The Gambia, known for its rich heritage and cultural
diversity, is a magnet to tourists seeking to escape the harsh winter weather
and stretch out on tranquil beaches and enjoy the warmth provided by the sun
and friendly people.
The beginning of tourism in the Gambia can be traced
as far back as the mid-1960s, shortly after the country gained independence
from Britain.
Reliable accounts have it that tourism in The Gambia
started by accident when a Swedish gentleman called Bertil Harding, who was
travelling from Northern Senegal to the Northern part of the neighbouring
country, lost his bearing and drove towards Banjul.
Harding, according to accounts, was amazed by the
beautiful coastline and the friendly people, and as a result, decided to stay
for a couple of days, thus marking the discovery of the popular tourist
destination that would later assume the name “the smiling coast of Africa”.
Samba Batch Faye, Board Chairman of the Gambia Tourism
Board, and Sheikh Tijan Nyang, Head of the Institute of Travel and Tourism of
the Gambia, both confirmed that was what set off the development of tourism in
the Gambia and led to a steady increase in the number of visitors as “tourism
came to the Gambia” instead of the Gambia “going to find it.”
"He was driving to Casamance to go to Cap Skirring
and other places. In our conversation when he was alive, he said he drove
overnight until in the morning, he saw Denton Bridge, then he said, well, I
don't think I am in Casamance; I must be in the Gambia. Instead of turning
around and finding his way to Casamance, he said, "Let me just go in and
find out what Gambia is like," Samba Batch, Chairman of Gambia Tourism
Board, said.
By the late 1970s and 1980s, the Gambia had
established itself as a prime tourist destination, and with an increasing
number of hotels and resorts lining the coast and a surge in the number of
tourists, the need for increased investments became apparent, effectively
drawing in Swedish and European investors
Initially, the structures that were used to
accommodate tourists were not custom-built. However, what followed were proper
hotels built by foreign investors in tandem with the Gambia government, which
at the time saw the huge potential that existed when the Gambian tourism
development was in its infancy stage.
"There was only one hotel & that was the
Atlantic Hotel. He went and checked in at the Atlantic Hotel. In the morning,
he walked around the beach. That time Atlantic Beach was at least 100 meters of
white sand on the beach as opposed to its current state.”
“He walked around and found only a few people. By
then, people were not keen on going to the beach. All that they were interested
in was going through the wharves and fishing for crabs. And he said,
"Well, this seems to be a nice place. Let me stay for a few more days,”
the GT-Board chair added.
With the rise of tourism, the demand for well-trained
staff to work in hotels and restaurants and serve as tour guides became
necessary. Then, emerged Gambia Hotel School, which was later upgraded and
renamed "Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute".
Others, like the Institute of Travel and Tourism in
the Gambia, were born to cater for the ever-increasing need for trained human
resources and seasoned professionals.
Sheikh Tijan Nyang, a veteran in the tourism sector,
who saw it and witnessed the evolution, weighs in on the gains made by the
sector
"It came in as an accidental industry that had no
policies that would guide it to where it is today. As a result of it, the
government thought it wise and had key people in key positions. People who were
knowledgeable and they thought it is good to look at good examples.”
“If I remember talking to the late Tom Senghore, he
and the late Tapha Sosseh were permanent secretaries at various ministries.
They went to Kenya from what I gathered from Tom Senghore. They did a case
study in Kenya as to how it developed to where it is today, and they came and
wrote a report. After that, the Bafuloto studies form the basis of our tourism
development," said Sheikh Tijan Nyang.
The Bafuloto studies were designed to understand
traditional Gambian society and to unearth the hidden potential of community
tourism. Now, with stiff competition, Nyang believes the sector needs urgent
reforms and more investments in eco - and community-based tourism to ensure
sustainability.
"We have developed, but we also have a series of
challenges that we need to address. Most of the countries in the sub-region do
not operate the same system as we do. We depend entirely on package stores.”
“The industry is seasonal, and it starts from October
to April, and that's where it ends. We have been operating in this system since
the inception of tourism, and I think we have seen it gradually
diminishing." Nyang stated.
Tourism is one of the sectors that help the Gambia maintain a level of buoyancy, but with many destinations seeking to outdo or attract tourists from the same source markets, there is a need to return to the drawing board to reposition and repackage Gambian Tourism so it can continue to attract tourists from across the world.
