Gambia at 60: Prayer for Her!
Gambia’s Journey of Democracy: A Remarkable Yet Unremarkable Path!!
Alagi Yorro Jallow
Fatoumatta: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair…” This powerful quote from Charles Dickens’s “A Tale of Two Cities” strikingly encapsulates the Gambia’s journey since independence and the disappointing reality we face today. In a previous speech, esteemed Gambian scholar Donald Wright addressed the alarming state of our democracy, expressing deep concern about the nation’s inability to meet its fundamental responsibilities.
He lamented our failure to provide essential infrastructure and adequately protect our citizens. Wright’s analysis delivers a poignant and stark assessment of our current predicament and the underlying issues contributing to it—a dysfunction that has precipitated the decline of what used to be a vibrant nation since our independence. There is no denying that during the colonial era and in the immediate aftermath of our liberation, the Gambia experienced a golden era. Yet, as we reflect on our journey, it becomes painfully clear that the years following independence have plunged us into some of the darkest times in our history.
Over the past 60 years, Gambians’ expectations for good governance—the cornerstone of all societal progress—have been tragically unmet. For countless Gambians who have lived and died during this time, the experience of being a citizen of this nation has often been marked by a bittersweet blend of patriotism and deep disappointment. We take immense pride in our homeland, celebrated for its opportunities, natural beauty, and resources, yet we are haunted by the pervasive sense of failure that plagues our great nation. Half a century after gaining our independence, we stand by helplessly as our country endures relentless suffering. This suffering is all the more painful given our abundant wealth while the majority of our citizens languish in poverty.
Fatoumatta: The riches of our nation are hoarded by a privileged minority who cling to power, leaving hundreds of thousands to struggle for life’s most basic necessities: water, food, safety, clothing, healthcare, shelter, and peace of mind. Today, most Gambians face a grim reality characterized by extremely low life expectancy, dismal living standards, and a shocking lack of essential services. This current state is a far cry from the days when The Gambia held the esteemed title of Africa’s pride, flourishing on a trajectory of advancement during the colonial era. Those were the golden days—filled with prosperity, hope, and ambition—marked by a collective spirit of enthusiasm and dedication. Yet those best times also gave rise to harrowing truths: a reality where Gambians endure hardship with little hope for innovation or genuine choices.
Unfortunately, The Gambia, once a beacon of success at the dawn of independence, has shown a disturbing reluctance to earnestly confront and analyze the systematic failures that obstruct its development. Almost all the legacies left by colonial leaders have been shamefully neglected. During their tenure, the British invested heavily in infrastructure, building roads, ports, and administrative hubs that laid the foundations for contemporary progress. They established schools that transformed literacy rates and opened doors to educational opportunities for Gambians. The introduction of innovative agricultural techniques and crops, such as groundnuts (peanuts), significantly enhanced our economy. The creation of the Agricultural Station country wide aimed to equip local farmers with new cultivation methods.
Moreover, the British implemented a robust legal and administrative framework, establishing courts and codifying laws that provided a solid foundation for governance and justice. Their administration also contributed to public health improvements through modern healthcare facilities that reduced disease prevalence and elevated general well-being. They actively sought to stabilize the economy with financial policies that fostered trade and growth.
In stark contrast, today we grapple with the failure to provide even basic modern transportation systems—be it air, land, or river—for our citizens. When the colonial rulers were present, we enjoyed a reliable and safe water supply network, delivering potable water without the constant anxiety of cholera or typhoid. We had stable electricity and general hospitals that offered exemplary medical care to all Gambians, irrespective of their social standing. Our police force was effective and respected, supported by a professional Field Force committed to maintaining peace. These legacies of the colonial era were not merely relics; they were invaluable assets that our so-called nationalists inherited. In those days, traversing the country was safe and straightforward. Today, we find ourselves woefully adrift from the achievements we once held dear. It is time for us to recognize this disparity and strive towards reclaiming our nation’s potential.
