On the occasion of the 14th anniversary of the July 22nd Revolution, four Gambian journalists have been conferred with national honours for their contributions to the development of the country.

Pap Saine, the managing director and co-proprietor of The Point newspaper, Kebba Dibba, a senior manager at GRTS (TV), Serign Faye, the head of Radio Programs at GRTS and Swaebou Conateh, the publisher of the Gambia News & Report Magazine, were conferred with the insignia of the National Order by President Alhaji Dr Yahya Jammeh.

The recipients have exemplary records in the field of journalism. The awards also prove that the journalists have established themselves well in the media industry and are professionally tackling key issues of public interest.

Reacting to this new development, Pap Saine, the managing director of The Point, said: ‘‘I feel honoured by the president. I think this constitutes a big boost to not only my media house, but also to the entire media fraternity. I thank President Jammeh for the confidence and high regard bestowed on me.’’

An overwhelmed Kebba Dibba told the Daily Observer that he believes that there is no greater honour than doing a job for “your people that they, in turn, recognise”.

“It is a great reward from the highest authority in the country. But I must admit that this also opens new challenges for us,’’ he said in an optimistic tone.

Other awardees included Hon Fatoumata Jahumpa-Ceesay, the speaker of the National Assembly, Buba Sanyang, the acting director general of the Immigration Services, IGP Ensa Badjie and Commissioner Jammeh Konta of the Gambia Police Force.