Gambian philanthropist Momodou Turo Darboe has remembered victims of the Gambia’s former dictator, giving them hundreds of bags of sugar and rice.
The items were donated through the Kololi-based Gambia Center for Victims of Human Rights Violations (GCVHRV).
Speaking shortly after the presentation, centre’s Chairperson, Sheriff Kijera, lauded the initiative taken by the Vision Development Foundation (VDF), hailing it for coming to the aid of the victims.
He expressed hope that Momodou Turo Darboe’s gesture will be emulated by other Gambian business communities, and urged government to create the enabling environment for indigenous business people to operate.
In a similar vein, Baba Hydara, son of slain journalist Deyda Hydara, said since the inception of the centre, donations were mainly made by western organisations.
“This is a significant donation coming from a Gambian national,” he said.
He commended the benefactor for coming up with such a wonderful gesture that goes straight to the heart of victims.
Isatou Fatty, widow of the late Mahawa Cham, added her voice to the chorus of commendations.
She took the opportunity to highlight the huge difficulties her family is confronted with. “While I have three children, my co-spouse has for her part five kids to take care of,” she disclosed.
She urged government to fulfill its moral obligation in addressing the plight of victims.
Meanwhile, Momodou Turo Darboe himself acknowledges the difficulties the victims are confronted with.
He then gave assurance of his support, making it ‘very clear’ that the donation was just ‘the beginning’.
