News and Events

The Director General of GMA, Mr. Karamo Bakary Janneh in his opening remarks welcomed the executive members of the National Fishermen Association and explained the rationale for the donation of the Life Jackets and other safety equipment, to fishermen in the provinces. Mr. Janneh stated that the donation is based on government’s desire to prevent loss of life in Gambian waters which translates into the implementation of the country’s maritime safety regulations by the institutions that are mandated by law. The DG called on the beneficiaries to respect the safety requirements and utilize the donated equipment appropriately as intended.

The Board Chairman of GMA, Hon. Mass Axi Gye, pointed out that “although the equipment donated is not adequate, if all the stakeholders come together, each playing a part and contributing towards the maritime sector's needs, it will enable us to develop the fishing sector among rural fishermen.” Chairman Gye urged the Fishermen Association Executive to distribute the equipment fairly among its members and ensure that they wear the life jackets when at sea, regardless of whether they can swim or not.

The President of the Fishermen Association Mr. Momodou Binta Dibba thanked the GMA for the donation which he promised will be distributed among boat operators who go to sea. Mr. Dibba pleaded with GMA to help in establishing markings at the ship wrecks of Lady Wright and Lady Chilel to serve as a signal and warning for boat operators who approach the area. 

Mr. Dibba recalled that there was a marking at the sites some years ago and it used to help fishermen in identifying the wreck, thus avoiding it. However these markings are no longer there and the ship wrecks have gone deeper in the water, thus making them invisible to fishermen. The Fishermen Association President lamented the damage that the ship wrecks cause to their boats, hence the need to find a solution to the problem.Mr. Dibba finally thanked GMA for extending its support to the fishermen.

Other speakers at the ceremony included the Head of Department of Maritime Safety and Security of GMA, Mr. Ebrima Jobe and a representative of the Fishermen. 
The ceremony was graced by GMA Management and staff.

GMA Communication.