Families of Gambian World War II veterans are renewing demands for compensation and justice, as the country marks 80 years since the end of the conflict.

The Family Association of Gambian World War II Veterans, which represents more than 400 members,  including widows, children and grandchildren of those who served, says veterans and their families have been denied the support they deserve for decades.

At the centre of their concern is the management of a UK government fund meant to support vulnerable Commonwealth veterans.

Between April 2019 and March 2024, the British government committed £11.8m in charitable aid to veterans in 29 Commonwealth nations, including The Gambia.

The funds, administered by the Royal Commonwealth Ex-Services League (RCEL) in partnership with the Gambia Legion, were intended for veterans who served the British Crown before independence, or their eligible widows.

But the association claims there has been little transparency in how the funds have been allocated locally.

“The people responsible for managing the Gambia Legion have failed in reaching out to the rightful beneficiaries,” it said in a statement.

The association is now calling on the British Embassy in Banjul, the Gambian Ministry of Defence, the National Assembly, the National Human Rights Commission and the Gambia Legion to take urgent action.

Historian Hasum Ceesay said 4,450 Gambians were conscripted during World War II,  3,750 in the army and 600 in the Royal Air Force. At least 126 Gambians who served are buried in Mboma.

He said returning veterans were celebrated as national heroes, with the first ship of returnees welcomed at MacCarthy Square in February 1946. Many went on to become the country’s first professional drivers and played key roles in national development.

Falli Kora, a supporter of the association, stressed the need for public education.

“The association exists across the country, not just in urban areas,” he said.

“The British government provides support, but most families of veterans are unaware of it. We want to enlighten them and ensure their rights are respected.”

The association has vowed to continue its campaign for recognition, justice and full compensation for Gambian veterans and their families.

By Adama Makasuba