A women football symposium organised by The Gambia Football Federation (GFF) is currently underway at the National Technical Training Center in Yundum. The symposium is part of a daylong activities initiated by the Federation which began in the form of a girls’ festival in the morning and would conclude with a mini football tournament in the evening. It is also supported by several key stakeholders including the German Olympic Federation, the Ministry of Youth & Sports and the European Union.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Sainabou Cham expressed delight and gratitude to partners for supporting the initiative. “Our task is to make it possible and our mission is to provide the enabling environment,” she said, while thanking the GFF through the President for always supporting women football.
Secretary General, The Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC) Mr. Abdoulie MB Jallow noted that the involvement of girls in sports is immeasurable with great benefits, therefore, he called on all stakeholders to provide the support needed for its sustainability. He also reiterated that women should be encouraged on coaching roles than only administrative responsibilities by going through capacity building and skills training.
The President of the GFF, Mr. Lamin Kaba Bajo said it’s the first time his office has such a partnership with the European Union in support of football and described it as laudable. He assured that the Federation will not relent in its effort in promoting women football. “We recently launched women regional football leagues; participated in CAF and FIFA competitions, school competitions and the recently signed MoU with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, etc. These are all testimonies of our pledge,” he said, adding that a new chapter is restored in women’s football because football is beyond fun and fitness, rather a source of employment and career.
The EU ambassador to The Gambia, Mr. Attila Lajos described football as a global excitement that unites all and sundry, irrespective of our race, color, gender or believe. He said the European Union is a champion and committed to empowering women and girls. He urged all stakeholders to join hands to encourage women and girls in gender equality and equity and provide opportunities for them for a socio-economic development. “Young people are full of potentials and skill, it’s our responsibility to make these young people achieve,” he concluded.