Intermediate Referees Course for Elite B Officials Underway

The Gambia Football Federation (GFF) on Friday 7th February 2025 kicked start a three‑day Elite B Referees Intermediate Course for Second Division referees at the National Technical Training Center (NTTC) in Old Yundum.

The training that brought together 40 match officials including six females is organised by the GFF Referees Committee and is meant to enhance the capacity of the second division referees.

Presiding over opening ceremony, GFF President Lamin Kaba Bajo expressed his admiration for the determination of the Referees Committee in organising this historic event. Reaffirming his commitment to initiatives that complement the Federation’s efforts, Mr Bajo advised the officials to maintain the highest standards of discipline, patience, and professionalism in the execution of their duties.

GFF Executive Committee Member and Chairperson of the Referees Committee John Frank Mendy, who is also serving as a Technical Instructor, highlighted that the maiden activity is designed to complement the Federation’s efforts and inspired by the generous donation of communication gadgets to first division referees by President Bajo. “This training is funded by the Referees Committee and Association through the welfare account dedicated to supporting such initiatives. We would like to profoundly thank President Bajo, who has personally championed this course despite his overwhelming responsibilities,” he added.

Retired FIFA referee and four times CAF Best Referees award winner Bakary Papa Gasama noted that all participants have passed their fitness tests, a testament to their commitment. He acknowledged President Bajo’s sacrifice towards launching this inaugural training for the advancement of the Gambia’s referees since coming into office in 2014.

The opening ceremony was also attended by Referees Committee Member Mr Abdoulie Sowe, GFF Youth and Grassroots football Manager Mr Alagie Nyassi and Football Hotel General Manager Lamin Sanneh.

The training, coordinated by GFF Referees Manager Seedy Manneh, features technical instructors in John Frank Mendy, Dickory Jawo, Mawdo Jallow, and Bakary Papa Gasama, with Musa Jallow serving as the Fitness Instructor.