In recognition of their efforts and achievements, the Government of The Gambia has rewarded the country’s Olympic athletes with a D1.5 million qualification bonus. This gesture underscores the nation’s commitment to support her sportsmen and women who represented The Gambia at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
During a ceremony held at the Vice President’s office in State House, Vice President Muhammad B. S. Jallow welcomed the delegates and athletes and acknowledged their hard work and determination. Although the athletes did not return with medals, he highlighted their accomplishments including breaking national records and increasing The Gambia’s presence at the Olympics from a single athlete to seven, which he said is a significant achievement for the country.
“The amount given to the athletes is a token of our appreciation,” the Vice President remarked and continued: “We wish it could be more, but the economic realities of our country limits us. Nevertheless, the issue of sport funding is being actively discussed at the cabinet level.”
Lamin Jawara, Chairperson of the National Sport Council (NSC) expressed deep appreciation for the athletes’ performances and thanked the government for its unwavering support. He highlighted the continuous efforts to develop sport in the country and noted the importance of the long-standing collaboration between the government, the NSC and the Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC).
In his remarks, Mr. Jawara said, ‘‘the success of the Gambian delegation is a testament to the strong partnership between all stakeholders in Gambian sport. We are proud of our athletes and encourage them to continue to strive for excellence as they represent our country on the global stage.”
Yoro Njie, Secretary General of the GNOC, also expressed his gratitude to the government, particularly the Ministry of Youth and Sport, and the National Sport Council. He emphasized that the long-term relationship between these entities has been crucial to the success that the Gambian athletes are now achieving, and encouraged the athletes to continue their exceptional performances for the country, by appealing for even more support to sustain and build upon these achievements.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Youth and Sport, Ndey Marie Njie, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Youth and Sports conveyed the nation’s pride to the athletes. She commended the team for their dedication and participation, revealing that the government had fully funded the 7 million dalasi budget for the Paris Olympic Games. She emphasized the government’s commitment to youth empowerment, which she said is reflected in their investment in sport.
“The motive of visiting the Vice President is to show appreciation to the athletes for their performance in the Olympics by presenting them with a cheque of D1.5 million. This is meant for six athletes, in addition to the One million dalasi already awarded to Gina Mariama Bass for her gold medal wins at the All-Africa Games in Ghana, and her qualification to the Olympics,” the Permanent Secretary stated.
Aminata Nia-Maria Barrow, Gambian swimmer, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the Gambia government for their support. She shared her excitement and optimism about the future of Gambian sports particularly for women, despite this being her first time representing the country.
While the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris did not yield any medals for The Gambia, the athletes’ performances were marked by determination and promise. Gina Mariama Bass, who had recently secured gold in the 100m and 200m at the All-Africa Games, was unable to replicate her success on the Olympic stage. However, sprinter Ebrima Camara broke a national record in the Men’s 100m, and Sanu Jallow set a new national record in the 800-meters event.
The Gambia’s campaign at the Olympics, which also saw participation in swimming, judo and taekwondo, may not have brought home medals, but it demonstrated the nation’s growing presence and potential on the world stage.
And as The Gambia continues to invest in her athletes, hopes remain high for future international competitions.
