See how it works
Book Yunus with Paydesk
Make your booking securely through paydesk for these benefits:
1
Preferred Booking Channel
Yunus is more likely to commit to assignments booked through paydesk, as it is a trusted platform that validates the seriousness and legitimacy of each engagement.2
Insured Bookings for Peace of Mind
We provide basic insurance coverage with each booking on paydesk, giving both you and the media professional confidence and protection while they work for you.3
Effortless Online Payment
Paydesk offers a payment protection system to ensure payments are only finalized when you are satisfied with the job completion. Freelancers trusts our process that guarantees their efforts are rewarded upon successful delivery of servicesStill have questions?
Check FAQAbout Yunus
Yunus Saliu is a seasoned journalist and publisher with a deep-seated passion for covering cultural traditions and festivals in The Gambia, West Africa. His reporting has shed light on the Kamanjo Saikouba Badjie Cultural Butusab Group, bringing attention to their supernatural performances and the rich cultural heritage of the Jola people. Through his work, Saliu underscores the significance of preserving Gambian culture and addresses the challenges cultural groups encounter in sharing their art forms with wider audiences. As a reporter, columnist, and the mind behind DTourisphere—an online platform focusing on tourism, culture, heritage, and entertainment news—Saliu has contributed to various sections of the Daily Observer newspaper, including Diplomatic Suites, Crime Watch, Panorama, and Tourisphere. His Tourisphere column is particularly dedicated to tourism and culture in The Gambia, offering insights into the sector's dynamics and developments. Saliu's engagement with the tourism industry is extensive. He collaborates with tour operators, the Gambia Hotel Association, and educational groups visiting the Smiling Coast of Africa. He maintains a close relationship with the Ministry of Tourism and Culture and its satellite institutions, such as the Gambia Tourism Board, National Centre for Arts and Culture, and the Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute. His freelance work includes covering various tourism activities for publication. Additionally, he has served as a committee member of the annual Akwaaba African Travel Market Exhibition in Nigeria, further cementing his role as a key influencer in the Gambian and regional tourism and cultural sectors.
English
Feature Stories
Interview (Print / Radio / Podcast)
Fact Checking
Portfolio
Flex Fuzion Entertainment strengthens women's rights in dance sector
Flex Fuzion Entertainment and Dance Academy, through Afriq Divas, is strengthening women's rights in Gambia's dance sector with a project funded by the African Culture Fund. Ndey Fatou Jabang, CEO and founder, highlighted the organization's efforts in challenging stereotypes, promoting dance as a career, and creating employment for women. The academy has trained over 500 individuals and recently held a 3-day training for 30 women on rights and legal issues. A certification ceremony and Afriq Divas's 10th anniversary were celebrated at the Ebunjan Theatre, attended by the US Ambassador and other dignitaries. Jabang emphasized the diverse talents of female dancers and their success in establishing dance brands despite societal challenges.
SOS, St Charles win CHE Drama Competition
The CHE inter-school drama competition in Gambia, funded by the International Development Research Center, aimed to promote comprehensive health education among adolescents. Fifteen schools participated, with SoS Senior Secondary School and ST Charles winning in their respective categories. The initiative successfully raised awareness about health education through performances, with all participating schools receiving recognition.
Tourism minister says heritage is next gold mine for African countries
Minister Bah, speaking at a regional workshop in Dakar, emphasized the importance of combating theft and illicit trafficking of cultural property in West Africa. He highlighted the need for African countries to reclaim their heritage objects from foreign museums and collectors to boost cultural identities and generate income. The Gambia has recently ratified key UNESCO conventions and is building a new museum to preserve restituted objects. The minister praised the UNESCO Regional Office and stressed the shared cultural ties between The Gambia and Senegal.
