17/02/2025
FORMAL ADVICE TO THE CHAIRMAN OF BASSE AREA COUNCIL*
Dear Chairman Muhammed Ceesay,*
I am writing to bring to your attention pressing concerns that require your immediate action. As a respected leader in our community, it is imperative that you address these issues to ensure the progress and development of Basse Area Council.*
*Concerns*
*1. Corrupt Practices*: A significant number of revenue collectors in Basse Area Council are engaging in corrupt practices, hindering the council's progress and undermining the trust of the community.
*2. Misuse of Funds*: Officials responsible for managing donor-funded projects have been misusing funds for personal benefit, compromising the integrity of the council and jeopardizing the future of our community.
*3. Neglect of Community's Future*: Ignoring these corrupt practices and misuse of funds risks neglecting not only your own future but also the future of many others who are too young to decide their fate.
As you are aware, during your campaign, you traveled extensively throughout the Upper River Region, showcasing your kindness, love, and readiness to transform Basse into a secure and prosperous home for its people. Your commitment to the community's well-being is evident, and we urge you to continue on this path.*
*Recommendations*
*To address these concerns and ensure the prosperity of Basse Area Council, we recommend the following:*
*1. Establish a Council Efficiency Unit*: Create a unit to monitor and evaluate staff performance based on job descriptions, driving accountability and excellence in governance.
*2. Establish a Basse Diaspora Association*: Create a comprehensive association to leverage expertise, resources, and investments from Basserians abroad.
*3. Develop a Long-Term Development Plan*: Develop a plan to increase council revenue capacity by:
- Expanding residency towards Jimara, Tumana, and Sabi
- Partnering with Nawec to provide water and electricity
- Attracting investments to transform Basse into The Gambia's economic hub
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*4. Prioritize Woman Empowerment*: Focus on empowering women in horticulture and market activities to promote economic growth and social development.
*5. Support Agriculture and Education*: Support agriculture throughout the year and promote skills education for girls to enhance their economic prospects.
As the proverb goes, "The past shifts the presence, and both determine the future." Your actions today will shape the future of Basse and its people. Remember, "whatever you start, you must strive to the end."*
In administration, efficiency is what is required, not age, color, party, or tribe. Basse is bigger than any individual interests, and it is crucial to prioritize the community's needs above all else.*
If you succeed in your role, there are numerous executive positions awaiting you, and as a brother, father, uncle, and good son of Basse, you may even have the opportunity to become president.*
We urge you to take immediate action to address these concerns and implement these recommendations. The community has entrusted you with leadership, not just for themselves, but also for future generations.*
*Sincerely,*
*[concerned Basserian]*