MANSAKONKO AREA COUNCIL MEETING – 15TH APRIL 2025
By Muhammed K Fatty (MAC Observer)
Opening:
The meeting opened with prayers. Chairman Landing B. Sanneh welcomed attendees. Apology noted from Councillor Momodou Saidybah. The agenda was read and adopted.
Agenda 1: Review of Previous Minutes
Councillor Saidykhan inquired about rental documents for Supersonicz, Sulayman Fatty, and APS. Acting CEO Marri said only Sulayman Fatty was engaged. Finance Manager Jagne reported APS settled payments; Supersonicz owes D50,000.
The chairman said Supersonicz missed two years’ payment. Admin Director Kinteh stated that no documentation exists.
Councillor Sowe queried canteen allocations at the new market. The acting CEO cited training; the Admin Director said allocation should’ve occurred earlier.
Councillors stressed the need for accountability and timely action.
The chairman emphasized investigating canteen subletting and prioritizing Gambian entrepreneurs.
Action Point: Complete Soma Sare Maudo market canteen allocations.
Deployment of Kaddy Ndow Sanneh as Records Officer confirmed by Admin Director.
Inquiry on Sirah Sabally as finance subcommittee chair – Chairman clarified he can’t appoint.
CEO reported that D270,000 was paid for the NAYCOFN loan.
Sowe urged the Finance Director to vacate the centre; the CEO said relocation is in process.
Action Point: Finance Director to vacate centre before next meeting.
The council has five accounts but faces financial constraints.
The chairman called for strategic planning. The Finance Manager said D11 million in demand notes need follow-up.
Ousman Manka and Buba Sowe’s issue was resolved; the Ombudsman followed up on Sowe’s benefits.
The chairman emphasized better revenue collection with newly assigned motorcycles.
Agenda 2: Chairman’s Report
Participated in YEP2 launch; MKAC Hospitality Training Centre to benefit through training and grants.
Discussed legal retainer with LS Camara.
Mansakonko Area Council Convenes to Address Key Development and Financial Issues
April 15, 2025 – Mansakonko, LRR
The Mansakonko Area Council (MKAC) held its General Council meeting, chaired by Hon. Landing B. Sanneh, to address ongoing administrative, financial, and development matters.
Top Concerns:
Market Rentals: Councilors raised concerns over missing agreements with Supersonicz, Sulayman Fatty, and APS. Supersonicz owes D50,000. The Chairman urged all tenants to continue payments.
Canteen Delays: Soma Market allocations have been delayed for over three years. Councillors demanded urgent action.
Action: Complete Soma Sare Maudo canteen allocations immediately.
Financial Updates:
D270,000 has been repaid on the NAYCOFN loan.
The Council holds five accounts but struggles financially.
D11 million in demand notes are pending; Council urged follow-ups.
Six motorcycles for revenue collectors were secured via a loan with Supersonicz, with the centre used as collateral.
Staff & Logistics:
Staff redeployments were confirmed.
The Finance Director must vacate the central office to cut rental costs.
Plans to buy a pickup vehicle for the Chairman were delayed due to procurement challenges.
Development Reports: Councilors shared updates on local projects, including boreholes, mosque constructions, farming support, and medical donations. A new UNCDF youth and women empowerment pilot was announced for Kiang Banta, Julafarr, and Jiroff.
Action: Introduce a reporting template to streamline future meetings.
Transparency & Conduct: Concerns were raised over project funds being kept in personal accounts. The Chairman emphasized that ward accounts should be used. He also called for greater respect during meetings, warning against rising tensions.
The meeting adjourned until further notice.
