Foday maintained his faith throughout, there were times when I doubted, but there is something un put downable about Gambians, when their cause is right - no obstacle can move, destroy or divert their belief that the goal is achievable and Fo was convinced that Dardeema would be the home GTS for the next few years.

On the first of December 2001 - GTS Dardeema opened officially, we had staff there for a few days before, we ironed out most of the major problems before we opened - but we never expected the water to be cut off for two whole days! We had a generator - but we never expected to have to run it for over 200 hours during our first 8 weeks.

We never expected 150 applicants for 12 jobs, never expected staff refusing to have a day off, never expected a £20 tip from a customer who used us everyday of his holiday, never expected . . . etc etc . .

Running a restaurant is a funny business as we have all found out.

The aim of GTS was always to be a sustainable self funding charity, earning enough money to pay staff, all the running costs and have enough to support the charity work that we have dreamed of. We think that GTS is the only charity in The Gambia that mainly funds itself by providing services that customers pay for.

GTS has several 100 members and supporters, their membership fees and donations along with the profits from Dardeema support a growing number of Gambian children through their schooling as well as 4 Gambian schools. GTS currently employs 16 Gambians and provides a gallery venue for 10 artists and soon a venue for up and coming musicians, as well as a show case for cultural events.

No other restaurant has the mix of ordinary Gambians and tourists that Dardeema has. Locals are welcomed to eat their own local dishes at 10D (about 40p) and Europeans can eat excellent European food from £3.00 upwards. There is no hassle, all the people are there to enjoy the food and ice cold drinks.

The GTS office, has a growing display of the work that GTS is doing in Gambia, as well as resources for members using GTS hosts to see the country.

The results have been incredible, more members joining, more visitors to the web site, more sponsors wanting to help the education of young Gambians.

You don't have to be a member to enjoy a meal at Dardeema's just arrive anytime from Breakfast to late at night and choose from an extensive menu - Incidentally Dardeema means 'Good Price' and we provide the best food at the best prices in the holiday area and still support a charity from the proceeds.