By Arfang M.S. Camara
The Gambia Bankers Association has today presented D3 million (three million dalasis) to the government as part of their contribution to the fight against COVID-19.
The gesture which is also part of bankers social cooperate responsibility is meant to support the health ministry and the eight regions of the municipalities in the country.
Speaking on behalf of the Bankers Association during the presentation ceremony at State House, Ayo Kunle, a member of the association said that as members of the private sector, particularly banks cannot keep quiet and see things going without doing anything about it.
“We have come together as an association to support and partner with government. We have brought a token as an appreciation to the president for all the efforts he has taken and for all the directives he has given to us as citizens working and living in The Gambia and want to thank the government for all that they are doing in keeping the land safe,” he said.
He went to assured that their association will continue to support the effort of the government to make sure that government fight against the spread of covid-19 in Gambia.
“We also want to make ourselves available to always be there anytime the government needs us can call upon us to support and do the work of governance”.
While Receiving the cheque on behalf of government, Dr Isatou Touray, Vice President of The Gambia thanked the bankers association for the gesture, noting that the fight against coronavirus is a big one that comes with implications.
VP Touray noted that this support is the beginning of many that they (government) are expecting to see.
“It’s a big fight that has health, socio-economic and political implications. There is no doubt that no any country or any government can do it alone. We are ready to work with partners, institutions, organisations and philanthropists to move towards fighting this serious disease that is touching the whole world,” she said.
She added that: “We are not an island and we know what the already developed and robust systems are facing much more The Gambia who is also facing the same problem like other countries. We have a lot of work today, we all know the implications of resources to fight this battle both financial, technical and all source of supports that is needed,” he buttressed.
She went on behalf of government to assured that the money donated will be put into good use.