Ousainou Darboe, leader of the United Democratic Party (UDP), has launched a food bank initiative to help the poor and vulnerable” during the country’s coronavirus lockdown.

The opposition leader said he had received “overwhelming support” from Gambians who had made donations to his food bank project.

Mr Darboe tweeted last night “It is my pleasure and honour to express my heartfelt gratitude to the overwhelming show of support to my food bank initiative. Gambians are caring people and we have collectively embraced the notion of being our brothers and sisters keeper.

“Covid19 has rendered many heads of household immobile thus making it difficult for them to feed their dependents. My Food Bank Drive will compliment the efforts of other philanthropists in alleviating the hardship felt by the poor and vulnerable in our society. 

“To this effect, I have constituted an advisory board that will facilitate the seamless transfer of funds and donated commodities from my Food Bank Drive to the respective local government authorities. The composition of the board is apolitical and non partisan. 

“Men and woman of irrefutable character and standing in society have been identified to spearhead the daunting task of facilitating the delivery of the funds and commodities donated.”