Mamadi Kurang, former secretary of the Janneh Commission, has told a parliamentary inquiry that he only became involved with wildlife officials after being directed to act following reports of starving hyenas at former President Yahya Jammeh’s Kanilai estate.

Kurang appeared before the National Assembly’s seven-member select committee investigating the disposal of assets seized from the Jammeh regime.

He explained that his contact with wildlife officials came only after commissioners visited Kanilai and raised concerns about the welfare of the animals.

Reflecting on the situation, Kurang said: “I only remembered after a visit by the commissioners to Kanilai. There was concern for some of the wildlife because the hyenas were starving. And I remembered I was asked to make contacts so that somebody could take care of the hyenas. The problem was most of the hyenas there were starving.”

Jammeh’s home village and private compound during his 22-year rule, was known for its private zoo housing lions, hyenas, crocodiles, and other exotic animals.

After Jammeh fled into exile in 2017, many of these animals were reportedly abandoned, sparking concern among locals and conservationists.

Mr Kurang’s testimony highlights some of the challenges faced by the Barrow administration in managing the large portfolio of confiscated assets, including farms, vehicles, properties, and the unexpected responsibility for wildlife welfare.

The ongoing parliamentary investigation aims to shed light on alleged irregularities in the sale of Jammeh-era assets.

The Janneh Commission uncovered more than $360 million in illicit funds amassed by Jammeh during his presidency.

President Adama Barrow has pledged transparency and accountability, promising that anyone implicated in wrongdoing will be held to account.

By Adama Makasuba