By Fatou Dahaba
Leading Gambian philanthropist and business magnate Momodou Turo Darboe returns with a massive display of compassion in the spirit of Ramadan as his Vision Development Foundation (VDF) distributed four thousand ten (4010) bags of sugar (10kg per bag) to 46 communities, institutions, and individuals at its office in Churchill’s Town on Friday 27th March in the 4th round of a major Ramadan food relief supporting public sector workers and local communities.
Previous donations covered members of the security sector and students of the Gambia College in a month-long campaign launched by the VDF, which is well known for its inclusive policy and consistent support to less privileged communities.
Speaking to this medium, Mr. Saikou Fofana of the VDF Public Relations Office said they have been implementing a focused Ramadan food relief program for the past years to complement the government and communities in supporting needy people.
However, he said their operation has expanded this year due to increasing support demands from grassroots communities and inner-city dwellers.
“This year, we have touched so many parts of the country, not only in the Greater Banjul Areas but also in the North Bank Region, Central River Region, Lower River Region, and West Coast Region,” he said.
Fofana commended Momodou Turo Darboe for single-handedly supporting the initiative and prayed for his longevity and good health to sustain his support to Gambians.
Ousman Yabo, former TANGO director, described Turo Darboe as one of the most recognized philanthropists in the country.
He pointed out that Mr. Darboe has helped thousands of people in need, paid school fees for hundreds of students at the Senior Secondary School and University levels, fed and clothed hundreds of people, and provided sugar, chicken, bread, tea, and cash to hundreds of people who gather at the VDF Office every Ramadan.
Wandifa Touray of Jarra Buiba, whose village received 50 bags of sugar, described the gesture as rare. He noted that while many wealthy people are wealthy, few think of sharing their wealth with the poor.
He re-echoed the need for other people to emulate Mr Darboe and his team.
Similarly, Muhammed Saidy, another beneficiary from Gunjur Sambou, commended Mr. Darboe for the gesture. He called on the government and all that can to give much-needed support to the underprivileged, encouraging Mr. Darboe to continue assisting Gambians for posterity.
The continuous efforts of Vision Development Foundation affirm the teachings of sharing and communion promoted during Ramadan, which ignites a spirit of solidarity and compassion, offering hope and assistance to vulnerable communities across The Gambia.
