By: Alieu Ceesay
Veteran Gambian philanthropist and humanitarian Momodou Turo Darboe, through his Vision Development Foundation (VDF), has commenced its 2026 Ramadan humanitarian program, continuing more than three decades of dedicated service to vulnerable communities nationwide.
The flagship initiative involves the nationwide distribution of sugar to support households during the holy month, when many families face heightened challenges in meeting basic food needs. This effort complements government assistance and promotes solidarity across The Gambia.
Saihou Fofana, Public Relations Officer for VDF, announced that the foundation has procured approximately 29 containers of sugar, totaling around 11,440 bags of 50kg each. The total value of this generous donation stands at $34,452,000, underscoring the scale of Turo Darboe’s commitment to alleviating hardship.
The aim and objective of setting up this NGO are to complement the government’s efforts and ensure that every Gambian is cared for. That’s why the Vision Development Foundation came into existence,” Fofana stated.
True to its inclusive ethos, the distribution extends to both Muslim and Christian communities, reflecting VDF’s non-discriminatory approach to humanitarian aid.
Demba Jallow, representing the Supreme Islamic Council, expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the council. “We thank the donors for their generosity. May Allah bless this movement,” he said, while assuring the public of a transparent and equitable process.
The official launch ceremony took place in Bakau, attended by regional, community, and district authorities who witnessed the kickoff of this nationwide outreach.
Momodou Turo Darboe, CEO of VDF and one of The Gambia’s most prominent philanthropists, addressed beneficiaries and stakeholders, urging them to remember the foundation in their prayers. He emphasized that the work stems from religious duty and family legacy.
“We are working to help the needy ones as a way of contributing to national development. This is what Allah instructed us to do, and I found my parents doing it. The only thing we expect from you people is your prayers,” Darboe said.
He described the annual Ramadan gesture as an inheritance from his late father—a legacy he remains steadfast in upholding for the benefit of humanity.
Over the years, VDF has built a reputation for large-scale Ramadan interventions, often distributing thousands of sugar bags alongside other essentials to institutions, security forces, religious groups, and grassroots communities. This year’s program builds on that tradition, reinforcing communal support during a spiritually significant time.
As distribution rolls out across regions, the initiative highlights the vital role of private philanthropy in bolstering social welfare in The Gambia. Darboe and VDF continue to inspire hope, demonstrating that sustained generosity can make a tangible difference in the lives of the less fortunate.
