By Fatou Dahaba
In a heartwarming display of compassion during the holy month of Ramadan, Modou Turo Darboe, Chief Executive Officer of the Vision Development Foundation (VDF), has been praised for his generous contributions to thousands of needy Gambians.
On Wednesday, March 26, crowds gathered at the VDF office in Churchill’s Town to receive fast-breaking meals and essential supplies on Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Power—one of the most sacred nights in Islam, believed to fall within the last ten days of Ramadan.
Laylat al-Qadr holds profound significance for Muslims worldwide, revered as a night “holier than a thousand months.” It is a time for intensified worship, including voluntary Nafila prayers, Sadaqah (charity), and Dua (supplication), all believed to bring immense spiritual rewards. Darboe’s timely intervention provided vital support to fasting Muslims, distributing rice, sugar, chicken, dates, milk, tea, bread, and cash assistance. Additionally, cattle were distributed to underserved communities nationwide, ensuring sustenance during this blessed period.
Beneficiaries expressed deep gratitude for Darboe’s benevolence, which has been a lifeline since Ramadan began. Fatou Ceesay, one recipient, described him as “a Gambian-born philanthropist who believes in the culture of caring and sharing,” particularly during Ramadan and Tobaski. Another beneficiary, Isatou Kujabi, told this reporter, “The Gambia needs more Modou Turo Darboes,” emphasizing his consistent support for low-income people.
Salamata Keita echoed this sentiment, noting that Darboe’s daily gifts have eased her family’s struggles. “Without this help, I would have found it very difficult to survive,” she said.
Darboe’s efforts have earned him widespread admiration, with many calling him a humanitarian and philanthropist whose actions embody Islamic values of generosity. Beneficiaries unanimously agreed that “The Almighty Allah will reward him for helping both Muslims and non-Muslims during Ramadan. “
Saikou Fofana, VDF’s Public Relations Officer, lauded Darboe’s commitment to alleviating poverty and transforming lives. “If The Gambia had more people like Turo Darboe, the suffering of the vulnerable would be greatly reduced,” Fofana said. He urged Gambian business leaders to follow Darboe’s example, especially during Ramadan—a month celebrating compassion, community, and support for the less fortunate.
Darboe’s initiatives provide immediate relief, foster unity, and reinforce the spirit of generosity central to Islam. As Ramadan continues, his contributions are a powerful reminder of one individual’s impact in uplifting an entire community.