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As the world commemorates the 2025 International Women's Day, we examine the silent struggle many Gambian women face. The mental health challenges that are often hidden behind the pressures of daily life. From the isolation of postpartum depression to the scars left by gender-based violence. Women continue to fight secret battles. Yet, in a society where emotional vulnerability is seen as a weakness, they continue to endure in silence. In this piece, we dig deep into their struggles and narrate their experiences as they break the silence. We engage experts on what could be done for the many women fighting battles in their matrimonial homes. What truly needs to be done - a question for all to respond to.THE CHALLENGE Mental health remains a taboo topic in the country, especially for women, who are expected to be resilient caretakers while managing work, family, and societal expectations. For many, the burden becomes too heavy to carry alone but women facing monumentally disparaging conditions often struggle in silence.We visited Fatou Mbaye at Serrekunda, a mother of four who is a local food vendor. She said waking up at 5 a.m. is a daily routine, no matter how tired she might be.She rushes to the market, navigating the chaos to buy ingredients for the breakfast she sells to make ends meet and boost the family's income. It's a never-ending pressure, with scorching heat weighing her down as she stirs pots to serve customers and answer the endless calls of her four children. The weight of a wife, mother, and local food vendor is a crushing responsibility, yet no one sees the cracks forming beneath her forced smile.In anxiety, her mind constantly spinning with ‘worry over how to keep going’, in a society where women are expected to be strong, resilient, and silent. And for her, it's a matter of finding a way to survive it.‘After preparing the breakfast I sell, I bathe my children and get them ready for school. Then, I head out to run my small breakfast business. I return home around noon and quickly rush to the market to buy ingredients for lunch.’Fatou Mbaye, a mother of four who volunteered to narrate her experience as a house wife and street vendor 'After that, I take care of household chores and start cooking. I pause midway to pick up my children from school, then return home to finish preparing lunch before my husband gets back from work’ She recounts. Stress has been normalised to the point where women believe they must endure it without complaint. Fatou said if she speaks up, she risks being labelled as weak or ungrateful.‘The stress can be overwhelming, sometimes reaching a point where you feel anxious and emotionally drained, leading to mental exhaustion. Living under such pressure can be incredibly tough. Women go through so much, carrying heavy burdens every day.’‘Imagine waking up at 5 a.m. and working nonstop until 9 p.m. - that kind of routine is exhausting. Men should support their women in every possible way. If they can't provide financially, they should at least offer peace, encouragement, and emotional support’ Fatou said.WHAT ARE THE EXPERTS SAYING?As the world amplifies the voices of women, one conversation remains critical—the mental health crisis silently consuming women who carry the weight of their world alone. Even though calls are always made for the protection of women's rights, not much sensitisation is done to help women get over their internal crises, as many of them do not recognize that their feelings are rooted in mental health struggles.Madam Fatou Kinneh Kantara, a senior psychology lecturer at the University of The Gambia, said the burden of untold struggles can lead to severe mental distress. She emphasized the importance of respecting, protecting, and providing counselling for women, highlighting that unspoken pain often weighs heavier than visible wounds.‘The best thing about dealing with stressful issues is to discuss it. You have to talk to professionals about it, somebody who can actively listen to you and give you a safe space. Women should be celebrated, respected, loved and kind too.’‘Women have to be kind to each other as well, love and support each other mentally and physically. These are important things. If a woman is not comfortable, if they are going through any problem the whole family will suffer,’ the psychology expert said.EXPERIENCE OF A NEW MOTHERFor new mothers, the challenge is even more profound. Postpartum depression (PPD) affects many women, but in Gambian society, the topic is rarely discussed. New mothers are expected to be joyful and grateful, and anything less is often seen as unnatural.Binta Jammeh, a 29-year-old mother from Bakoteh, recalls how she had to give up her job to fully dedicate herself to the demanding roles of motherhood and being a wife.Binta's experience is a common one, yet many women suffer in silence, feeling ashamed to admit that they are struggling as they strive to avoid things that could jeopardise their marriages. ‘It’s very stressful. Having a child, you were a career woman - going to work and now everything stops. The first stress I went through was that there was no steady income for me anymore. So, if you are not very careful, sometimes it brings some friction between you and your partner when it comes to finance.’ Binta said.A CALL FOR CHANGE Among the sources of support for many struggling women, are the advocates and activists who they usually turn to when they can no longer stand the heat, especially on GBV issues.For some women, the impact of gender-based violence (GBV) compounds their mental health issues.Survivors of domestic abuse, sexual violence, and forced marriages often carry deep psychological scars. Yet, many women are urged to keep their experiences private to avoid shame. Satang Dumbuya, an Advocacy Officer at the Network Against Gender Based Violence, emphasized the need for change.‘We may not be able to do something directly for someone who is silently suffering and not talking about you. This is why we encourage reporting at all levels - family, communities and schools. We tried to reach as many places as possible to ensure that we sensitise people so they can break the silence. Your silence does not protect you.’ she said.However, a growing number of women are advocating for mental health awareness. Organizations, women’s groups, and online platforms are beginning to raise awareness about the importance of mental health among women and seeking professional help.Experts are calling for stronger government investment in mental health services, including affordable therapy and mental health education. They also urge the inclusion of ‘mental health support in community programs and religious teachings’ for women. The mental health crisis among Gambian women is an urgent issue that requires immediate attention. As women continue to speak out, there is hope that the stigma surrounding mental health struggles will diminish. For lasting change, the country must invest in mental health resources and support for women, ensuring that no one has to suffer in silence. And the biggest players in that quest are probably men, who should not only see themselves as partners of women, but as providers, protectors and big advocates of the total freedom of women. How will the country and generations be like if the key nation and generational builders (women) continue to go through psychological, mental and physical stress? Perhaps not in anyone's interest.
