The gesture is in fulfilment and promoting the fundamental teaching and values of Islam, as Muslims fast during the holy month of Ramadan. The representatives of these international organisations are Turkish nationals based in Netherlands.
A total of one thousand nine hundred twenty-two (1,922) less privileged families have benefited from this Ramadan food distribution exercises.
During the first distribution, the organisations distributed 400 bags (10kg) of sugar, 400 gallons (3liter) of cooking oil and 400 boxes (10kg) of oil and macaroni to needy families in Njau district, Upper Saloum. Similarly, food items were distributed to needy families in Abuko on 9th April 2023, where over 470 families have benefited.
Musa Jallow, Country Coordinator CHRO-Gambia, said Sunday’s Ramadan gift was to provide food support to needy Gambian citizens across the country.
“Over D3 million was spent in this year’s Ramadan. This huge amount was brought in by these representatives to buy food commodities in order to put smiles on the faces of the underprivileged families, so they can be also happy with the Ramadan.’’ he added.
Jallow made reference to the hard realities in the market in view of the skyrocketing food prices, but all these organisations are out to satisfy poor families.
Giving a short history about how these organisations and how their contribution has impacted towards the development of the country, Jallow revealed Al-Khataab Foundation donated over 151 ICU beds to Ministry of Health in 2020.
“IHHNL has also been donating Ramadan gift to needy Gambians since 2012. We built almost 4 to 5 Arabic schools. We have many children in schools. We have also built a medical clinic in Medina Salaam. Right now, we are constructing 5 schools for the government. Thanks to IHHNL and we appreciate their participation in these areas.’’ he explained.
Jallow further thanked the government of The Gambia for giving them such room to participate and contribute in bettering the lives of needy families in the country.
“On behalf of our partners, I thank the government of the Gambia for allowing us to give back to its citizens.’’ he thanked.
LihatBagli, a representative for IHHNL, said their organisation has been active for 30 years in helping poor families across 35 different countries of the world, especially in Africa.
“Today on the 9th of April marks our 12-years of active service in Gambia. We are from Netherland and donations from the people of Netherlands are being brought here to give back to the poor. People really need help. We want to make the world a better place for everyone.’’ he remarked.
Yavuz Selim, another representative from IHHNL, expressed delight in giving back to communities, saying he felt that the move is part of strengthening Muslim brotherhood, sisterhood around the world.
“We are here with people in need. To share whatever we have because people do not choose to born poor. No one has chosen a decision to be in poverty. So, we want to share our wealth with our people in need in the world, especially our Muslim brothers. This is our main inspiration,’’ he added.
Adama Jammeh on behalf of the beneficiaries, thanked the charity organisations for the dedication and foresight, further assuring that the items would go a long way in helping ease their worries in this year’s Ramadan.
“We are happy to receive this Ramadan gift from these organisations. They have been doing it. The food items will really help us and our children during this holy month of Ramadan,’’ she expressed appreciation.
