The initiative was spearheaded by the Kombo Jali Development Association in collaboration with the Jali Village Development Committee, Sukiang Jali and Jaliba Jula Associations.
Members say the gesture was part of their contribution to support their community during the difficult period of the coronavirus outbreak that is threatening lives and food security around the world. They said it is also part of their support to the community during Muslims holy month of Ramadan.
President of Kombo Jali Development Association, Tumbul Drammeh said he was overwhelmed by the efforts of the sons and daughters of Jali both home and abroad for the gesture. He said providing such a big gesture demonstrates one’s commitment and love for his community.
He advised the people of Jali and the entire country to respect the World Health Hrganisation’s and Gambia government’s precautionary measures to avoid coronavirus from spreading, saying that everyone must believe that covid-19 is real.
Public Relations Officer Lamin Drammeh said the idea of the initiative came from a single person and was soon embraced by all the citizens of Jali both in The Gambia and abroad.
“Just within two weeks we were able to raise a substantial amount and people are still sending in their contributions,” he said.
He said every household in Jali will benefit from the gesture, including those who are not presently residing in the village. “Every Jalinka across the world have contributed to this initiative.”
According to him, Jali has always been an example in kiang, saying they will continue to maintain that trend of giving back to their community at any time of need. He called on Gambians to support one another during difficult times like the period of coronavirus outbreak.