Nigerian tourism expert talks about uniqueness of Gambia at WTM
Uko, a Nigerian tourism expert and organizer of the Akwaaba Travel Market, highlighted the unique appeal of The Gambia as a tourist destination at the World Travel Market (WTM). Despite not being a shopping destination, The Gambia has a special connection with tourists, particularly Nigerians. Uko emphasized the importance of African countries, including The Gambia, to participate in WTM to promote tourism. He noted the growing interest in African destinations among Nigerian tour operators and encouraged continuous efforts to attract sustainable tourism from Nigeria.
Tourism Ministry showcases Destination Gambia at 17th WTM Summit
The Gambia's Ministry of Tourism and Culture showcased Destination Gambia at the 17th World Travel Market (WTM) Summit, emphasizing the importance of the event for promoting tourism. The summit, a key annual gathering for tourism ministers, featured stakeholders such as the Gambia Civil Aviation Authority, Gambia International Airline, and the Gambia Tourism Board. The UK market was highlighted as crucial, with over 40% of tourists to The Gambia coming from there. The Gambia already has flights from the UK through The Gambia Experience and TUI UK, with more expected. The Nordic market was also noted as essential, with historical ties to Swedish tourism in The Gambia.
Destination Gambia wins UNWTO Video Competition
The Gambia won the UNWTO Tourism Video Competition in the Africa category with their entry 'Welcome to Gambia'. The competition, held during the UNWTO General Assembly in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, recognized member states' videos that effectively communicated the positive impact of tourism. The competition had two categories: Tourism and the Decade of Action, focusing on the tourism sector's advancement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and Exceptional Stories of Sustainable Tourism, highlighting the social impact of tourism. Other winners included Panama, Philippines, Georgia, and Oman.
Gambia tourism contingent at WTM upbeat about positive investors
The Gambia's presence at the World Travel Market (WTM) is marked by optimism about attracting positive investors. Led by Tourism Minister Hamat NK Bah, the Gambian delegation engaged with new and existing partners, highlighting achievements and potential growth in tourism. Key stakeholders, including Gambia Tours and The Gambia Experience, reported successful meetings and anticipated increased flight frequencies from the UK market. The Gambia Tourism Board was commended for its efforts in promoting the destination, with the British market forming a significant portion of tourist arrivals.
OP, Public Service Ministry validate Trade Logistics Diagnostic Study
A validation workshop held at Bakadaji Hotel, Kotu, brought together private and public sector stakeholders to discuss the findings of a comprehensive Trade Logistics Diagnostic Study conducted at the Port of Banjul and major trade corridors. The study, in partnership with the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, aimed to evaluate the efficiency of marine, customs, port terminal, and logistics processes. Key government officials, including the Minister of Public Service and the Chief of Staff, emphasized the importance of the study in shaping a trade and logistics charter to improve The Gambia's port infrastructure and trade corridors. Innovations by the Gambia Ports Authority and the Gambia Revenue Authority were acknowledged, and stakeholders were encouraged to engage with the report to enhance trade efficiency and competitiveness.
Trade minister takes pride in Gambian made products
Minister Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof expressed pride in Gambian-made products and emphasized the government's commitment to supporting local producers and creating jobs. He highlighted the importance of addressing food security, especially in light of global geopolitical issues like the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The minister assured that local milling companies have the potential to meet the country's flour needs and discussed price and shipping conditions. During his tour, he visited several institutions, addressing their constraints and promising solutions.
Bah congratulates Qatar, harps on Islamic heritages & values
Minister Hamat Bah, speaking at an ISESCO event, praised Qatar for successfully hosting the World Cup and highlighted the importance of preserving Islamic heritages and values. He expressed concerns over challenges facing the Islamic world, including social media and anti-Islamic efforts, but emphasized the role of ISESCO in addressing these issues. Bah called for unity in protecting the Holy Qur'an and promoting Islamic values, and thanked ISESCO for its support. He also mentioned Gambia's efforts to inscribe traditional board games into the ICESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
Heritage Management Organization to open office and training centre in Barra today
The Heritage Management Organization (HERITΛGE) is opening a new office and training centre in Barra as part of its HerMaP Gambia Program, co-financed by the European Union. The centre aims to foster community engagement, cultural heritage management, and serve as a tourist information hub. Esteemed guests, including representatives from the EU delegation, ITTOG, and GYCC, are expected to attend the opening. The HerMaP Gambia program focuses on developing business skills for heritage managers to support cultural enterprises, with additional funding from the UN Economic Commission for Africa and in partnership with the NCAC.
