Bakau Food Distribution: Councillor says the Vulnerable Group is Priority

By Kumba Leigh

 

Binta Janneh-Jallow, councillor for Bakau Newtown Fajara Ward says they are giving priority to the vulnerable group of the society and this comprise of the differently-abled, women, among others. She said this in an interview with this medium at the government food aid distribution point in Bakau New Town community centre.

She described the process as generally smooth, as there is no violence is experienced since the distribution commenced.

Revealing the amount given for distribution, the councillor said she received 1000 bags of sugar and rice, eight hundred and forty-three 10-liter oil, with an additional one hundred and forty-two sugar to meet the demand of the people. So far, she disclosed, they have already disbursed six hundred bags of both rice and sugar.

She however admitted that there have been some challenges; especially with regard to registration. When giving out the ration, she intimated, they check for the person’s ID card, coupon, telephone number, and tracking of the registration of the number of people in the household, and the person certified to receive the ration on behalf of the household.

"It is very hectic for the fact that we have to work on two to three hundred coupons daily. A lot of people do not have a coupon and want to receive these food items and that is a problem. We are committed to ensuring transparency and fairness in sharing the ration. We make sure we are on the ground from 8:00am to 5:00pm to ensure effective distribution process.’’ She asserted.

Mrs Janneh-Jallow explained that a survey and household registration had been conducted in community to ensure fair treatment and transparency during the distribution. She thanked the central government; disaster management organisations and philanthropists for their immense support towards the fight against the impact of COVID-19.

For CPL Jamo Gibba, Head of Security at Bakau Newtown Fajara Ward distribution centre, ensuring security is a priority. He said process is without any hitches and that with their experience, they are able to monitor the procedure accordingly.

Fatou John Touray, a beneficiary, expressed delight for receiving the food rations. She praised the initiative saying most people in this country live from hand to mouth and this will help them a lot in this time of COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Pa Saihou Touray, also a beneficiary, hailed the government for the foresight.