16/02/2025
LET'S UNITE TO LIBERATE THE GAMBIA
The Republic of The Gambia at 60: A Reflection on Six Decades of Independence.
By Salifu Manneh
As The Gambia turns 60 on February 18, 2025, one fundamental question lingers: What do we have to show for six decades of independence? Having lived through the regimes of Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, Yahya Jammeh, and now Adama Barrow, I am in a unique position to share my personal experiences, reflecting on the highs and lows of our nation's journey.
The Journey to Independence and Beyond
Our road to independence in 1965 was marked by both hope and uncertainty. When Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara carefully and wisely led the negotiations, many doubted our ability to self-govern. But Jawara laid the foundation for a resilient nation. However, the decolonization process was never just political—it also required economic and psychological liberation. Kenyan writer Ngugi wa Thiong’o famously argued for "Decolonising the Mind," highlighting the deep-rooted impact of colonial influence.
In the early years, The Gambia enjoyed a stable economy and strong institutions:
Agriculture and Food Security: The Tesito initiative encouraged self-reliance in farming.
Healthcare: Primary care services were accessible, and diseases like diabetes and hypertension were less prevalent.
Public Works and Industries: The Denton Bridge oil plant, the Public Works Department, and the Gambia Utilities Corporation created jobs.
Education: The curriculum development department successfully structured our education system.
Stable Economy: The dalasi was strong, with a high foreign reserve.
Rule of Law: Public institutions safeguarded democracy and human rights.
Despite these achievements, one of Jawara’s major missteps was his prolonged stay in power. Over time, political stagnation, corruption, and factionalism within the PPP weakened the government, creating a vacuum that led to political instability.
The Coups and the Jammeh Era: A Nation in Turmoil
The 1981 coup attempt by Kukoi Samba Sanyang was a warning that went unheeded. By 1994, the military coup led by Yahya Jammeh overthrew Jawara’s government, plunging the nation into 22 years of authoritarian rule.
Jammeh’s early promises of economic revival and governance reform quickly turned into a dictatorship:
Political opponents were imprisoned, exiled, or executed.
Human rights abuses, including forced disappearances and torture, became rampant.
State resources were plundered, with the Janneh Commission revealing that over $1 billion was stolen.
Ethnic divisions were exacerbated as Jammeh sought to solidify his grip on power.
Delusional policies, such as his so-called HIV cure and witch-hunt campaigns, inflicted suffering on many Gambians.
Jammeh's eventual downfall in 2016 came as a relief to many, but the trauma of his rule lingers. His legacy serves as a reminder of the dangers of unchecked power.
Barrow’s Administration: Continuity or Change?
Adama Barrow’s election in 2016 was a moment of hope, but has he delivered on the promises of democratic renewal? Many argue that Barrow’s governance mirrors aspects of Jammeh’s:
He has retained key figures from the Jammeh regime.
Corruption and nepotism continue to plague public administration.
The economy remains fragile, with rising inflation and unemployment.
Land mismanagement and political maneuvering dominate his leadership.
Despite these setbacks, Barrow has an opportunity to set The Gambia on a new path. However, his alliance with remnants of the APRC and his growing appetite for power pose serious threats to democratic progress.
The Way Forward: Restoring the Vision of an Independent Gambia
To honor 60 years of independence and move towards a brighter future, we must take decisive actions:
Reform Key Institutions
Overhaul the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and judiciary to restore public trust.
Strengthen anti-corruption bodies with real enforcement powers.
Reduce the number of government ministries and increase efficiency.
Revitalize Agriculture and Industry
Modernize farming practices and provide financial support to farmers.
Rebuild local industries, including fishing and horticulture.
Strengthen Healthcare and Education
Invest in primary healthcare, general hospitals, and medical training.
Offer better incentives to teachers, especially in rural areas.
Restore the national school feeding program.
Economic Transformation and Accountability
Establish a social security system to support the vulnerable.
Limit excessive government spending, including foreign travel and unnecessary allowances.
Regulate land and resource management to prevent exploitation.
Enhance Democracy and Citizen Participation
Allow the Gambian diaspora to vote in all elections.
Ensure fair hearing of all election petitions in the courts.
Set up an independent think tank to chart a sustainable development strategy.
Infrastructure and Environmental Protection
Develop a railway system from Jeshwang to Basse.
Plan for a second airport in Basse.
Protect forests, coastal areas, and fishing resources from exploitation.
Conclusion: The Gambia is Ours to Build
At 60, The Gambia stands at a crossroads. Do we continue on a path of political complacency, or do we take bold steps to reclaim our independence in its truest sense? The answer lies in our collective action.
Your Gambia; My Gambia; Our Gambia—We must all be in this together.
Editors Note: Views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of Skypower Radio and TV Services. You have an opinion article or if you know is happening, has happened or about to happen get in touch with Skypower.
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