Africa-Press – Gambia. Alagie Mbaye, the Alkalo of Daru Mbayen in the Central River Region, has appealed to President Adama Barrow for the provision of electricity and improved healthcare services during a “Meet the People Tour” stop in the village on 12 November 2025.
Speaking at the gathering, the Alkalo highlighted the community’s continued lack of electricity, noting that residents have not been informed of any plans for future installation. He further emphasized the urgent need for a health facility, explaining that women must travel long distances to access maternal and nursing care, often transported on donkey carts in emergency situations.
“These are the difficulties we face, and we want the president to help us,” Alkalo Mbaye said.
He also requested a grinding machine and support for renovating the village’s grain store. Despite the challenges, the Alkalo expressed gratitude for development initiatives already brought to the community, including the construction of a mosque, a garden, and the provision of clean water.
Responding to the concerns, Hamat N.K. Bah, Minister of Lands, Regional Government, and Religious Affairs, acknowledged the requests but cautioned that building a hospital is a significant undertaking. He noted that even advanced nations do not have hospitals in every locality.
Minister Bah explained that President Barrow’s administration has provided community ambulances to ease access to existing health facilities. He stated that while constructing a full hospital may not be feasible, the village could request a health post through the Ministry of Health. He added that the government is currently constructing a major hospital in a nearby village, which will serve Daru Mbayen and the surrounding communities.
The minister further assured the Alkalo that a grinding machine would be provided, advising the village leaders to coordinate with the regional governor. On the issue of renovating the village magazine, he encouraged community members to contribute: “There are things we must do on our own,” he said.
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