His Excellency President Sheikh Professor Alhaji Dr. Yahya Jammeh has called on senior civil servants to treat their subordinates fairly and with respect, for a conducive working environment. The President made the remarks Monday during the swearing-in ceremony of the new Secretary General and Head of Civil Service Dr Njogou L. Bah, and the acting Secretary to Cabinet Ebrima O. Camara. President Jammeh mentioned the need for hard work and sincerity in the civil service, and reaffirmed his commitment to develop the Gambia.

The Gambian leader spoke of the plans to rehabilitate government offices and build a super ministry building to seven ministries in a bid to cut down rent expenditure. The Gambian leader also seized the occasion to announce the celebration of the 3rd anniversary of the Presidents Medical Treatment Program, slated for 17th January 2010 in Kanilai.

The Vice President Aja Dr. Isatou Njie-Saidy on her part expressed hope that the new appointees will live up to expectations, citing their track records as examples of their dedication to national development. She called for concerted efforts on the part of civil servants for the realization of vision 2020, adding that the civil service has transformed since 1994.

The Secretary General and Head of Civil Service Dr Njogou L. Bah thanked President Jammeh for the trust and confidence bestowed on him and promised to live up to expectations. Dr. Bah also spoke of the need for a robust civil service coupled with dedication, honesty, and selflessness.

The Minister of Interior Ousman Sonko lauded President Jammeh's efforts to motivate civil servants citing the recently 20% salary increment announced by the President. The Minister of Foreign Affairs Ousman Jammeh urged his fellow cabinet colleagues to work diligently and selflessly for national development.

US$3 Million for GRTS Satellite Project

In a separate engagement the Taiwanese Ambassador to The Gambia Richard Shih paid a courtesy call on President Jammeh at State House. Speaking to reporters after his meeting with the President, Ambassador Shih said he presented a cheque for 3 million US Dollars to the Gambian leader as part of Taiwan's contribution to government's development programmes. He disclosed that the money is earmarked for the GRTS Satellite Project.