Trade ministry inaugurates new GIEPA board members
The Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment (MOTIE) in Gambia has inaugurated new board members for the Gambia Investment and Export Promotion Agency (GIEPA). The board includes high-ranking officials from various ministries and the Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Minister Baboucarr Joof praised the new members for their experience and expressed confidence in their ability to address funding challenges for GIEPA. Chairman Abdou Touray also expressed gratitude and optimism about the board's future impact.
MOTIE enlightens public on Employment Policy
The Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment (MOTIE) in Gambia launched a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about the new Labour Act 2023 and the National Employment Policy and Action Plan 2022-2026. The campaign, which began in the Lower River Region, aims to educate the public and gather their opinions on these documents. Governor Seedy Bah and other officials emphasized the importance of the campaign in achieving the government's goal of creating 150,000 jobs. The initiative includes plans for a national employment forum and addresses common issues between employees and employers. The campaign has been positively received by participants, who see it as beneficial for job hunting and workplace relations.
Gambia’s Top Resa IFTM 2023 maiden appearance showcased in Paris
The Gambia made its first appearance at the 45th edition of the Top Resa IFTM 2023 in Paris, led by Tourism Minister Hamat N.K. Bah. The event, which ran from October 3 to 5, 2023, allowed the delegation to promote Gambia's tourism offerings. Key discussions included the domestication of the Banjul-Dakar route, with Air Senegal committing to reduce ticket prices. The trade show, organized by Reed Expositions France, is a significant platform for tourism professionals, attracting 170 destinations and 30,000 attendees.
Trade Ministry eyes cross-border trade
The Trade Ministry of Gambia, led by Mr Joof, is collaborating with ECOWAS to establish a joint border with Senegal, with Giboro being a prime candidate. Despite the commendable efforts of border officers, the current infrastructure poses challenges to efficient cross-border trade. The Minister's visit highlighted the need for improved facilities to facilitate smoother international trade. The delegation included senior officials from various institutions, emphasizing the importance of this initiative.
Ostend Banjul City Link, NCAC train Banjul tour guides
Over thirty youths participated in a training program as part of the Ostend Banjul City Link EU-sponsored project aimed at preparing them as tour guides in Banjul. The training, described as timely and important, was supported by the Banjul City Council and the National Centre for Arts and Culture. Key figures such as Modou Jonga, Hassoum Ceesay, and Ebrima Jawo emphasized the significance of the initiative for employment and cultural preservation. Future training sessions are planned to further enhance the skills of the youth in the city.
Rainstorm destroys Kunta Kinteh Island jetty
A heavy rainstorm destroyed the jetty leading to Kunta Kinteh Island, significantly hindering access to the popular tourist site. The island itself remains undamaged. Hassoum Ceesay, director general of the National Centre for Arts and Culture, confirmed the damage and stated that urgent repairs are needed. The center is seeking assistance from UNESCO to assess and repair the jetty to ensure continued safe access to the island.
2 in police net over alleged CSCG forged documents
Two individuals, Nfamara Jabang and Sulayman Sarr, have been arrested for allegedly forging documents purported to be from Cruise Ship Crew Gambia (CSCG). The forged documents, including Letters of Employment and Invitation, were used to deceive applicants and consulates. CSCG's director of Operations, Musa Drammeh, highlighted that the recruitment process at CSCG is free and follows international standards. The alleged forgers charged applicants large sums of money and used a graphic designer to alter documents. An investigation by the police is currently underway.