That is the story of Haruna Rashid Njie of Gunjur United who proved himself as one of the key figures, if not the key figure for the Gambia U-20 in the just concluded CAF U-20 Championship in Egypt. Rashid is from Gunjur United a team in the Gambia Football Federation Second Division League, that has been struggling for promotion for the six-season running. Haruna himself has been part of that struggle for three seasons now.His path to the limelight, coupled with how he went on to not only establish himself as a regular starter, but the architect of coach Abdoulie Bojang's tactic, in a setting where coaches usually trust top-tier, semi-professional and professional players for virtually any team selection, is not just interesting and surprising, but equally, inspiring.Rashid is the first young player from his village - Gunjur, to have been consistent in the national colors at the youth level. There has not been any player from Gunjur who made more appearances for any national youth team like Rashid. That in itself is a milestone achievement already. The versatile lad was the only second-tier player in the team (U-20) that represented the Gambia in the CAF U-20 Championship. Of all the games he started, he helped his side maintain a 100% winning streak without conceding a goal. That run ended in the final which he missed due to suspension after he picked a red card in the semi-final against Nigeria. The Gambia went on to lose the final against neighboring Senegal. His replacement Bailo Bah was altogether below par, and, Rashid's alter-ego in midfield - Mahmud Bajo missed his rhythm. The defense line equally missed the usual protection in tougher situations as Senegal put two unanswered goals to clinch the title at the expense of the Young Scorpions. Perhaps a moment of justification for the people who perceived Rashid as the key player for the U-20. If anyone banks on this as a defense mechanism for their claim, considering how Senegal tilted The Gambia's midfield that day, they can have good ammunition to fire at opponents in any debate. But, that is a case of its own and, for another time.What is clear is that Rashid's path to the limelight is altogether an interesting realistic story, not a fairytale! Surviving the psychological trauma of being brought up by a single parent to playing for academies in both Gambia and Senegal and taking the risk of playing Divisional football at just 15 years for a struggling side, and, fitting well in a setting where he is one of the youngest, is truly an amazing journey. BEGINNING OF THE JOURNEYThe journey has been a remarkable one, remarkable as the Scorpions performed in their maiden AFCON appearance in Cameroon - only if you know that story. If there is any percentage of luck in Rashid's journey, that will not be more than 10%, most of it could be credited to commitment, bravery, and respect for the game. 'All I do is to train and relax because my focus is to become a professional footballer' he said.'Growing up as an orphan as I lost my dad who was the provider for the family at a tender age, I knew the onus of the family would rest on me, so I need to work hard.' 'And any community that you go to in the Gambia, you will find a very good talent. What matters, in the end, is hard work, patience, and respect for your leaders. There's no magic in football, it's all down to commitment and hard work and that has been my focus' he told GFF Media.Born in Gunjur, a footballing community in the West Coast Region on the 23rd of September 2005. Rashid, like any young boy in the village, will go on to play football in childhood for fun. Little did he know at the time that will someday change his life. And that did not take any longer. Rashid's talents were noticed at a young age by local summer football teams in Gunjur. Many came knocking, but Red Star F.C. the most successful club in Gunjur convinced him to join their camp. He was taken to the Gunjur United academy which is managed by the then coach of Red Star - Babucarr Kakai Bojang. And Rashid soon became a key figure for the U-15s.THE TURNING POINTWhile playing for the Gunjur United Academy, Haruna was scouted by a Senegalese agent who took him to the Africa Foot Academy in Senegal after agreements with Gunjur United. Aged 13, Rashid went on to become the captain of the U-15 of the Dakar-based academy. But, he only spent two seasons there as he returned home after the Covid outbreak. And, then returned to Gunjur United, and joined the first team in the Gambia Football Federation second division league as their youngest player in the 2020/21 season. largely coming as a substitute, Rashid still managed to score 8 goals and made four assists, making him the youngest player to have achieved such a feat. His side - Gunjur United narrowly missed out in the qualification for the top tier league, losing 2 -1 to Team Rhino in the play-off in what was their closest attempt as they finished 4th in the league. In his second season in 2021/22, Rashid had a glittering campaign. For the season, he scored 16 goals from his position as a supporting striker. Since then, the young star started grabbing national attention and ultimately the big moment came at age 17. DREAM COME TRUE'I used to watch the Gambia U20 with my friends on TV. I will only watch the first half and tell them I am going for training, I want to also play at that stage someday.'He was clear about his dream and he worked towards it. And, it soon turned from a dream to a real-life situation. In just his second season as a second-division player, he got his first call-up to join the U-20 for trials. The moment he has long dreamed of, and, who will expect a player as hungry as Rashid to miss the opportunity. He impressed beyond expectations and got selected in the squad that represented the Gambia in the WAFU Zone A championship in Mauritania in 2022 and came out as runners-up - losing 1 - 0 to Senegal in the final. Rashid was largely a substitute in that tournament. But, he will work hard to change that. Another call came, this time from the CHAN team (U-23). Rashid traveled with the team to Morocco for a doubleheader against Guinea Bissau in the qualifiers in July 2022. Unfortunately, they missed out on penalties after a one-all aggregate. Rashid was the only player to have erred in the shootout as Bissau went on to win 5 - 4. But that did not overshadow what has been described as a 'great achievement' for the youngest in the midst - a raw talent from division two. Tall, well built, pacy, skillful, and clinical with a strong dual foot and great vision and ability to protect and retrieve the ball, Rashid will continue with the U-20 squad. His ability to operate effectively in different positions, coupled with his discipline and great work ethic will soon make him a distinct figure in coach 'Lie' Bojang's set-up.Playing in a more unaccustomed position - offensive midfield, Rashid proved a mastermind in a position that would have been new for any player in his situation.Yet, he was one of the revelations of the tournament, stepping in to support his side with excellent technique and vision. He provided security and stability all the way to the semifinal against Nigeria. Rashid and his partner were vital components in a midfield that proved too clever and quick for most opponents. Rashid and his U-20 teammates will travel to Argentina in May 2023 for the FIFA U-20 World Cup. Another moment for him to prove his worth, this time on the global stage.If he should come back with a contract from any European team after the World Cup, that will not be any surprising. Perhaps the least a quality player like him deserved. Rashid's rapid growth does not come with any favor from anyone. If there is any secret, that will be hard work, commitment, focus, and discipline he has shown all through his journey. A great player is in the making!
