By Haruna Kuyateh
The Gambia is celebrating its Diamond Jubilee, a moment to reflect on the nation’s growth and work towards a more prosperous future. In this spirit, The Voice newspaper has been engaging community leaders, seasoned administrators, and educationists to share their insights on the nation’s development trends and the way forward for lasting peace and security.
One notable figure, the retired Chief of Upper Badibou, Alhaji Sambujang Jagne, spoke to this medium highlighting the significance of the Diamond Jubilee celebration, which commemorates the country’s progress in development and its commitment to peace and security.
Chief Jagne, who witnessed pre-independence, independence, and republic days, recalled the grand celebrations of the past. Independence Day, he said, marked a beacon of hope and unity, strengthening the nation’s resolve to overcome economic challenges and move the development agenda forward.
Reflecting on the early days of education in Farafenni, Jagne recalled how the first school was established in 1961 in makeshift rooms with just a few classrooms. At the time, it was a significant challenge to convince families to send their children to school, leading to house-to-house campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of education.
Jagne also stressed the need for increased civic participation in strengthening democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
On the topic of river crossings, the retired Chief shared the history of the Balingho crossing and the discovery of Bamba Tenda by the late Chief Mama Tamba Jammeh, which later became the Bamba Tenda Crossing Point following the construction of the road in 1956. The road officially opened on June 8, 1958, significantly contributed to regional connectivity and commerce.
Chief Jagne commended the construction of the Senegambia Bridge in the present administration, which has transformed lives by improving transportation, boosting business opportunities, and facilitating cross-border trade, particularly between Senegal and Guinea-Bissau.
On efforts making, Alhaji Sambujang Jagne lauded the government for its efforts in consolidating peace, security, infrastructure development, healthcare services, and economic growth. He also urged the youth to seize opportunities in agriculture, skills development, and environmental management.
Similarly, Alhaji Kebba Jagne, an experienced administrator and educationist, praised the government’s achievements in infrastructure, education, health, agriculture, and human resource development. He urged public servants to remain committed to their duties, ensuring good governance through accountability and punctuality.
Reflecting on the Gambia students in Egypt, Alhaji Kebba Jagne mentioned the celebration of independence at the Senegalese Embassy in Cairo on February 18, 1965. He also addressed the issue of irregular migration, urging the youth to reject such risky journeys and instead embrace opportunities in agriculture, where they can contribute to food security and job creation.
This celebration of The Gambia’s Diamond Jubilee offers a chance to honor the country’s progress while reaffirming the collective responsibility to continue building on these achievements for a brighter, more sustainable future.