Trade Minister explores Farafenni Lumo
Trade Minister Bubacarr Ousmaila Joof visited the Farafenni Lumo market to understand the challenges faced by vendors and buyers. He noted the unsanitary conditions and expressed the need for improvements across all markets in the country. The minister emphasized the importance of local production to reduce dependency on imports from Senegal and highlighted the potential collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and NARI for year-round crop production. He also mentioned the role of USET in skill development and empowerment of vendors. The minister praised the resilience and contribution of Gambian women in various sectors.
ICDT, TFO instill skills in women-owned enterprises for access to int’l market
An international workshop in Banjul brought together 40 women entrepreneurs from OIC English-speaking countries to enhance their skills for global market success. The event, organized by the Islamic Centre for Development of Trade (ICDT) and the Trade Facilitation Office of Canada (TFO Canada), aimed to improve access to international markets and value chain management for women-owned enterprises. Minister Baboucarr O. Joof highlighted the importance of the training for economic empowerment and inclusivity. The workshop also addressed the challenges faced by women in the labor market and aimed to elevate their visibility and online presence.
Trust Bank supports heritage conservation
Trust Bank Gambia Ltd has contributed D46,000 to restore renewable power supply at a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enhancing visitor comfort as the new tourist season begins. The bank, known for its heritage-conscious initiatives, received commendation from NCAC officials for its longstanding support.
NCAC to undertake inventory of heritage structures in Banjul
The National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC) in Banjul, Gambia, is set to undertake an inventory of heritage structures in the city, funded by a UNESCO project. The initiative aims to protect and manage Banjul's historic buildings, many of which are over 100 years old and at risk due to urban development. The project will involve various stakeholders and create a comprehensive inventory to guide conservation efforts. The NCAC emphasizes the urgency of this project to preserve the city's architectural and historical heritage.
Gambian author reflects on migration syndrome across Mediterranean Sea
The event celebrated the life and works of Abdul Razak Gurnah, with a focus on migration and African literature. Ma’am Ramatoulie Onikepo Othman, a Gambian author, discussed the themes of undocumented migrants, refugees, asylum seekers, and exiled writers. She highlighted the dangerous migration routes from Africa through the Sahara Desert and across the Mediterranean, noting the high costs and human rights violations faced by migrants. The Gambia has been significantly impacted by these migration trends.
NCAC embarks on national language, policy development process
The National Center for Arts and Culture (NCAC) in Gambia has initiated a process to develop a National Language Policy, emphasizing the importance of preserving and valorizing the country's national languages. The initiative, supported by the Academy of African Languages of the African Union (ACALAN) and the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, aims to create a comprehensive policy document within a year. Key stakeholders, including senior citizens and experts, participated in the event, highlighting the collaborative effort required for this significant cultural endeavor.
NCAC trains Banjul Historic Built Heritage data collectors
The National Centre for Arts Culture (NCAC), funded by UNESCO Paris, organized a training program for data collectors on urban heritage conservation in Banjul. The training covered topics such as the significance of preserving urban heritage, legal frameworks, and condition assessment. Hassoum Ceesay, Director General of NCAC, emphasized the importance of preserving historic buildings and cultural practices. Michael Campbell discussed the necessity of assessing and protecting historic structures, highlighting the importance of risk analysis and documentation.
How Bathurst renamed Banjul 8 years after independence
In 1973, eight years after The Gambia's independence, the capital city was renamed from Bathurst to Banjul as part of a decolonization effort. Historian Hassoum Ceesay explains that the change was justified by the late former President Jawara to reclaim the city's original name and eliminate confusion with other towns named Bathurst. The renaming process involved significant logistical changes and was met with mixed reactions, but it was ultimately accepted as a necessary step in the decolonization process.
NCAC DG Eulogizes Mbye Gaye for Representing the Best in Wolof Folkloric Music
Hassoum Ceesay, the director general of the National Center for Arts and Culture (NCAC), praised the late Mbye Gaye for his exceptional contribution to Wolof folkloric music. Ceesay highlighted Gaye's unique style, vast experience, and willingness to advise upcoming artists. Mbye Gaye was involved in various NCAC festivals and was a prominent figure in the Banjul music scene during the 2000s alongside artists like Koto Ngum and Faya Ngum. Ceesay, on behalf of the NCAC, extended condolences to Gaye's family and fans.