The Young Scorpions of the Gambia ripped South Sudan into pieces to reach the U-20 AFCON semifinals and qualify for the May 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup. Crossing the quarterfinals stage was the 'primary target' of the young scorpions and they achieved it in the wildest fashion, effortlessly thrashing the Bright Stars of South Sudan 5 - 0. The result means the Young Scorpions will now take on Nigeria in the semifinals on Monday 6th March and equally, they will serve as one of Africa's representatives in the 2023 FIFA U-20 world cup which will take place in Indonesia. BEGINNING OF THE MISERY!Gambia's Adama Bojang failed to score at the group stages but this was purely his show. He ended his goal drought just after 7 minutes when he controlled Alagie Saine's long pass and fired past the Sudan goalkeeper Godwill Simon, to signal the misery that awaits South Sudan.Moses Jarju then glanced home a free header after a fine corner from Salifu Colley and Kajally Drammeh embarrassed the Sudan left-back before squaring a pass to Adama Bojang who rolled into an unguarded net for his second and the Gambia's third goal. At that moment, South Sudan who were largely bystanders, uncharacteristically pedestrians, only showed panic and their body language started to bellow surrender. But they were not still able to minimize the damage as the Gambia added two further goals. Steve Biko's starlet Adama Bojang who is the first player to have scored a hat-trick in the 2023 Gambia Football Federation First Division League, ultimately found his scoring boots as he fired home to complete a hat trick after the rushing Sudan goalkeeper misjudged actions at the edge of the box.4 - 0, it was game over already but the young scorpions appeared as if they did not have South Sudan where they wanted them. They keep pressing and Mahmud Bajo intentionally deflected Muhammed Sawaneh’s shot to beat the Sudan goalkeeper Godwill Simon and rounded up a comprehensive 5 – 0 win for The Gambia. The Young Scorpions did not only prove their attacking strength which could greatly be credited to coach Abdoulie Bojang's decision of handing Modou Lamin Marong and Salifu Colley both attack-minded players a start but equally their defensive cohesion as they are yet to concede a goal. So long Sudan could be considered as a weak opposition, is one thing, but the all-around ability of this Gambia side is one thing not to lose sight of, and scoring five goals in a quarter-final game, could certainly send worrying signals to the next opponents.
The outstanding unbeaten dominance shown by the defending champions Gunjur could have only been complemented by adding a super cup title, but those dreams were left in ruins, as Brikama thrashed them 3 - 0 in the Super Cup of the West Coast Region Zonal Championship to put an end to their dominance, at a jam-packed Boxbar mini-stadium.Gunjur made a bright start and forced Brikama into conceding a penalty within two minutes as Brikama's goalkeeper Ebrima Fadera was penalised for a foul on Babucarr Bojang, but the goalkeeper make amends for his error to save Babucarr Bojang's penalty and also a follow-up strike. Brikama then opened the scoring from the resulting attack as the prolific Saikou Ceesay poked home a rebound after the Gunjur custodian Ousman Touray parried a cross to his path. In their efforts to restore parity before the break, Gunjur's Baba Colley had a header ricochet the crossbar and Celestin Jatta also had a goal-bound header, headed out by a Brikama defender on the goal line as Brikama headed into the interval with a slender advantage. Whatever Brikama was told during the halftime team talk, was executed by the players as they add to their lead within a minute after the restart - when diminutive Bubacarr Sanneh fired home a screamer to draw wild celebrations from the home crowd. Even with that 2 - 0 lead, it appears Brikama did not have Gunjur their way, and they duly added a third goal to brush aside any hopes of a Gunjur comeback. It was the diminutive Babucarr Sanneh again who orchestrated a destructive Brikama attack down the right where he exchanged passes before sneaking into the box to fire a shot out of the reach of the rushing Gunjur goalkeeper for his second goal, and Brikama's third. That sealed a comfortable 3 - 0 win over the champions Gunjur, much to the disbelief of their traveling supporters and to the delight of home supporters. The 'our land our cup' chants before and during the game by the Brikama supporters, ultimately turned into reality as Brikama clinched the super cup to serve notice to the rest of the teams about their title ambitions.Up against a gritty and physically powerful side, Gunjur were not just beaten, they were torn apart, ripped to pieces by a Brikama side blend with young talented, and experienced players. Whether Brikama will be able to show a performance like this in their away fixtures, is a question for another day, but, they have shown it in front of their home supporters in this Super Cup, against a side they have not beaten in their last four meetings, only managing a single draw. Brikama did not deserve to be in the Super Cup after finishing 4th in last season's campaign, but they deserve this victory against Gunjur. They were selected to play in the Super Cup after the runners Sanyang confirm their participation lately and Brikama took advantage of the rare opportunity coupled with home support to inflict heavy revenge on Gunjur, a side that thrashed them 6 - 2 on aggregate in the semi-finals en route to this stage. If the performance of Gunjur last season make people believe that a title defense is a possibility for the Kombo South giants, this scoreline against a purposeful Brikama side will cast doubts over those beliefs.
