Saikou Jabbi is 17 years old, 18 in November, and responsible for his 4 younger siblings. His youngest sibling is 5 years old.

Saikou and his siblings live in the city of Banjul, The Gambia. They currently often sleep in the street, eat scraps or go without food. This is unless someone reaches out to them with a small donation. Saikou feels guilty as he knows his younger siblings rely on his care.

Saikou’s message is that he does not want to rely on others anymore. He wants to become independent and develop a sustainable and long term solution to support himself and his family.

Saikou has a business plan. This includes buying a cargo motor tricycle for a price of 130,000 GMD. His business plan would allow him to rent a room permanently and pay for food for himself and his young siblings as well as buy what they would need to go to school.

Saikou has considered the cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, his customers and supporting his family to eat and rent a room during the first months of business.

Saikou said: “I could start my own business here and support my family here. This would be a true blessing, it would allow us to live independently and build a better future here”

My name is Kalisha, I’m a mental health worker living in the UK. I will ensure all the money raised goes to Saikou and his family.

Thank you for your solidarity, kindness and support.