13th May 2003:

The President of the Republic, His Excellency Alhagi Dr. Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh has said that Islam is a religion of tolerance and peace. The President was speaking in native Kanilai on Saturday where he officially opened the second Gambian African Cultural Festival. President Jammeh condemned those who hide behind Islam to commit acts of terrorism against humanity. The President labeled those who use Islam to promote their hate "roguish bad elements." It is because of such people according to the first citizen, that "other people today misjudge the totality of Muslims of the activities of those elements." The Gambian Commander-in-Chief went on to emphasize that culture and its promotion are vital to socio-economic development and global harmony. "If people understand what culture is about, it would be able to teach them well and help distinguish the bad elements and good elements as without world peace, there cannot be development," the President maintained. President Jammeh went to say that without an understanding of each other's culture, there cannot be "mutual respect," which accordingly is a prerequisite to world peace, a cause that this 37 year old is known to champion. The Gambian leader said the world's problems are a result of intolerance and misunderstanding. Cultural understanding according to Jammeh, will promote peace and global stability.

Speaking on the importance of the festival, the charismatic Gambian leader said it was to showcase the common African Culture. The President down played the association of cannibalism with African Culture, stating Cannibalism was not an African adjective. However the President went on: " but in every society, there are people who will do things in their own interest and hide behind culture." In inviting the many thousands that made their way to this tiny village, the President called on all participants to display their mystical powers. " If you can swim without water you are welcome to do so" the President concluded. The highlight of the opening ceremony came by way of Bamako with Mali's traditional hunters and music diva Oumie Sankareh. The hunters brought to tour a tiger, which was tamed through mystical powers. As for Oumie Sankareh, whatever she sang in her native tongue Bambara, she made other divas look like amateurs. Alongside troupes from the Gambia, several West African countries are competing. The festival ends next Saturday.

The famous Frankey Paul performing

Malian traditional hunters manifesting their superficial powers