Fatoumatta: While we can acknowledge notable successes, we must also confront the undeniable negative impacts of British colonial rule, including the exploitation of resources and the suppression of local cultures. It is essential to strike a balance between these aspects when evaluating the overall legacy of colonialism. To put it bluntly, the past 60 years in The Gambia have been characterized by disjointed attempts to meet the needs of our society. We have been led by individuals who seem more focused on their self-interest than on the welfare of our nation. Many of our current politicians, along with numerous former leaders, have misled Gambians for their own gain. This has resulted in a landscape filled with monumental regrets for our country.
Today, we are witnessing unprecedented tragedies marked by an extraordinary and disgraceful lack of security, as Gambians face daily threats of violence and abduction from faceless criminals. It is deeply troubling that no high-ranking officials in our security forces have resigned over this crisis, except for Inspector General of Police Kinteh following the tragic incident at Faraba Bantang. The relentless woes we endure, combined with indifferent officials who appear oblivious to the suffering around them, tell a devastating story of our nation’s failure. For those of us who cherish this country, it is imperative that we reflect on our journey over the past 60 years and dedicate ourselves to uniting the Gambian people. I firmly believe in the vision of “One Gambia, One People, One Destiny” and am prepared to fight vigorously for the soul of my motherland. However, I am also convinced that The Gambia urgently needs a complete transformation, a renaissance, and a renewed focus on the pressing issues of our time. Unless we undertake a fair redistribution of wealth and dismantle the toxic ethnic and religious divisions that plague us, our hope for justice and equitable rights could very well slip away. We must face the legacy of profligacy and self-serving behavior that have marred our past 60 years. It is crucial to confront the pervasive cancer of corruption, to demonstrate sincerity and commitment to the well-being of our nation and its citizens, and to bridge the widening chasm between our government and the Gambian masses. The time for meaningful change is now, for the future of our country depends on our collective resolve to heal and unite.
As we step into a transformative era for The Gambia, we stand at a crucial crossroads that could usher in a new dawn or pose significant challenges ahead. It’s essential for each of us, as well as our leaders, to reflect thoughtfully on what has been accomplished and what remains to be done. There is an incredible opportunity for growth, but it requires collective awareness and action. As the political landscape shifts in anticipation of 2026, let’s take a moment to genuinely evaluate what lies ahead. What do we stand to gain? What do we risk losing? This is our moment to take charge of our destiny, making choices that align with the future we envision for our nation.
Fatoumatta: Rather than getting caught up in the current distractions, let’s encourage our leaders to instill a sense of hope in the hearts of Gambians. We can aspire to move beyond the status quo, paving the way for a brighter tomorrow. One day, we want The Gambia to proudly declare, “We lived through challenges, but we emerged stronger and more united than ever!” With optimism and enthusiasm, let’s embrace this chance for constructive change, ensuring our voices contribute to a prosperous future that benefits everyone. Together, we can forge a path filled with possibility, making the best of times even better!
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…” This iconic quote by Charles Dickens from *A Tale of Two Cities* beautifully encapsulates the journey of The Gambia through its colonial past and the years following independence. As we reflect on our 60 years of freedom, it’s essential to embrace both our achievements and our ongoing challenges. Over the decades, The Gambia has seen three remarkable presidents: Dawda Jawara, Yahya Jammeh, and Adama Barrow. Each one has played a pivotal role in shaping our nation’s growth and character, leaving behind a unique legacy that continues to influence us today. As we celebrate this significant milestone, we can take pride in our story of resilience and determination. Dawda Jawara established the groundwork for democracy, setting the stage for an era of hope. Yahya Jammeh’s tenure highlighted the complex interplay between progress and authoritarianism, urging us to reflect on our values as a nation.
Currently, under Adama Barrow’s leadership, we see a renewed commitment to democratic governance and positive change, fostering optimism for a brighter future. While it’s true that challenges remain—such as modern living conditions and access to education—we must appreciate the strides we’ve made over the years. Many in The Gambia still live in grass-thatched homes and face learning in makeshift classrooms, yet it is this spirit of perseverance that inspires us to push for development and progress.
Fatoumatta: As we commemorate our 60 years of independence, let’s celebrate our achievements while also recognizing the importance of good governance and the protection of human rights. Together, we can navigate the journey ahead, committed to fostering a thriving, equitable society for all Gambians. With every challenge, there lies an opportunity for growth, and with unity, the possibilities for our beloved country are limitless.