NCAC embarks on inventory of Banjul’s Historic Built Heritage
The National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC) has initiated an inventory of Banjul's historic built heritage, funded by UNESCO-Paris. This project aims to support urban heritage conservation and potentially include Banjul in UNESCO's World Heritage Tentative List. The inventory includes significant landmarks such as the National Museum and McCarthy Square. Hassoum Ceesay, Director General of NCAC, acknowledged the importance of the project for Banjul and the country at large.
Gambia Copyright Office commemorates World Book, Copyright Day
The Gambia Copyright Office commemorated World Book and Copyright Day with a daylong event at the Never Again Memorial Arch, featuring music promoters, film producers, intellectuals, and a guest speaker from Canada. The event highlighted the importance of languages, cultural heritage, and copyright protection. Key speakers included Hassoum Ceesay, Sanna Jawara, and Edmond Allmond, who emphasized the significance of communication and cultural preservation. The event was supported by Trust Bank Plc and Africell.
Gambia Chronicles Illustrious Vice Presidents from First Republic
Hassoum Ceesay, a historian, details the history of vice presidents in The Gambia starting from the First Republic under President Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, who appointed five vice presidents. The Second Republic saw a suspension of the vice presidential role after Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh's coup, with vice chairmen of the Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council instead. In the Third Republic, President Adama Barrow has appointed four vice presidents. The late Badara A. Joof served as the 10th Vice President until his death on January 18, 2023. The vice president's role includes ceremonial, parliamentary, and executive functions, and the position has been recognized as significant in a democratically-elected government.
Trade Minister Joof visits Cashew Gambia Company
Trade Minister Joof visited the Cashew Gambia Company to gain firsthand knowledge of its operations and express support for local industry. Accompanied by senior officials, he toured various sections of the factory and engaged with staff. The minister praised the CEO, Muhammad B. Kabba, for his commitment to the local economy despite challenges. The visit highlighted the factory's potential to employ 500 people and its success in exporting cashews to the US. The Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment aims to create 150,000 jobs in five years, emphasizing the importance of local industry and trade.
Trade Ministry considers industrialization sine qua non to Gambia’s development – Minister Joof
Trade Minister Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof emphasized the importance of industrialization for Gambia's economic development during a visit to Salam Company Limited. He praised the company's investment and progress, highlighting its potential to meet domestic market needs and expand into other African markets. The minister assured government support to address the company's challenges, aiming to boost production and employment. CEO Muhammad Sillah outlined the company's challenges but expressed gratitude for the minister's visit and support.
2022, a fruitful and engaging year for NCAC
The NCAC had a productive year in 2022, marked by significant cultural events and projects, including the Kankurang Festival, the implementation of a UNESCO-funded project to inventory Gambia's Intangible Cultural Heritage, and the ratification of the 2001 UNESCO Convention of Underwater Cultural Heritage. The center also saw achievements in the arts, such as book launches, film premieres, and art exhibitions. Ongoing projects include the rehabilitation of the Mungo Park Obelisk site and the Kunta Kinteh Island jetty. Challenges included capacity building and increased responsibilities. Future plans involve updating management plans for heritage sites and organizing an International Cultural Festival for MacCarthy Island.
New Trade Zone holds Gambia
The Gambia and Turkey held a business forum to explore and discuss various business opportunities, with a focus on sectors such as agribusiness, renewable energy, light manufacturing, transportation, and tourism. Sulayman Mboge of the GCCI emphasized the importance of bilateral relations and encouraged Gambian businesses to export local products to Turkey. Muhammad Bahceli from Turkey highlighted the significance of the forum in understanding The Gambia's needs. The forum aimed to strengthen business ties and promote mutual investment between the two countries.
