Ismaila Sambou, secretary of state for Local Government, Lands and Religious Affairs and Alhaji Demba Sanyang, the paramount chief of The Gambia, last Sunday, commenced a five-day tour of all the regions of the country, accompanied by a high powered delegation.

The paramount chief told the Daily Observer, shortly before their departure, that the objective of the tour is to meet chiefs and local authorities including alkalolu, family heads, and religious leaders to discuss how best to restore the traditional norms of chieftancy.

The paramount chief further pointed out that the tour aims at bring back bring traditional norms in resolving disputes, which according to him, will reduce the burden on the district tribunals. He emphasised that it is through dialogue that one can bring about peace, which according to him is the ultimate aim of the National Council of Chiefs.

He thanked President Alhaji Dr Yahya Jammeh for introducing the first-ever paramount chief in the history of The Gambia, which he stated will ensure unity and peace among people.

Lamin SY Queen Jammeh, the chief of Upper Niumi, who also doubles as the secretary-general of the National Council of Chiefs, said that the move is a step in the right direction.