Mustapha Jallow and Fatoumata Jallow Members of the newly elected executive of the Gambia Press Union (GPU) yesterday, 2 June, 2015 visited the Foroyaa office as part of courtesy calls on the various media houses. The delegation comprising Mr. Saikou Jammeh, Secretary General, Mr. Momodou Kanteh, Mr. Lamin Jahateh, Treasurer, and Mr. Abdoulie Nget, Asssistant Secretary General, were received on arrival by Mr. Sam Sarr, Managing Editor, Mr. Ousman Sillah, Editor and other Foroyaa reporters. Introducing their mission, Mr. Jammeh expressed their appreciation for the longstanding support Foroyaa has been giving to GPU and discusses issues of mutual concern. He noted the apologies of some executive members such as the President for being unable to be with them, as the latter travelled. He highlighted many issues which they are concern about and solicited for the cooperation of media houses for their realization. These include training, GPU School of Journalism, membership subscription, dialogue with authorities, credit union, subvention from media houses, among other pertinent issues. The other GPU executive members also took turns to elaborate on these issues of concern. Responding to the issues raised, Mr. Sarr, the Foroyaa Managing Editor, acknowledged the initiative and renewed their commitment for continued support to GPU. He indicated the need for support to the GPU School, adding that the present reality in The Gambia has shown that journalists with diplomas are likely to work for the media than degree holders. He suggests that the Union can undertake capacity building projects such as the UNDEF to support media houses to replenish their aging equipment and to engage government to introduce tax waivers for media related materials and equipment such as was the case during the colonial period. He advised the executive to ensure transparency and involvement of the membership at all times. He promised that Foroyaa will positively respond to all the issues raised by the GPU executive committee. Mr. Sillah also expressed appreciation for the visit and pledged their full support to the GPU to ensure that there is quality journalism and that the welfare of journalists is fully addressed. He wished the new executive a successful tenure in office. ]]>
