam on government money, buy Mercedez Benzes for himself and all members of family, buddies and just womanise!
What happened to the Musa Suso case when he was appointed Youth Adviser to the President? We all unequivocally denounced that idiotic appointment on the grounds of national interest. Musa was prosecuted and jailed for drug related dealings. He was subsequently relieved. Such “dirty” characters should never hold high public office in our country. We are beyond that era of STUPIDITIES and INFANTILE politics. Politics of PATRONAGE and INFLUENCE-PEDDLING.
What are Dr Isatou Sarr, Lamin, Luntango, Dida, Andy Pjalo, Bax, Grim Reaper, Bax……..waiting for to give opinion?
Bajaw gave a brilliant and genuine opinion. I praise him for that. But equally, I don’t share his opinion on the political tone. The Minister of Agriculture SHOULD be witched-hunted until ousted. YES, OF COURSE. That’s the only way we can get rid of political leverage and keep the trend of eradicating CORRUPTION and CORRUPTIBLE practices in our society especially in public offices.
Not only the press should take the bull by the horns. Our learned and well-informed ought to lead the fight against CORRUPTION and CORRUPTIBLE PRACTICES, that are gradually and daily recovering/gaining momentum in the Gambia today.
Just an anecdote: I was listening to news on one of the Belgian channels and learnt about the fulminant dismissal of the Spanish minister of culture just 6 days into office. It was discovered that he failed to properly/candidly declare his assets/income in 2014-2017 fiscal years, thus incurring a heavy fine from the Spain’s Treasury Department in the tune of some 200,000 euros. When discovered yesterday, he was immediately dismissed by the new Spanish Prime Minister. We can give evidences of “cleaning” the society in Europe, examples we should learn to adopt in order to salvage our country from our decaying civil servants and notorious criminals in public office.
Saw the story on KERR FATOU Babu. Great journalism by MK Darboe. But we have NOT heard from OJ himself. However strong the charges may sound, due process entails that OJ’s side must be heard before judgement is passed. That is the Ethiopian GADA SYSTEM.
Babu Soli
It is baffling to hear such statements from someone who stood by Jammeh for more than 22 years when everything you are preaching against was taking root, being consolidated, encouraged and finely oiled. What a sudden change of heart Babu, from a die hard supporter of an unimaginable corruption and corruptible practices to a crusader against corruption, or just a crusader against those you perceived opponents or enemies. Sometimes i wonder if the Babu Soli of this esteemed paper is not actually the despot squatting in Equatorial Guinea. It doesn’t take you long to divulge on the dismissal of a Spanish minister while these readership are still waiting for your comments on the ugly revelations from the Janneh commission, the inhumane treatment meted out to the victims of Yankuba Badgie and co., the cold blooded killing of Solo Sandeng and others.
You are complimentary of Bajaw because of his criticism of Barrow’s government and sooner he utter a word of contempt against Jammeh, will surely comes Babu’s scorn. Your game is up Babu. Gambians can’t be fooled any more.
Babu,
Unlike you, I will condemn any instances of corruption, mismanagement and misconduct in Public Office, regardless of the identity of the perpetrator(s). This fertiliser scandal seems to be still unfolding andas my in law suggested, let’s wait for the details to determine the facts.
It is obvious that officials within the Ministry of Agriculture, at least, have engaged in conduct that is not only inappropriate, but could endanger lives and harm the environment, by putting expired fertiliser in the market. This cannot be swept under the carpet and OJ, as Minister of Agriculture, has a degree of responsibility for what goes on in his Ministry and it is in his best interest that he speaks now.
However, I want to draw your attention to something, in case you missed it.
Quote @ Madi: “These bags of fertilizer are said to have been bought since 2009 at a cost of over 130 million dalasi only to be found to be expired and spoilt.”
We wouldn’t have had this problem, if Yaya Jammeh’s regime did not waste D130 million on expired fertiliser. May be, that’s where our anger should be directed first.
Babu Solo, Jollofnews 2018
Why do I have to waste my time on somebody who cannot read simple literature, who cannot discern the contents of simple scribblings? What have I written about my position on the whole President Jammeh argument over the last 22 years? You have never been a keen reader nor do you note arguments. So, it’s pointless arguing with you. Read my past arguments and see where I postulate. It’s up to you.
In any form and manner, I’ll continue to speak out LOUD about any nasty and CORRUPT injerencies in this VERY BAD administration, an administration that came on the LOUD TONE of REDEEMING our country from “INJUSTICES”, only to be seen entrenching the sword and shield of INJUSTICE.
The President Jammeh argument as a means of disgressing from the unfortunate realities in our country is not holding up any longer with our selfless learned and patriotic citizens. You may be absent from that grouping!!!!
Speak to me about the composition of a CLEAN and UNREFUTABLE membership of a tangible Commission, NOT the present Janneh commission whose members have the bleakest past in our economic and social activities.
