The Gambia Organisation of the Visually Impaired (GOVI), on Monday March 26, received cash assistance from its long-time friends - GOVI-UK and the Free Mason District Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone.

GOVI UK donated D40, 000, while Free Mason District Guard Lodge donated US$500 at a presentation held at the GOVI Resource Centre in Kanifing.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony, the Executive Director of GOVI, Mamout M. Touray, described the occasion as a milestone in the history of the organisation. He revealed that it is only through such gestures that the organisation is able to survive as it renders a lot of assistance, through donations received from philanthropists.

He lauded the donors for the gesture and assured them that the funds would be properly utilised.

For his part, the District Grand Master of Sierra Leone, Dr Victor R Willonghby, revealed that their main mission is to offer charity to the disabled persons, and then noted that they will be willing to support projects carried out by GOVI. “Anytime you need assistance, like doctors, and personnel, you can always contact us for assistance”, he urged.

The Sierra Leonian High Commissioner to The Gambia, Mr. Muhammed Foday Yumkella, who also spoke at the presentation, revealed that the donors (Free Mason District Guard Lodge) represent Sierra leone and that the donation is a manifestation of the friendship between The Gambia and Sierra Leone.

Lamin Saidy, a representative of GOVI-UK also spoke at the ceremony. Muhammed Kora, GOVI Chairman delivered the vote of thanks.