By: Alieu Ceesay
The film “Living with the Scars: Remembering April 10th & 11th, 2000” poignantly recalls a tragic chapter in Gambian history, focusing on the experiences of young Gambian students who were victims of violence.
Binta Manneh was only 15 years old when her life was changed forever by a brutal act that went largely unnoticed by the public for years. Her story, alongside that of Ebrima Barry—a 15-year-old schoolboy who was tortured to death—catalyzed nationwide protests by students in April 2000.
These demonstrations, which sought justice and accountability, were met with severe repression, leaving lasting scars on the nation’s collective memory. More than two decades later, the film calls for a reckoning with this painful history.
Produced by Fantanka, a project advocating self-protection and funded by the United Nations Development Programme through Women in Liberation and Leadership, the film was screened as part of a post-Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC) initiative. It highlights the bravery of young Gambians and the ongoing repercussions of a repressive regime, urging the country to confront its past while advocating for justice and accountability.
“I vividly remember that day,” the film’s narrator recounts. “Like many, I was preparing for exams when the peaceful rhythm of our lives was disrupted. Students, filled with courage and conviction, took to the streets to demand justice for Ebrima Barry and, unknowingly to many, for Binta Manneh.” Fantanka CEO stated
The making of Living with the Scars was fraught with challenges, reflecting the deep-rooted fear that still grips Gambian society. Locations were difficult to access, actors withdrew due to fear of retribution, and institutions hesitated to associate themselves with events from the dictatorship era.
“Fear continues to grip many,” said Mariama Jobarteh, CEO of Fantanka. “Some actors withdrew their consent after being discouraged by friends and family, who feared retribution. These challenges reflect the lingering silence in our society, even decades later.”
The film not only commemorates the victims of April 2000 but also draws attention to the alarming state of child protection in The Gambia today. According to UNICEF, one in three girls in the country experiences sexual violence before the age of 18, while nearly 30% of girls are married before reaching adulthood, cutting short their education and future opportunities.
Living with the Scars calls for a unified commitment to child protection, echoing the TRRC’s accountability, prevention, and open dialogue recommendations. The filmmakers urge the government to strengthen the enforcement of laws like the Children’s Act 2005, establish safe reporting mechanisms for abuse, and train educators to recognize and respond to trauma.
“This production is a testament to the resilience and courage needed to confront our past and amplify the voices of survivors,”
As the screening concluded, attendees were urged to reflect on their role in creating a Gambia where every child can grow free from fear and violence. For those present, Living with the Scars was not just a film but a call to action—a reminder that everyone has the responsibility of safeguarding children.
Other speakers include a representative from the UNDP, Mr. Sainey Ceesay, who also assures the Gambia government that UNDP supports the country’s Transitional justice.
“UNDP is committed to supporting the Gambia government’s national development plan on the Transitional justice journey; this commitment is reflected in our collaboration effort to ensure that the TRRC is implemented effectively and that the principles of justice, accountability, and Reconciliation are held.”
Sainey Senghore, Founder of Victims of April 10th and 11th, walked to the podium with his walking stick and reflected on the incident.
He calls on authorities for justice as other victims like him are still living with the Scars of security brutality.
“We are here today not just to remember but to ensure this pain becomes a catalyst for change, changes where justice is not a word but a reality, where human dignity is respected and where anyone is silent for speaking injustices.”
The event not only gathered victims of April 10th and 11th, 2000, but it was also a turning point for the Gambia government to ensure justice was served and a point to remind security sectors of professionalism.