Gambia attends UNWTO global conference on linking tourism, culture & creative industry
The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) hosted a global conference focused on the intersection of tourism, culture, and the creative industry, which took place from November 14 to 16, 2022. The Gambia was represented by a delegation led by Honourable Hamat N.K. Bah, including Aboubacarr Camara, the director general of The Gambia Tourism Board, and Hassoum Ceesay from the National Centre for Arts and Culture. The conference served as a platform for stakeholders to discuss the potential of cultural tourism and the creative industries, explore innovative policies, and identify investment opportunities. Aboubacarr Camara highlighted Destination Gambia's marketing strategies, particularly in the Nigerian market.
Residents of River Gambia banks give less of Gambian history
The article discusses the challenges and importance of using oral histories to understand pre-colonial Gambian history. Dr. Assan emphasizes the need to consider local oral sources despite criticisms, highlighting the NCAC's Oral History Archives as invaluable. The text also touches on the nuanced understanding of land use and settlement among Gambians, countering the notion that vacant land was unoccupied.
Gambian Cultural Heritage goes digital symposium underway
The Gambia's Ministry of Tourism and Culture launched a digital archive at a three-day symposium, with Minister Hamat N.K. Bah expressing delight at the project's potential to enhance visibility, access, and preservation of cultural heritage. The archive will be accessible online on a paid basis, with formal research permission. The initiative is supported by the University of Hamburg and the Gerda Henkel Foundation, among others. The symposium features international scholars and aims to promote scholarly pursuits among Gambian youth. Key figures such as Prof. Schreiber, Dr. Katrin Pfeiffer, and Hassoum Ceesay delivered speeches, and the late Bakari Sidibe, founder of the archives, was honored.
Destination Gambia records increase in land arrivals in 2021
In 2021, Gambia saw a significant increase in land arrivals, with a 147% rise compared to 2020. The Gambia Immigration Department reported that land was the most popular mode of entry, particularly from neighboring Senegal. Sea arrivals also increased by 31%, and air arrivals rose by 15%. The fourth quarter of 2021 marked a notable return of tourists, with the summer months accounting for 45% of total arrivals. Despite a decline in winter air arrivals, November and December saw substantial increases. Efforts are ongoing to promote Gambia as a year-round tourist destination.
Minister Bah speaks on cultural policies at Mondiacult Conference in Mexico City
Minister Hamat N.K. Bah of The Gambia participated in the MONDIACULT Conference in Mexico City, emphasizing the importance of cultural policies for development. The conference, attended by 150 culture ministers, highlighted the role of culture in combating racism and fostering economic benefits. UNESCO's director-general, Audrey Azoulay, urged member states to strengthen cultural policies. Minister Bah discussed The Gambia's achievements in cultural policy, including the ratification of UNESCO conventions and the development of a new national culture policy. He called for inclusive, gender-friendly cultural policies globally.
Gambia ratifies 2001 UNESCO Convention on protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage
The Gambia has ratified the 2001 UNESCO Convention on the Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage, marking its fifth UNESCO convention ratification. This move aims to protect underwater cultural resources along the River Gambia and the Atlantic coast, promote sustainable tourism, and generate youth employment. The Minister of Tourism and Culture, Hamat N.K. Bah, and the director general of the National Centre for Arts and Culture, Hassoum Ceesay, highlighted the benefits of this ratification, including capacity building in archaeology and underwater diving, and the protection of local sites for community and national benefit.
Gambia tourists total air arrivals registered 15% increase in 2021
Gambia experienced a 15% increase in air arrivals in 2021, with 102,460 visitors compared to 89,232 in 2020, marking the first rise in tourism since the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite a 35% decline in traditional markets, non-traditional markets saw an 89% growth. The winter season, from November to April, is the peak period, though it saw a 32% decline in 2021. However, November and December showed significant increases of 221% and 121%, respectively. The summer months also registered over 100% growth. Aboubacarr Camara, managing director of the Gambia Tourism Board, and Adama Njie, director of Marketing, expressed optimism for the upcoming 2022/2023 winter season, with positive feedback and increased scheduled flights.
