The initiative also forms part of the institution’s resolve to not only share and care for its growing subscribers, but to also strengthen the partnerships and relationships that connect people as one community.
In his welcoming address, Hassan Kabbani, Chief Executive Officer, Comium Gambia, described Ramadan, as a month of goodness and blessings; a month that reminds people of reflection, gratitude, compassion and sharing.
‘‘These values guide us not only as individuals, but also as an organisation serving the people of the Gambia. I would also like to recognise the media, journalists, editors, professionals and influencers for the essential role you play in national development.’’
Highlighting their pivotal role in information and education ecosystem, CEO Kabbani reminded that through their work they shape public understanding and help build the trust.
‘‘At Comium we see you as partners, sharing the responsibility for progress. Over the past years, Comium has continued its journey of strengthening its foundations and moving forward as a resilient and forward-looking telecommunication operator.’’
He indicated that their focus is on expanding its network coverage, enhancing network quality, while also introducing innovative and affordable offers to democratize telecom services to all.
In so doing, CEO Kabbani noted that their Ramadan campaign reflects something fundamental to them, pointing out that corporate success must go hand-in-hand with social responsibility.
‘‘Comium is proud to operate and grow in the Gambia to be able to invest and contribute meaningfully to the country's digital future. We remain focused on expanding our footprint by supporting digital inclusion, extending connectivity, creating more employment opportunities and contributing to economic growth. Telecommunication today is no longer a luxury. It is the backbone of education, health, business solutions, governance and youth empowerment.’’
He also reminded that connectivity increasingly means access to information, opportunity and participation in the modern economy, assuring that the future of The Gambia digital ecosystem is promising.
‘‘Network modernisation, broader data accessibility, digital financial services, innovation and support for entrepreneurship will be key pillars of national progress.’’
This journey, he added, cannot be achieved by operators alone, as it requires collaboration between government, private sector, regulators and media.
He also talked about transparency and open communication, which he said, continues to remain a priority.
Also speaking, Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, thanked Comium Gambia for the move, acknowledging that it once again demonstrates the institution’s commitment to get to the people.
‘‘That is why we are building this partnership with the media. For the media is the interface between any institution, public or private, with the public. Whatever you want the public to know, the people to know, is through the media.’’
To this end, Dr Ceesay emphasized the critical partnership they’re building with the media, which he said, is a testament to Comium’s position in the country’s digital landscape.
‘‘They want to get close to the people and by getting close to the people we are doing that through the media. Now this is a very important night for me because you could have organized this event before Ramadan. But of all the months, you organize it in a month which is better than a thousand months.’’ he stated.
The Info Minister equally described Ramadan as a month that demands a lot and that is that’s why the fasting is prescribed for every Muslim.
‘‘But also for Christians as well, because we are in the month of Lent and they are also fasting. So, you feel what hunger is. And then you feel what it means to give and not to have. That is why this month is a month of humility.’’
In light of this, Minister Ceesay once again reiterated the role of the media, affirming that the Ministry could not have done its job properly or popularize government agenda without them.
Dr. Ceesay also spoke of government’s resolve to build a thriving, stable, secure democracy that the whole world today is talking about; positing that in every sector the country is leading when it comes to security and safety.
‘‘So we thank the government of the Gambia for laying the foundation so that companies like Comium can come and invest in this country peacefully and then support national development.’’
Ms Ida Ceesay, director of Communication and PR Comium, first thanked the media for their turn out, reminding that the Iftar was not only about breaking the fast together, but about to strengthen bonds and building trust to serve the Gambian people better with integrity.
The event was graced by media representatives, influencers and President of The Gambia Press Union.
