By: Alieu Ceesay
The Vision Development Foundation (VDF) has once again stepped in to ease the burden on underprivileged Gambians, distributing more than 200 rams to needy families and individuals as the country prepares for the Islamic festival of Eid al-Adha.
The foundation’s headquarters in Fajara, typically a tranquil compound, transformed into a bustling distribution center on Tuesday evening, with hundreds of rams crowding the backyard. Beneficiaries from various walks of life queued patiently to receive the animals, which they will sacrifice in accordance with Islamic tradition during the upcoming festival.
This year’s distribution comes amid sharp increases in ram prices, making it difficult for many low-income families to afford the customary sacrifice. Livestock dealers have blamed the surge on regional instability in Mali and fluctuations in the exchange rate between the CFA franc and the Gambian dalasi.
The initiative, now in its third decade, underscores VDF’s long-standing commitment to supporting vulnerable communities. The first phase of this year’s ram distribution began on Monday night across the Greater Banjul Area, with more families expected to benefit in subsequent phases.
Fatou Saho, one of the beneficiaries, expressed deep gratitude after receiving her ram. She dismissed social media speculation that the foundation’s activities were politically motivated, emphasizing its consistent humanitarian focus.
“I know Turo very well. He has been helping people since way back,” Saho said. “During Ramadan, he helps with sugar, rice, and lots of other food items. If this is politics, things will never be like this. Even if it is politics, people will still come out because he is someone that people listen to and love this country.”
Another recipient, Lamin Tombong Jarju, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the foundation’s three-decade track record of service.
“I’m very happy and grateful for Turo and the foundation. For over thirty years, he’s helped people. We pray that God will give him a long life. I am grateful,” Jarju stated.
Momodou Darboe, Chief Executive Officer of the Vision Development Foundation, described the annual distribution as a growing tradition rooted in compassion.
“I’m doing this for thirty years now, and every year things keep growing,” Darboe said. “What we ask from you is your prayers.”
The foundation’s efforts have earned it widespread appreciation, particularly at a time when economic pressures are testing many Gambian households. As Tobaski approaches, the distribution not only provides immediate relief but also reinforces communal solidarity and the spirit of sacrifice that defines the festival.
With prices continuing to rise, initiatives like VDF’s ram distribution are expected to remain vital in ensuring that even the most disadvantaged families can participate fully in the religious observance.