There has never been a heated build-up to a Gambia Football Federation election like the country is witnessing, and that credit must be given to Sadibou Kamaso who stands boldly out of the many football lovers to oppose a man once his God Father – Lamin Kaba Bajo.With the election finally on the horizon, the campaigning atmosphere has been tense, from the Greater Banjul Area to the Regions as Kaba and Kamaso continue to canvas for votes. But who is who?That has been the widely raised question, and whether they are both competent or not. At the end of it all, it must be either Kaba or Kamaso that will administer the country’s football for the next four years.The fact that many stakeholders are not openly taking sides makes it difficult for one to conclude who is the likeliest candidate to sweep the pool.THE WEAKNESSBoth Kaba and Kamaso have previously served in the GFF executive and one will expect them to have an idea as to how the game should be administered. The duo like any other football administrator must have a weakness and their campaigns are widely centered on what has gone wrong for either of them.With Kaba hitting Kamaso on the missing money under kamaso’s watch in Morocco, Kamaso has equally been lambasting Kaba on the missing GFF millions and for failing on his promises. Campaigning against someone who knows your weakness, could be a challenge for anyone, and that has been one major weakness for Kaba and as such he dodged all face-to-face encounters with Kamaso.MANIFESTING BRAVERY Whether it was a sharp tongue, the desire for a position, or an interest in the development of the game, whatever the case, Sadibou has clearly manifested bravery in his campaigning by appearing in a live televised debate to talk about his policies and how he intends to ‘restore the confidence he has been campaigning on. Sadibou Kamaso has shown readiness to appear on any TV or Radio program irrespective of how tough he thinks it will be for him.Whether it was evasive or a strategy, the GFF incumbent failed to take on his challenger face-on at any given opportunity. At his campaign team’s behest, Lamin Kaba Bajo declined the invitation for a first-ever live televised football debate and all other live television programs where Sadibu had accepted to appear.Kamaso capitalised on the absence of the incumbent and sold his idea to the football world, perhaps in a more honest and open setting, which could have been a major turning point for his bid to control "Football house".In all honesty, it was a missed opportunity for Kaba to sell his new agenda, defend his record in office and dismiss all allegations of mismanagement against his administration. His absence did not help the lost confidence that Sadibu is saying he wants to restore, particularly among the general public.DECISION MAKERS Now the country’s football future squarely lies in the hands of the decision makers – Stakeholders. Will go with Kaba’s team of ‘Continuity’ or Kamaso’s ‘Restore Confidence’ team? Whatever decision they make, must be in the interest of football development. Some represent clubs and some communities of close to 30, 000 people, and others, entire Regions.The stakeholders are in the nick of things, they are witnesses to football development and pitfalls in the country. The decision they make will have implications not only on the close circuit of stakeholders but on the entire nation. The outcome of the 27th of August election is what the country has to deal with for the next four years. That decision must not be one that will warrant one to seek forgiveness for taking the wrong decision.
This was not the dream at the start of the season, but ultimately Hawks a football team with a development mindset betrayed their ideology for good, and registered a success that even the bookies and pundits were not foreseeing. They end their long wait for a Gambia Football Federation [GFF] First Division League title as they become the 2022 GFF League Champions, the first time since they last won it in 1996.Hawks have recorded 19 wins, 5 draws, and 6 defeats in their 30 league games - scoring 38 goals and conceding just 17 in the process.This was the third time Hawks laid their hands on the coveted trophy, having previously won it in 1993 and 1996. The intervals between the second and the third is long but Hawks can brag and claim that they end their title drought when they were not fully prepared for it.As League Champions, Hawks received a check for 750, 000 Gambian Dalasi, while first runners up Real De Banjul received GMD300, 000 and second runners Steve Biko FC pockets GMD150, 000. Before the start of the season, if any pundit should consider Hawks in the top five teams as title contenders, might receive a mockery of a lifetime. With the then defending champions Fortune FC in a red hot form, Wallidan F.C the big spenders who strengthened their squad with talent and experience and even had a training camp in Saudi Arabia where they might have prayed so hard for God to grant them the title that has recently been elusive. Real De Banjul showing how much desperate they are for the title changing coaches like how a preseason team makes substitutions, Brikama United from a highly demanding community, reshuffle their technical set-up and add more quality to their squad in their pursuit, plus the institutional team's [GAF, GPA & Gamtel] with strong financial and moral backing, were largely the bookies favourite at the beginning.But something changed along the line and Hawks capitalised."I have never been tasked to win the title this season, during the cause of the league we see how teams are performing and we think we can fight for the league and collectively we achieved what we believe" Alieu Jagne the Hawks coach said. Whether it was a plan or a gamble, Hawks can never be looked at as a lucky winner, they laboured so hard for their success. Continuously improving in their standings as the league progress. Since they took over the top spot from Brikama United and Real De Banjul, they never surrendered it, showing how consistent they were. But forget about consistency, Hawks a side full of young energetic players with perhaps a single journeyman in Mass Manga who has even been a rock-solid for them at the back, are as energetic as one might imagine. Hardly