After four good years of dedicated services in The Gambia, Jean Michel Kauffman, has been redeployed to the remote French Guyana, in Latin America.

Back to his place of origin, the former Director of Alliance Franco-Gambienne (AFG), has already found a job as a high school principal. But before leaving the country, a garden party was held, last Tuesday, in the premises of AFG, in order to pay homage to someone who has been instrumental in putting cultural activities at the centre stage of the development process.

From the beginning to the end of the reception, there were lots of good complements about Jean Michel Kauffman’s immense support to Gambian artists, musicians, cultural groups etc.

Michel Imbert, Director of the French Technical Assistance, expressed his gratitude to a man who has helped him upon his arrival in The Gambia. ‘‘I benefited a lot from his wide experience in Africa’’, he confessed.

In a similar vein, Angèle Badjan, Private Secretary at AFG, outlined the prominent role played by Kauffman in turning the institution into the epicentre of cultural activities. ‘‘During his tenure, we all witnessed the tremendous improvements in terms programmes designing’’, she said. According to her, AFG has doubled in value during the last past four years, noting that the success can be credited to their former boss.

Media consultant, Lamin Manga described him as a man of foresight who within a short period, contributed prodigiously in promoting arts and culture.  ‘‘The Gambia will remember him for all what he did’’, he indicated in a pathtetic tone.

In spite of the poignant moment, members of the Gambia Musicians Association (GAMMA), were on stage. A jazzy atmosphere which provided them the opportunity to award a Certificate of Appreciation to the outgoing Director. Solomelo, president of the said association, extoled him for making AFG a suitable place to every artist.