The multi-million dalasi office complex, contracted to Gigo Construction Limited, represents another significant milestone in evolution of country’s independent media landscape. Further, the inauguration of this magnificent edifice forms part of activities marking the Gambia’s Diamond Jubilee independence anniversary. Within the short space of its existence, Star FM and TV, has contributed in changing the country’s media landscape, thanks to its rich, educative and informative contents.
In his inaugural statement, President Adama Barrow said the event features a remarkable achievement that signifies growth, progress and an invaluable investment in the country’s media landscape.
He noted that independent media is an essential pillar in democracy, promising that they will continue to support and empower the press to operate freely, fairly and beneficially.
To that end, he underscored the role of media in any thriving democracy as they educate, inform and entertain the public, while at the same time having the unique potentials to unite a nation thus fostering accountability and citizen participation.
“As a private media institution, Star FM and TV has significantly contributed to the country’s media landscape, while offering a platform for divergent views, creating employment opportunities and promoting national dialogue.”
Their commitment to journalistic excellence and public service is commendable. “I urge you all to keep up the good work you are doing and your team.”
This new building, he observed, is not only a symbol of expansion, but also an inspiring indication of innovation and resilience in the face of an evolving media landscape that has been suppressed for decades.
In this vein, President Barrow encouraged the management and staff of the institution to continue thriving for excellence while upholding ethical journalism and embracing new technology to reach wider audience.
“As a government, we remain steadfast in our commitment to peace, transparency and sustainable development.”
Earlier, Alpha Karaga, Chief Executive Officer, Star FM and TV, described the event as a significant milestone, marking 13 years of unwavering commitment to excellence in broadcasting.
“This office is not just about physical structure, but one that symbolizes growth, resilience and dedication that has defined Star FM and TV since its inception in September 2012. As we incorporate this historic event with the celebration of The Gambia Diamond Jubilee, reminding that Star Fm was established with a clear vision to educate, entertain and inform the public.”
He recalled their journey from the establishment of the radio in 2012 and the bold step they took to set up the television station in 2018, coming at a time when the media freedom was expanding in the country.
To that end, he thanked Gambian leader Adama Barrow for creating an enabling environment for the proliferation of media outlets in the country, while acknowledging the invaluable contribution of all those who played a part in making their dreams a reality.
He acknowledged the remarkable support of all their media partnerships and individuals both deceased and alive and thanked them for their support.
Haji Baniko Sissoho, proprietor of Star FM and TV, while thanking Adama Barrow for his dynamic leadership leading to media freedom in the country, recalled that that he was away but the reason he was able to make such an investment was thanks to his visionary leadership.
He thanked all their media partners in the country for their support and also saluted the Gambian leader for the numerous infrastructural projects currently taking shape across the country, which he said, is there for all to see.
Sissoho equally challenged Gambian businessmen to set up companies and employ Gambians to contribute to national development, while thanking the contractor, Gigo, for delivering a magnificent edifice that stands out.
Metta Touray, a treasurer, Gambia Press Union (GPU), on behalf of the Union, described the event as a remarkable milestone in the growth and expansion of the country’s media landscape.
The event was punctuated with presentation of awards to individuals, who contributed immensely to the growth and development of the institution.