will they surrender ball possession to any opposition, making it virtually impossible for any team to register success against them, which is justified by the six defeats they registered throughout the season in the league. They played in a way so endeared to any spectator, close controls, slick and incisive movements and a lethal attacking force are what they relied heavily on to punish their opponents. As in the case of their final league game against Team Rhino when they keep stitching passes together until in the 82nd minute when they realised their opponents were running with tired legs that captain Omar Sarr who came on as a substitute, scored the only goal to wrap up what was already a delightful season.Who will expect Hawks not to produce a solid team like this when they have one of the best technically minded individuals in Sang Ndong in their midst who could be one of the people who reserve the bragging rights to associate himself with the Gambia National Team's success in Cameroon. His 'Rebuilding and Rebranding' idea works so right for the Scorpions and Hawks are in the same rebuilding process, even though they did not start setting a target but the strategy starts to yield results.If there is one thing that went right above all others it is Hawks' commitment to a footballing style which was dazzling and devastatingly effective. Possession of the ball was shown not only to be a means to scoring goals but, even more importantly, a means to preventing them too, a way of controlling the game. It is debatable if any team maintains possession like Hawks, as many big teams found out to their cost when they tried matching Hawks' flair. Possession football can be a defensive tactic as much as an offensive one.Hawks' choice of path to the crown never wavered, even when some said it had. And in the end, it proved the right one to take. Hawks have long considered their football the most artistic. And they might not be wrong, it has proven the most effective too this season
That feeling of playing and supporting a nation so dear to one's heart with great emotions has been tested by Gambians when the Scorpions made a maiden AFCON appearance in Cameroon. A population of about two million is eager for similar excitement as the Scorpions set to renew their commitment with both eyes fixed on a return to the Africa Cup of Nations. Preparations for the 2023 qualifiers have reached the climax with a venue for the Gambia's first game being identified, the squad being named and a training camp organised for the team. Gambia's squad for the game against South Sudan and Congo is already in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) where they are invited for a test game against the UAE. A game that ended 1 - 1 as Musa Barrow scored an equaliser for the visitors in the second half. The Scorpions used it as a preparatory camp before they fly to Senegal to play South Sudan on 4th June and Congo on June 8th in Brazzaville. This could be a usual campaign for the players, but not the supporters who will have to miss the home games of their team for now. Hopes are high that this could well be another successful qualifier for the Scorpions who promised the nation a return to the AFCON. And Tom certainly had the personnel that can fulfill that promise. Sulayman Marreh as the brilliant creative quarterback, the fulcrum the entire offensive unit revolves around, the excellent all-round game of his central midfield alter-ego Ebou Adams, the subtlety on the ball and superb movements in the hole of Musa Barrow with his powerful drives, the outstanding Yusupha Bobb with his delicate touch and visionary movements, the work ethics of striker Assan Ceesay and the complementary wing threat: the more fluid running and ball skills of Ablie Jallow and the forcefulness of Ebrima Colley coupled with so much quality like the master class displays of the midfield maestro Hamza Barry and the dazzling moves of the unstoppable Steve Trawally, the Scorpions could be up for another history-making campaign. During the 2021 AFCON, Tom and his team were widely tipped to be heading for a Cameroonian fall after poor pretournament preparation – not only did a young and relatively inexperienced squad defy the odds to reach the AFCON Quarterfinals in their maiden appearance, they achieved it with commitment, dash, and ingenuity. This could be another glittering campaign. The Squad For Sudan & Congo Games: Gambia's coach Tom Saintfiet's style of player selection always allows his critics to load their ammunition and fire at him. The narrative stay as usual after the coach named his squad for the Sudan game. It appears as if the coach is now so accustomed to criticism. The Belgian invited 25 players that excluding some notable names some of who were instrumental during the AFCON in Cameroon. Explaining his reasons, Tom said those players are either injured or demanded to be excused for the first two games. According to Tom in an interview with AfriRadio, Steve Trawallly, Saidy Janko, Ebou Adams, and Noah Sonko Sundberg all requested to be left out, while Ebrima Colley and Ali Sowe are said to be injured and Hamza Barry who was included is said to miss the first two games due to passport issue. The Scorpions further went on to lose two players Modou Secka Barrow and Dembo Darboe to injury, they are replaced with Nuha Marong and Bun Sanneh (the only home-based player). So long as it may be agreed that so much quality is lost by missing those players, it can equally be agreed that there is some much quality on the list to bank on. With the return of Ablie Jallow, added to, Musa Barrow and Assan Ceesay who is in red hot form. Rocky centre-backs in Omar Colley and James Gomez and dynamic midfielders like Sulayman Marreh, Ebrima Darbo, and Yusupha Bobb can all help Tom have it his way against Sudan as the players have a greater understanding of the Belgian pragmatic tactical approaches. The Unusual: This generation of the Scorpions supporters is faced with something unusual as both FIFA and CAF agreed that The Gambia doesn't have the infrastructure that is fit for purpose, as such they've been banned from hosting international matches. This forced the Gambia Football Federation to negotiate with Senegal for The Gambia to host their home games. That massive