Luntango,
The Gambian people, Luntango and Babu haven’t heard from OJ himself. That’s the obscurantist politics in the Gambia. SILENCE, complete SILENCE to dilute/shed off tensions/emotions.
But within the corridors of State House, the information/investigation report about OJ’s CORRUPT practice on the expired fertilizers were tended months ago. Barrow knows it. Tambedou knows it, as well.
Indeed Babu, as with the GADA rule now stolen and adopted by the British courts, complete refusal to speak will count against OJ with both the judge and the jury. But we must offer him a chance to speak.
Off topic
Bax, and anyone else interested.
The aims of the foundation.
1. Educate.
Maths.
Black history.
Economics.
Health.
2. Enterprise.
Farming (min 3 hectors.
Small process plant (for starters, then escalate).
Incubator for small to medium business start-ups in The Gambia.
Platform for the business to operate?
We would apply for a radio license in The Gambia.
Purpose for the radio station.
1. Market awareness.
2. Offerings (products).
3. Income (advertising).
The radio station would be 60% business 40% music.
100% free of politics and religion.
What are your thoughts, suggestions or questions?
In-depth details and road map will be given once we move onto a private channel of communication.
Sounds very good. I’m in too.
My interest include:
1. Skilled trade under education and
2. Micro finance directed at Women and Commercial Fishing under enterprise.
3. Will include welfare and social services to include food, temporary shelter and widows stipend, to protect our women and children.
4. Development of a women empowerment center to basically educate, encourage and finance women candidates and aim to change our political landscape and make Gambia great.
TILLY BO, I will take you up on item 2. Would suggest that you add Science & Tech to item 1.
On item 2, I’d further add that we must look at producing and marketing items that can be handled in bulk if we are to make a dent on food security.
Also look to set up novel agricultural enterprises that could be developed into fully fledged industries while taking into account the nutritional needs of the The young and growing Gambian population and expectant mothers.
Quick example would be setting up a Soybean industry that would offer a wholesome item that could be blended with the traditional millet meal (Cherreh/Futo) to offer a balanced staple that’s far better than the bleached and polished white rice that’s not so beneficial for our young ones. The product could be sensibly processed and packaged for marketing.
Anyone recall the Corn-Soy-Milk (CSM) mixture that was offered by the School Feeding Program? That’s a much healthier fare than the white rice and stew or the Carb lady diets that Gambians are hooked onto.
Let’s look to do things different this time around.
Let’s keep the momentum going TILLY BO.
Andy, yes “Science & Tech” can be added to educate.
Your dietary concerns will come under health education.
Also I see no problem, blending a product in the future.
While I’m here can we throw out a few names for the foundation and also can we Google “company formation” and choose one for the structure of the company, ie; PLC, LTD, etc read up all information, then we will take a vote, when all 13 founding members are onboard. Any more questions?
PS, you got yourself, myself, Babu and Lamin. Bax are you in?
Luntango may choose to be a “doubting Thomas”?
I’m in Andy. If we can pull it off, the impact on lives could be unbelievable.
Absolutely NOT Andy; immersed in these projects since 2003. Got another going. But of course wishing you all great success. Shall we give Bax the title “MZEE” on this forum?
5 guaranteed founding members so far, 6 if I’m understanding what Dr Isatou Sarr, is saying correctly (most of your concerns will be taken care of under, education of economics), so we are looking for another 7 founding members,
With the start up businesses that we incubate, the foundation will be taking part ownership. Because of the work that will be involved.
All suggestions are possible, even though some will be more complicated than others, we have to deal with the lowest hanging fruits first, then work our way up the tree.
Bax and TILLY BO there’s no shortage of serious and forward thinking Gambians that own secure arable land that could be recruited into this venture as contract growers.
Luntango, this is not our usual Gambian “project” but a medium-large enterprise that you could fit very well as a contract grower with a vested interest in activities of your choosing.
It’ll come with a production component, agronomic services and quality management among others.
Andy, I am OLD! I am a MZEE! Let me just wobble after my hens around the compound to look for eggs!
TILLY BO what time zone are you on?
BST
UK.
I guess there is a basis to take the conversation to the next level hence there is a common desire of engaging in some kind of socio-economic undertaking in The Gambia.
Tilli Bo, I’ll suggest you create an email account where all those interested could send their contact details to.
If I get it right, we are still at the exploratory stage without obligations and firm commitments. Dida, why not be part of that so we learn from your experiences, too?
———————————-
Alamaa nna sali seyaala!
Ndeweenati!
Lamin.
Noted.
Wise Mzee Luntango.
I’ll throw in a wooden pipe and some locally grown Saba Tabaa/Pirriss (smoking tobacco).
I was hoping for something stronger in the pipe Andy! Bangi? Happy IDD to you all.
Ok, this is my email, tilliybo@gmail.com for questions and suggestions from those that are interested.
Good shout
Mwalimu.
Tilly Bo,
Look up a small start up in that coonects local farmers to small investors.
– Farmcrowdy.
