By Fatou Sanneh
Hon. Minister Sheriff Abba Sanyang has embarked on familiarisation tour of line institutions of the ministry. Last week the Minister and delegation were at the Governor’s Office in Brikama and Kanifing Municipal Council, where he reiterated the need for unity, respect for chain of command and collaboration among the institutions. “It does not matter who you are; the focus on national development should be the same”.
Proper waste management, respect for the existing laws and chain of command were among the key highlights of the discussions.
In his opening remarks, the Governor of West Coast Region, Mr. Ousman Bojang, urged the Area Council to work hand in hand with the Governor’s Office to develop West Coast Region.
Presenting the Council’s achievements over the recent years, the Chairman of Brikama Area Council, Mr. Sheriffo Sonko highlighted that the constructed boreholes for communities in West Coast Region, construction of shade for Farato market, construction of modern toilet facilities for markets and hospitals, construction of roads and expansion of electricity and solar street light.
Inadequate human capacity, sanitary equipment, lack of promotion of Council staff and no retirement benefits for councilors were some of the challenges, Chairman Sonko highlighted.
The Director of Community Development, Ms Fatou Gibba and Principal Assistant Secretary, Pa Kalipha Sanyang both took turn to enlighten the councilors and staff of councils on the Local Government Act, decentralisation and devolution of powers to the councils, as well as the importance of following protocols and respect of the rule of law.
Similarly, Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda of KM, thanked the Hon. Minister for taking such an initiative. He also informed the delegation about the activities they have undertaken; such as visit to councils to engage them on their activities and the challenges. He assured the Hon. Minister of his Council’s total cooperation and collaboration in working with the ministry.
The Deputy CEO Mr. Kajally Janneh reported that the Mbalit Project improved revenue generation, waste management
The delegation was also at Banjul City Council, where they met with Deputy Mayor, councilors, and council staff and discussed the achievements and issues affecting them as a council
The Lands minister Hydara promised to consider the concerns of the councils, and assured.
Hon. Minister assured the Council that their concerns are noted and they will be looked into accordingly. Hon. Minister further assured the council of his ministry’s full support and collaboration for the progress and development of Banjul.
The Council thanked the Hon. Minister for according them this rare opportunity and assured him of their cooperation with the ministry.
