By Aja Beyai
In a significant move for the West Coast Region (WCR), the Brikama Area Council (BAC) has announced the disbursement of 28 million dalasis for development across 28 electoral wards, with each ward receiving one million dalasis at a ceremony held at the BAC premises and represents a considerable advancement in local governance.
The Brikama Area Council, one of The Gambia’s eight local government administrative authorities, is chaired by Yankuba Darboe. The funding initiative has been launched in response to the challenges faced by the council due to a rapid increase in the region’s population.
A key component of this initiative involves the engagement of ward development committees, which will focus on identifying and prioritizing the development needs of their respective wards. Officials say that this decentralized, participatory approach aims to enhance community involvement in decision-making and in the execution and maintenance of projects.
Chairman Darboe highlighted the significance of the decentralization model, stating, “It further ensures that every ward of our region receives a fair share of our region’s limited resources and revenues mobilized annually.”
He referenced last year’s disbursement, in which BAC allocated 14 million dalasis to the 28 wards, amounting to 50,000 dalasis per ward. This funding facilitated the implementation of 22 boreholes, which have provided clean drinking water to as many communities as possible.
This latest funding initiative is expected to foster further development in the West Coast Region, underscoring the council’s commitment to effectively addressing local needs.
Reflecting on the challenges faced when he assumed office, Darboe mentioned a debt of 10 million dalasis and issues related to corruption within the council.
He noted that addressing these challenges has enabled BAC to achieve important successes, including the creation of jobs for 264 young people and scholarships for 300 students. ‘The intention is to double that number to 600 in the upcoming year.’
Despite these advancements, Darboe raised concerns about the lack of financial support from the central government, highlighting that BAC has not received any development subvention since 2023. He also noted that outstanding property rates and geological contributions from the government have yet to be paid.
Acknowledging the critical role of the community, Darboe emphasized the importance of residents’ support in paying their rates, licenses, and taxes.
“This is the heartbeat of our council, without which it cannot survive,” he stated. He expressed hope that the recent disbursement would symbolize a commitment to change as voted for by the community in the 2023 elections.
Darboe called for continued community support to combat corruption and address the region’s numerous challenges. His remarks underscored a broader commitment to transparency and accountability, reaffirming that community involvement is crucial for the council’s success and sustainability.