“Farmcrowdy” sure, that’s also possible under incubator for small start-up
Mwalimu, Bajaw, Bax, Dr Sarr Nna Salibo/Ndewenal?
And none of the Alimang Maabay La Jaari Taa La because I’m gonna come back with, ANING FENG NDING. Smile!
ANING FENG NDING KAA DUA TINYAA LE. ALAMANG MAABAY LA JAARILAA. lol
Andy you will get Niangkatangding from me as you yourself said that’s what I eat. lol
Tili Bo, well done.
I’ll get in touch.
Alright Mwalimu, I’ll show up for the Nyankatandingo with my bowl screaming, KULIMAARR FA LA JALILU…
Luntango, Bangi?
How about some Changaa to go with it?
Wewe Ni MuKora Saana!
Too late Pjalo!
We Badibunkas love our Niankatang too much to keep it waiting in the Sing kirr daala for days.
Still you will not go home with buluu kengseng/looho néen. There is always monoo at the corner.
@Tilli Bo: continue the mobilization. We will get there soon.
See The Point news article on OJ below:
http://thepoint.gm/africa/gambia/article/im-ready-to-lose-my-job-agric-minister
“I’m ready to lose my job: Agric minister
Africa » Gambia » SHOW MAP
Wednesday, June 20, 2018
The minister of Agriculture Omar A. Jallow has affirmed that he is ready to lose his job in order to safe his integrity in the country.
O.J. was speaking recently at a press conference convened at his office in Banjul.
He added; “I don’t look for ministerial position and I never thought that I would be a minister then because I was in prison for 22 years. I was ready to make an ultimate scarifies for my country, that’s why I stayed when everybody ran away. I’m ready to lose my job to get to the bottom of this case. I have a family and I think is enough to be going through this problem. There are so much of stress from my friends and family in both home and abroad. This is not right because I have been the most-open politician to the press and if such happens, I think they should consult me before any publication.”
It could be recalled that an online Gambian media earlier on carried a story that the Minister of Agriculture has allegedly sold expired fertilizer to one Senegalese businessman- Momodou Dibba.
At a recent press briefing convened at State House, Amie Sissoho, the Director of Press at State House did mentioned in a statement that the president has been informed about an expired fertilizer stock that has been allegedly sold by the Ministry of Agriculture.
She added that an investigation has been launched and the report has been submitted to the Ministry of Justice for legal advice, which the president is waiting for.
However, Minister Jallow has explained that the president should have informed him or talk to him about the matter.
The renowned politician from 1977 to 1981, served as a Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs and MP for Serrekunda East. In 1981 to 1989 he became the Minister of Water Resources, Fisheries and Environment 1989 to 1994, the Minister of Agriculture and in 1998, consultant at FAO regional office in Ghana. In 1989 to 2001, he worked under the UN transitional Government in East Timor and in 2001 to date he became the leader of the PPP”.
The Minister has come back with the same old pity party that he peddles around in The Gambia and overseas trips in the belief that he is a master at exploiting the emotions and generosity of Gambians. “I stayed when everybody ran away” he says. And who are the everybody? OJ must understand that there’s what’s called choices. He chose to stay on for what he saw and expected to accomplish in waging the fight against the Jammeh regime. However, OJ was not alone in the fight as hundreds of Gambians, in a typical Gambian gesture of goodwill, donated thousands of Dollars in support of OJ and his family without asking any questions. Today it’s the same donors in the diaspora plus countless Gambians on the ground that have been forsaken by the the insincere politicians in the coalition government. We keep hearing the words, “In The Trenches” over and over again. What trenches I’d ask?
Leadership is about integrity, accountability, commitment and living up to expectation. OJ together with some of his pals, that benefited from sheer happenstance to join a coalition government, do not have anything to show for it but instead keep pitching the humdrum that, “we were in the trenches when everybody ran away so this is our call and you can’t tell us what to do”. So that gives them the right to plunder everything Gambian? Misplaced populism? A Ndongo?
True that where you’re showing pointers at guilt OJ, it’s time to psyche yourself for the prospect of losing your job!
The AG’s office must take quick and decisive action that is informed by the findings in the reports presented for review and there must not be any attempts to influence the outcome of the findings. A reminder that Gambians are keenly watching the events of the day.
What’s renown about a politician that has been carried all along by a party machinery that was the PPP anyway?Is this a PR stunt on OJ’s part? WE wouldn’t be here today if the same “renowned politicians” delivered on all the promises made to the Gambian people over 53 years. Remember OJ that yourself, Modou Jagne and others got the UN consulting job in East Timor in the spirit of BALAFAA and courtesy of Ismaila Ceesay (former GPTC, MD) that held a senior position in the East Timor transitional government. So not all Gambians have a short memory span!
The Point and Pap Saine, The Standard and Sherrif Bojang must get out of the business of Griot Journalism and self censorship! The days of Yaya Jammeh and the PPP are gone forever. Amadou Samba may not have much use for you either.