Muhammed Jah, chief executive officer (CEO) of QCell, the newest entrant into The Gambia's GSM industry, yesterday presented samples of the products of his company to The Gambian leader, His Excellency Sheikh Professor Alhaji Dr Yahya Jammeh, at State House in Banjul.

The items included some 3G (3rd Generation) mobile phones and flash drives, all bearing the QCell brands. The flash drives will enable a user to access the internet through the network of QuantumNet, a technology outfit owned by Muhammed Jah. One of The Gambia's most distinguished and respected businessmen, Muhammed Jah also presented a letter of appreciation to The Gambian leader for the heartening interest the president showed them during the establishment of the GSM company, as well as an application letter, requesting for the inclusion of the opening of QCell as part of the July 22nd Revolution celebrations. Jah also presented a 4-wheel drive saloon car and a maple Benz as well as some room air conditioners to President Jammeh.

Speaking at the occasion, President Jammeh commended Muhammed Jah for coming up with such advanced technology in the country, describing it as a shining example of the endless possibilities of providing a new and enabling electronic environment. He expressed pride that today, h QuantumNet is a household name, rejoicing at the fact that it came into existence during his tenure of office as president.

The Gambian leader praised Jah for his vision of putting the country among the most advanced developing countries. For The Gambia to be the second country to attain such technological advancement in Africa, the president observed, is indeed a laudable achievement, adding that the 3rd Generation mobile phone facilities are not available even in many European countries. According to the Professor Jammeh, Muhammed Jah does not only have internet providing facilities, but he also has a school where Gambians learn technology.

"If Gambians had earlier on listened to my messages as Jah did, we would have had many companies in the country which will be operating in diverse areas," he said. He added: "These are the type of people we are in need of - to showcase the country in terms of achieving its aims." The Gambian leader then assured the QCell CEO of his government's support at all times, while urging him to peg all his hopes on Allah (the Almighty) alone. "Be focused and do not allow people to distract you," he concluded.

For his part, Muhammed Jah thanked the Gambian leader for the support he has accorded him over the past years. He disclosed that the 3G technology will enable internet access with a flash drive and Sim card countrywide. Jah further disclosed that he is currently employing four hundred Gambians who are working tirelessly with him to accomplish his targets for the country. Sheriff Gomez, minister of Youth and Sports, described Muhammed Jah as an agent of change and an exemplary person worthy of emulation. To him, Jah is a true citizen of the country and a catalyst of President Jammeh's development ideas.

Minister Gomez observed that GSM companies can play crucial roles in promoting investment and business in a country through the potential of their technologies. He commended the QCell boss and urged him to be courageous at all times. Dr Omar Touray, minister for Foreign Affairs and Gambians Abroad, also applauded the Gambian entrepreneur, saying his story demonstrates how President Jammeh has paved the way for an enabling environment in the country.