Email Gambia News to a friend
Print version
Comment on This Gambia News

Gambia News: The Carnegie Affair - Did The Government Make A Bad Deal?

Many Gambians were surprised when they learnt that the government had revoked the licence of a mining company. Many learnt for the first time that a mining company had been operating in the country.

Many have wondered why the whole transaction and operation had been shrouded in so much secrecy that even those living in the urban area were not aware that a company that has mined more than 20,000 tonnes of materials has been operating right under of our nose.

The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs alluded to a regrettable deal and showed dissatisfaction with the $50 per tonne paid by the company. President Jammeh, in a televised broadcast, expressed his dissatisfaction more directly. He indicated that the $50 paid per tonne was too small and did not accept the claim of the company that price of a tonne is $150. He pointed out that the price of a tonne of titanium in the world market is over $2000.

The question that arises is, did the government make a bad deal and regretted signing an agreement that puts it at a disadvantage? Did it seek professional advice before signing the deal or did the government representatives sign as mediocres? Why was the secrecy? Was there something to hide? There is need for clarification.

Foroyaa has continued to attempt to talk to either the Secretary of State for Information or the Secretary of State for Works and Construction. So far they have not yet been accessible. As soon as we succeed, we will furnish our readers with their views.