By: Haruna Kuyateh
Jokadou District Assembly, on Saturday, held its 3rd Annual Report and Award ceremony for tax compliance. Also, the ceremony was also used to celebrate different institutions, individuals, and organizations’ achievements during 2023 in North Bank Region (NBR).
The ceremony was held at Kuntair Senior Secondary School in the region, where two hundred certificates were awarded.
The occasion was attended by chiefs, security personnel, alkalolu, Governor LRR, NGOs, and institutions.
Chief Alpha Mariam Khan of Jokadou described the annual award ceremony as ultimate in the district assembly.
Chief Khan said the 2023 awards are of different categories which included The Most Peaceful Villages, Tax Compliance, The Most Environmentally Friendly Villages (regarding tree growing and protection against bushfires, land conflict management), Best Performing Institutions and Organizations, Special Outstanding and Supporting Individuals.
Chief Khan said the 2023 Annual Report revealed marked improvement in all sectors and commended the 40 communities, individuals, and institutions for their support and steadfastness.
He lauded the Kerewan Area Council for their support of the inclusion of women at the district tribunal court, noting it has strengthened capacity in women empowerment.
Chief Khan hailed the joint patrol of security forces in curbing crimes and promoting community policing within Jokadou. He acknowledged the immense contribution of youths to national development and challenged them to be law-abiding.
He, therefore, called on the government to support farmers with more farm implements and do more to reduce the high cost of living.
Governor Lamin Saidykhan thanked Chief Alpha Mariam Khan for the foresight, noting that the initiative contributed to building mutual understanding, and respect for the rule of law, and accelerating community development initiatives. He noted the move taken by the Jokadou chief can be seen as a learning point for all and call on the people to support and promote consultation with authority.
Seedy Kinteh Manager of Giboro Custom Post and a Guest on Honor expressed delight and called on people to support and respect the leadership.
Lamin BM Marong, Regional Director of the State Intelligence Service on behalf of the Director General of SIS hailed the people of Jokadou for proactiveness in promoting peace, security, and effective management of land disputes in 2023. He noted with pride the noble initiative undertaken by the Jokadou Assembly in promoting law and order.
Hon Salifu Jawo, National Assembly Member for Jokadoudisclosed that the government through National Road Authority will construct a 40 Km Road in Jokadou and thanked President Barrow for the electricity expansion and assured the remaining three villages work will commence in the phase of the project.
Chief George L Sonko of Lower Nuimi urged everyone to rally behind Chief Khan to consolidate the gains in promoting and enhancing human security.
Mayoro Leigh, alkalo of Jamagen, and Aja Haddy Gaye Women tribunal court members assured of their support to the district tribunal and council of elders.
Chairman Papa Tunkara of Kerewan Area Council said the council supported women’s inclusion at the district tribunal court to enhance the women empowerment drive.