BRIKAMA AREA COUNCIL HOLDS GENERAL COUNCIL SITTINGS
By Sarata Ceesay (Brikama Area Council Observer)
On Thursday, February 27, 2025, the Brikama Area Council conducted its latest General Council Sitting at the Council Chambers. The meeting brought together ward councillors and officials for a day of significant deliberations. The session was presided over by the Deputy Chairperson and focused on various development, financial, and administrative matters that directly affect communities across the West Coast Region.
The atmosphere in the chamber was concentrated and collaborative as members began with opening prayers before moving swiftly into the day’s agenda. The session underscored ongoing concerns as well as new developments, ranging from council finances to grassroots-level challenges.
A major point of discussion was the financial status of the Council. The Director of Finance reported that GMD 10 Million is paid to Espace Motors in two instalments, drawn directly from council funds instead of the previously considered loan arrangement. This shift ignited conversations about the need for transparency and better financial planning, as councilors’ called for clearer follow-up on prior resolutions.
Another focus was the status of the Council multiple bank accounts. As of the meeting, the Council maintained a combined balance of just over GMD 20.5 million across seven banks. However, there were concerns about the continued existence of the Ajib Bank account, which councilors had previously agreed that it should be closed. The Council reaffirmed its decision and instructed the Office of the CEO to facilitate the closure and withdrawal of funds before the next meeting.
Community development was also a key topic of discussion. The Internal Audit Unit has begun inspecting ward-level projects as part of the preparations for disbursing the 2025 Ward Development Fund. Councillors were reminded to submit all necessary documents to support the audit process, which aims to ensure accountability in the use of public resources.
Meanwhile, tensions persist in the coastal community of Tanji, where the formalization of a Village Development Committee remains unresolved. Reports indicate that Alkalo’s lawyer has issued legal warnings to citizens engaging in unofficial actions. The Council has promised to consult with legal advisers to determine the best way forward.
In another development, the Brikama Sandika—a key local market—may soon undergo changes. A proposal by the Management Committee to construct a new structure is currently under review. The council has referred the matter to its Contracts Committee, which has offered preliminary endorsement of a 70:30 partnership model for the project.
Councillors also took the opportunity to streamline communication channels. A consensus was made that community requests for support must be submitted through their respective ward councillors to ensure proper coordination and documentation.
As the session concluded, there was a shared sense of progress and responsibility among the members. The motion to adjourn was move and seconded without objection, closing a day characterized by transparency, challenging discussions, and a collective commitment to community service.
For the people of the West Coast Region, this sitting served as a reminder that local governance is not just about policies—it’s about people, priorities, and purposeful action.
