It is sad that the government is investing hugely in some of these foreign travels by senior government officials at the detriment of the poor people, who deserve urgent attention. Some of those foreign travels are not only irrelevant, but not of utmost interest to the country.
It would amaze some that the government is investing huge amounts of money in most of these foreign travels at a loss as some individuals contribute nothing in terms of development.
It has gone to an extent that every senior civil servant lures or wants to be associated with it mainly for the per-diems it generates for them.
Even after the event, they have nothing to contribute to the development issues or provide anything tangible for the country. This is not fair at all. Also, the funds spent on some of these unnecessary travels could have been spent on other key infrastructures for the good of the populace.
Looking at the country today, there are many sectors that need urgent investment. From price hike, health infrastructure, high cost of living to other areas, the challenges Gambia faces are visible for all to see.
To address some of these challenges, the government needs to take a robust, frank and bold move. Though the move may not be welcome by all but if it is in the best interest of the citizens or the people, it is worth it.
Therefore, this ban is not only timely, but important to be able to make meaningful headway.
This also brings to mind the importance of human development. All would agree that human development is not only a process of enlarging people's freedoms and opportunities and improving their well-being, but also something that regards people’s lives as its central focus.
Therefore, as a developing nation and to be able to meet the emerging needs of the population, it is important for one to focus on issues that are of utmost importance.
We therefore commend the government for taking the bold move to ban foreign travels, recognising the urgent need to control government expenditure.
Such a move will also help the government to make informed-choices in areas that need urgent attention.