Alieu Ceesay
The leader of the opposition Gambia Action Party, Musa Yali Bachilly, has raised concerns about rampant corruption in President Barrow’s government, which he said has also been institutionalized.
Gambia is currently experiencing a critical historical moment as the country faces severe challenges, including widespread corruption and a devastating agricultural crisis made worse by a failed rainy season.
According to the Gambia Action Party (GAP), these issues are symptoms of a broader governance failure under President Adama Barrow’s administration, which has undermined the country’s potential for growth and stability.
Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly, the Secretary-General and Party Leader of the Gambia Action Party, addressed the urgency of tackling corruption, mismanagement, and the looming food security crisis.
“The failure of this government to address the most basic needs of our farmers and the public is a reflection of their lack of vision and accountability,” Batchilly said. “Corruption has become institutionalized, and the people, especially the farmers, bear the brunt of this incompetence.”
The situation for Gambian farmers is dire. The country’s largely subsistence agriculture sector is reeling from the effects of a failed rainy season, with crop yields plummeting and food security hanging in the balance. Despite the overwhelming evidence of a looming disaster, the government’s response to these crises is slow.
“The farmers are suffering, and there is no coherent plan from the government to help them. Instead of finding solutions, they are watching our agricultural sector crumble under mismanagement and corruption,” Batchilly emphasized. “Farmers lack access to affordable irrigation systems and drought-resistant seeds. The situation is becoming untenable,’ GAP Leader said in a statement.
The GAP proposes a series of urgent actions to reverse the damage. Batchilly stressed the importance of declaring an Agricultural Emergency Fund to immediately address the needs of struggling farmers and called for a thorough investigation into the ‘misuse’ of agricultural funds.
“We must ensure that funds meant to support our farmers are properly utilized. Transparency and accountability are crucial in restoring trust in government institutions,” he noted. “We need a government that invests in sustainable solutions, such as modern farming techniques, irrigation systems, and financial aid for farmers in distress.”
The GAP’s action plan also includes establishing partnerships with international agricultural organizations to bring modern farming practices to The Gambia. According to Batchilly, promoting youth involvement in agriculture is vital to creating a workforce capable of sustaining the industry in the long term.
“The future of agriculture in The Gambia depends on how we engage our youth. It’s not just about offering them jobs; it’s about creating an agricultural revolution to help secure our future,” Batchilly said. “We have the potential, but we need leadership that understands the importance of investing in agriculture and addressing the needs of our farmers.”
As the Gambia continues to struggle with economic instability, the Gambia Action Party is calling on President Barrow’s government to prioritize the needs of its people and take immediate action to tackle corruption, safeguard national resources, and ensure a sustainable future for Gambian farmers.