crowd might not be seen when the Scorpions play, even though some economically strong supporters will still travel and GFF will be able to generate some little income from the little tickets they will sell. A massive loss for the country morally and economically, but this might not affect the performance of the team as demonstrated in their previous ties outside like against Algeria, DR Congo, and Angola where the Scorpions showed outstanding displays without their supporters. Hopes Most of the Scorpions players have enjoyed some fortune with their clubs and hopes are high that they can carry along the same luck to the Scorpions camp and make their campaign a fortunate one. The Scorpions are drawn in the same group as Congo, Mali, and South Sudan, which is not a more so difficult group judging by the recent form and achievement of the three teams. Scorpions could be buoyed by the recent underachievement of their opponents and build on that. South Sudan who were admitted into CAF as recently as 2012, never qualify in their attempts in 2015 and 2021. Congo who last played the AFCON in 2015 where they finished as a quarterfinalist, were hit with misfortune since then and they were unable to qualify for the past three editions.Mali the most consistent side in the group in terms of appearance since 2008 played in all the editions since then but the far they could go in the past two editions was a Round of 16 finish. This indicates that the Scorpions who finished as quarterfinalists in the last edition in Cameroon have had a more recent success than their opponents. Analytically, their chances of advancing from this group are high.
A promise by the Gambia Football Federation [GFF] that was supposed to last for months but took almost two years, was ultimately fulfilled as the GFF deliver its promise to change the turf in Brikama and Banjul mini stadiums. For these footballing communities, this was long overdue and ultimately they smiled as football is on the verge of returning home. The two communities have endured the agony of playing home games away, a lack of "Nawettan" - Summer Championship, and a complete loss of revenue which greatly hampered the growth of the games in the area. Now that there is hope on the horizon, this can bring along relief not only for Brikama and Banjul but for the many teams who can use the ground to play their league games. And even the pickpocketers within Brikama will rejoice that crowding will soon star at the popular arena, for them an opportunity to practice their defacto profession. I had a personal experience with them, when they stole my only D200 from my pocket around 2012 when Brikama play Esperance Sportive De Tunis, I was nearly left stranded as that was supposed to be my fare back home - laugh. Indications are there that the delay is now history as the scotching of the synthetic artificial turf in both Brikama and Banjul nears completion, while the expansion of dressing rooms and the stands and also the construction of spectators' toilets are also ongoing. BUT WHAT HAS BEEN RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DELAY? We tried to independently find out from Bakary K. Jammeh the project manager of the GFF but our efforts were futile. As per the information we received from Sports Administrators from both Brikama and Banjul was a "lack of funds". Logically, that's right. If the Federation has not mismanaged the funds for the projects or diverted them to somewhere else, the story of these grounds would have been different. Reports indicate that the money spent on the project is from the AFCON bonuses recently given to the Gambia by CAF. Whatever the case, the refurbishment of the two grounds is delayed but not denied.
BOTTROP AND SCANAID CRIES, BAKOTEH LAUGH AND LK SABIJI PROVES UNMATCHED IN SCHOOL ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPThe unexpected last-ditch catastrophe that struck the defending champions Bottrop Technical Senior Secondary School and Scanaid, turned out to be a blessing for Bakoteh Upper and Senior Secondary School. Bakoteh had the last laugh and clinched their first title in School Athletics Championship and Latrikunda Sabiji proved unmatched and makes it six titles in a row in the Upper Basic category. Indications were there that Bottrop would have defended their title considering their strength or Scanaid Senior School would clinch the title as they defeated Bakoteh to clinch the Region one title. Bakoteh couldn’t have hoped for anything better than Bottrop and Scanaid’s suspension as they [Bakoteh] secured the crown at the expense of the rest with the 100-thousand-dalasi prize money and winners medal. Analysts have boldly stated before the championship that at the Upper Basic School level, the title was for Latrikunda and it turned just that way as they retain their title with an unmatched performance that saw them amass 398 points. Other Schools might claim they tried enough, but their efforts were not enough to stop Bakoteh and Latrikunda. Charles Jow and Saint Michael finished second and third respectively and pocketed 50 and 25 thousand dalasi. At the Upper Basic School category, Barra-Essau finished as runners-up with 25 thousand price money and Brikama U.B.S as the second runners-up received 15 thousand dalasis. If Bottrop and Scanaid had not shed tears of despair, Bakoteh wouldn’t have shed tears of joy. Whether they will win it again or not, Bakoteh are the legitimate champions for the 2022 National Inter-Schools Athletics Championship. BOMBSHELL: There has never been a shock in the championship than we saw with just three days to the competition. The organisers dropped a bombshell that left the affected schools shedding tears. Bottrop, Mahaad, Scanaid, Nusrat, Mingdaw among other schools were suspended from participating for using ineligible athletes during the regional championship. This was a shock for the entire athletics family, such a bold decision came as a surprise, but school authorities say it was aimed to “sanitize” the championship. UNMATCHED PERFORMANCE: Winning an athletics title will require energy, consistency and athleticism. That was what the winners combined to display an unmatched performance which saw them secure the titles with the widest of point difference. For Latrikunda Sabiji it was