A political movement aims at combating tribalism in The Gambia is expected to be launched before the end of 2020.

The man behind the anti-tribalism movement, Kebba Ceesay, 54, said “The Gambia is one family and one tribe. In each family there are various tribes due to marriage and settlement and other forms of association such as friendship or being colleagues.

“No family is composed of only a single tribe. Every family has other tribes who came in as wives or husbands and therefore their children have aunts, uncles and cousins from other tribes.”

Mr Ceesay described tribalism as “corruption and discrimination intended to perpetuate exploitation and oppression”, adding “tribalism does not mean love for your tribe rather it is a threat to tribes.”

He said: “Tribal politics has severely polarized our society; we are blaming one another. We cannot make progress and everyone is complaining. We insult each other on WhatsApp forums and on social media in general to no use.

“Tribal politics does not help any tribe rather it helps only the politicians and public officials to get power, resources and privileges. 

“Politicians are in the habit to sing the songs of tribe to confuse their people they will say the issue is about tribe, when it is not.” 

According to him, tribalism is “anti-religion and anti-God” saying “God did not create tribes to hate one another, believers in Allah cannot be tribalist.”

He urged pollical parties to always preach peace and advocate love among Gambians.

He said “Tribalism takes place mainly in politics”, adding that “it does not take place in the social and cultural area, otherwise there will be no intermarriage or living together in the country.”

Mr Ceesay said “tribalism only harms the nation, delay national progress and injure our national unity.”

He also called on all Gambians to unite and support the movement in maintaining peace and stability.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba