This annual Ramadan donation backed by Gambian philanthropist -Modou Turo Darboe, through his Vision Development Foundation (VDF), continues to make impact in providing critical support to vulnerable families across The Gambia.
Since its inception, hundreds of needy communities have benefited in the form of food aid and financial assistance, serving as a beacon of hope for those in need during this sacred period.
Saihou Fofana, Public Relations Officer of Vision Development Foundation, reiterated the foundation’s commitment to transparency and ensuring that donations reach those in need.
“On behalf of our CEO, we urge all recipients to be patient and ensure that the aid is delivered to the intended beneficiaries. This is always our emphasis, to put smiles on the faces of the less privileged,” he said.
Also speaking, Mahamadou Ceesay, chairman of Basse Area Council, highlighted the significance of the donation.
“We are indeed grateful as representatives of the people to be part of this noble gathering in the holy month of Ramadan. This initiative will support vulnerable communities in the Upper River Region (URR), and we consider it one of the most important engagements during this blessed month,” he stated.
Ceesay, however, acknowledged the longstanding partnership between VDF and the council, saying while the foundation has collaborated with the council for years, this was his first direct experience witnessing its impact.
Chairman Ceesay called on all to ensure that the aid reaches the intended beneficiaries, further emphasizing the role of the Council’s development committees.
“As a Council, we will engage our development committees to distribute the sugar transparently and fairly. With over 367 communities in URR, not everyone will benefit, but we will prioritize the most vulnerable. It is also a requirement that every beneficiary receiving a 10-kilo bag of sugar must be properly documented for accountability purposes,” he assured.
To this end, he reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to transparency and accountability, saying these principles guide their work, and that they will ensure that all aid is delivered accordingly.
Hon. Saihou Jawara, chairperson of Kuntaur Area Council, while receiving the items on behalf of Central River Region North, described the gesture as an annual tradition.
“Every Ramadan, the CEO of VDF provides sugar for distribution in CRR North, and we deeply appreciate this gesture. We pray that the foundation continues to grow and benefit not only our region but the entire country,” he said.
Hon. Jawara underscored the significance of the donation, particularly for CRR-North, assuring that it would go a long way in lessen the burden on families.
“As you can see, most of our people no longer need to buy sugar because of this generosity. It has had a tremendous impact on our community, and we pray for its continuity,” he said.
The distribution strategy, he added, would focus on the most remote and vulnerable communities. “CRR North has 342 villages and while we cannot reach everyone, we will ensure that the most vulnerable receive their fair share,” he added.