an easy ride in virtually all the events. If one thinks they are at their worst, that is when they finished second in the race. LK put together a formidable sprint and middle-distance team that scooped almost all the events as they amassed 398 points, 206 points more than second-place Barra-Essau who secured 192 points. A lucky performance can't earn one such incredible points. Latrikunda were simply irresistible. In the senior category, Bakoteh were equally above the rest. Their male team sometimes will have to negotiate their way in some events and miss some. For the girls, it was a clear victory all through, from the 100m, 200m, 1,500m, 300, 4x400, and Medley relay. Binta Jallow and co were just no match to the rest. This was justified by the 365 points they secured, leaving a gap of 181 points from second place Charles Jow who recorded 184 points. OUTSTANDING ATHLETES: The School Athletics always unravel bright potentials in athletics and the 2022 edition has seen an increase even though some previous performers have stayed defiant in their various events. With some bullet-like movements, Sitta Jarju, Isatou Gibba, Halimatou Saho all of Latrikunda Sabiji UBS were simply not at the same level as the rest of the girls in the sprint events as they emerged first anytime they stood on the tracks. In the middle-distance events, Mariama Barry of LK Sabiji proved energetic to win the 3000m girls open, while Sarjo Badjie of Arrangallen was the most energetic as he scooped the goal medal in the 5000m open boys. Musa Kujabi of WYCE Upper Basic School was one of the fastest sprinters in the boy’s category, finishing first in the U-15 boys' category. At the senior school category, the girls of Bakoteh [Binta Jallow and Mariama Camara] were simply the best, the only position they settled for was the first position. If you think Bakoteh are only good at sprinting, wait for their middle-distance team. Safiatou Sanneh of Bakoteh Upper and Senior was the most energetic female athlete. She finished first in the 1,500m and 3,000m open girls respectively. Essau’s Amadou Sowe had the first laugh as he clinch the first gold medal at the National Championship winning both the 5,000m and 1,500m open boys for senior school. For some students, this was their final season, but for some, they will have to return to see if they can defend their crowns in the next championship. CHALLENGES: School sports might have been doing well, but the nation is not doing enough in developing the talents it has been and still producing. One might brag about Gina Bass for passing through school sports, but the gap between her and the rest of the athletes produced by the schools is immeasurable. The challenge has been and remains the platform for developing young talents. “Our work stops at producing athletes for the Gambia Athletics Association [GAA], but they’ve not been doing enough. For athletics to develop in the country, there should be proper structures in the country if we are truly serious about developing athletics.” Ismaila Ceesay the President of Secondary School Sports said. The gap between Region one and the rest of the Regions remains the same as the country’s only track for athletics is situated in region one. This could be considered as a total injustice for a Nation whose most outstanding athletes are usually drawn from the rest of the regions. When are the authorities going to show real commitment in addressing the persistent challenge? PLANS AHEAD: “This is what we can do, to produce talents for the Athletics Association”, were the remarks of Ismaila Ceesay the President of Secondary School Sports Association. In as much as that might be right, school authorities might also be hold accountable for not putting up enough strategies for the athletes they reserve the bragging rights over. As if they were told that they need to do more, the Secondary School Sports Association said they are coming up with another competition – Regional Championship which will bring together school-going athletes representing various regions in the National Regional School Championship. But what next after their academic careers, perhaps a question for GAA to answer. This could be another competition for the nation to scout real raw potentials for better and much-needed representation at the international level. It will be a tragedy to see the talents of these school going students end after their grade 12. With the suspended schools set to return with ‘unstoppable force’ that means more queens and kings on the tracks in the next edition and justice will be served if realistic advances are put in place to help the passionate athletes develop themselves at the end of their school careers.
Kinshasa, a city of nearly 20 million inhabitants, one man from The Gambia is making a difference. Bouna Batchilly, a native of Garawol who arrived in the DRC nearly 30 years ago to search for greener pastures was moved by the plight of children in this huge and bustling city. Bouna singlehandedly adopted over 500 abandoned children and orphans, through his foundation, giving them hope and a future.Many of them have now traveled to Europe, the US and Middle East. For him giving back to a country that gave him so much gives him great personal satisfaction. As he beams with happiness and satisfaction, Bouna believes every child deserves an opportunity to realise their potential. Nearly 30 years running the foundation, Bouna has won praise from several humanitarian organisations and embassies in Kinshasa who often render help. There are currently more than 30 children living with him, cared for by his wife and staff employed by the foundation. His efforts have drawn admiration from the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Gambians Abroad Dr Mamadou Tangara who visited the orphanage accompanied by the Secretary General and head of the civil service Noah Touray and the Honorary Consul Ansumana Tunkara. Bouna is also the President of the Gambia Association in Kinshasa, working with likeminded Gambians to promote the interests and welfare of the community in Congo. His wish is to leave a legacy in the Congo, and believes that Gambians wherever they are exhibit that humane spirit of love, care and solidarity.
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