Gambia ranked 3rd among most peaceful countries in Sub-Saharan Africa
Gambia has been ranked 3rd among the most peaceful countries in Sub-Saharan Africa according to the Global Peace Index 2022. The report highlights that Sub-Saharan Africa saw a slight decline in peacefulness, with 21 countries improving their scores and 22 deteriorating. Zambia showed the largest improvement in the region, driven by better relations with neighbors and reduced military expenditure. The Global Peace Index, published by the Institute for Economics & Peace, measures peace through various metrics and aims to promote a better understanding of the factors that create peace.
Hon Bah cautions Beauty Pageant’s organiser against pitfalls of the past
Honourable Hamat N.K. Bah issued a warning against the repetition of past pitfalls associated with the Miss Gambia Beauty Pageant, such as unfulfilled prize promises and sexual exploitation. He emphasized the protection of participants and the importance of confirmed parental permission. Bah paid tribute to past beauty queens and organizers, noting the pageant's rich history since 1964. He acknowledged the event's 20-year hiatus due to scandals and funding issues, and challenged the National Centre for Arts and Culture to maintain the pageant's image as a national event. The pageant is seen as having potential as a tourism product, cultural event, and reflection of Gambian womanhood.
Network of Women in The Arts launched
The Network of Women in The Arts has been launched in Gambia to promote creative experiences for women artists through partnerships, leadership advocacy, and capacity building. Hassoum Ceesay, director general of NCAC, commended the initiative and encouraged members to seek funding opportunities. Lamin Jarjou from UNESCO highlighted the importance of participation in complementing UNESCO's activities and fostering partnerships. Sanna Jawara from NCAC emphasized the significance of copyright protection for the network, noting the role of the 2004 Copyright Act and 2018 Copyright Regulations in safeguarding creative rights.
Ebunjan Theatre hosts Maiden schools’ competition on Comprehensive Health Education
The Ebunjan Theatre hosted a maiden schools' competition on Comprehensive Health Education organized by the Curriculum Research, Evaluation and Development Directorate under the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education with support from the International Development Research Center. The event included 24 schools from Region 1 and featured drama and poetry to educate students on sexual and reproductive health topics. Professor Pierre Gomez, Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, praised the initiative, which aligns with government policy on inclusive education. The competition aimed to bridge the communication gap in sexual health education and promote wellbeing among students. Gambia Senior Secondary School won the senior secondary school category, while New Covenant won the upper basic school category.
PLJ Foundation for Development appoints Bekir Batur as goodwill ambassador
PLJ Foundation for Development, a charitable organization in The Gambia, has appointed Bekir Batur as its goodwill ambassador. The foundation, led by President Pa Lamin Jatta and Secretary Sheriff Barry, aims to improve living standards in Gambian communities by providing essential social amenities. Batur's appointment is based on the trust and confidence the organization has in him, and he has already begun planning initiatives for the foundation. The foundation has a history of donating domestic items to families in need and plans to expand its efforts with the help of partners and supporters.
The Mystical Powers of Butusab Dance in The Gambia
The article by Yunus S Saliu discusses the Kamanjo Saikouba Badjie Cultural Butusab Group, a Gambian cultural group known for their 'Butusab' dance, which showcases the performers' claimed supernatural abilities to resist knife and bullet penetration. The group, formed in 1998 and registered with the National Centre for Arts and Culture, is based in Foni, West Coast Region, and is active in promoting Gambian culture and heritage. The Butusab dance is a tradition among the Jola people and is believed to be a gift from the gods, requiring initiation and secret knowledge. The article also touches on the cultural significance of the dance, the role of women in the performances, and the annual Kansala Trust Cultural Festival in Foni, where the group performs. The group seeks assistance for transportation to spread their culture and heritage more widely.
×
Yunus'
confirmed information
✓
Phone number
Verified May 2018
✓
Joined
May 2018