By Kebba Secka
The Management Development Institute (MDI), with support from the Chinese Embassy in Banjul and other partners, held its second edition of the Diplomacy and Cultural Day on Wednesday, May 14, 2025. The daylong festival showcased The Gambia’s rich cultural heritage, aiming to foster peace, diplomacy, and international relations through cultural expression.
The concept of an academic Cultural Day was initiated by Pullo Ndow-Njie, Head of Diplomacy and International Relations at MDI. This year’s event, themed “Unity in Diversity,” brought together students, diplomats, academics, and security officials from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
In her opening remarks, Ndow-Njie highlighted the historic role of culture in diplomacy and conflict resolution. She emphasised the importance of embracing diversity and using The Gambia’s cultural wealth as a diplomatic tool.
“It is important for us to embrace diversity. We need to embrace and accommodate diversity today more than ever. Today, we’re gathered here with different ethnic groups—the Jolas, Fulas, Manjago, to name a few. We are gathered to showcase our cultural diversification. As a department that trains diplomats, it is important to inculcate tolerance in diversity, make real peace mediators, and promote Gambia’s international relations,” she said.
Ndow-Njie also stressed the responsibility of academic institutions in nurturing both national and international cultural identity. “We can’t promote our culture around the globe if we fail to embrace our own cultures. Diplomacy is a powerful tool that can be used to promote our identity and national interests. This will help promote nationalism and patriotism,” she said, commending The Gambia’s strong bilateral ties with China and Turkey.
Ambassador Dembo Badgie, a conflict analyst and strategist in international relations and diplomacy, served as the event’s guest speaker. He voiced concern over the current political climate, describing it as troubling.
“I must say that today’s Gambia, there are too many creatures, too many so-called radical experts, too many so-called activists, power influencers, and political fabrication on national issues. The political space is being used to spread all kinds of political bigotry, rivalry, hatred, and bitterness,” he stated.
Ambassador Badgie called for unity beyond tribal, religious, or political lines, noting that such solidarity would foster a resilient and cohesive society.
“When you meet people today with love and respect, they might be your saviour tomorrow. I’m saying this in the context that we are a small country where people are related either by blood, family ties, or friendships,” he said.
The celebration was vibrant, with students grouped by ethnic affiliation showcasing traditional dances, attire, and culinary presentations. A panel of judges evaluated the groups based on cultural display, food, and dance. The Jola cultural troupe emerged as the winner of the 2025 edition.
Adama Njie, Registrar of MDI, delivered the closing remarks, expressing gratitude to all cultural troupes, dignitaries, and the management of the Institute for making the event a success.
Distinguished guests included Mam Fatou A. Barry, Deputy Director of Civil Services at the University of The Gambia, the Deputy Chinese Ambassador, the Turkish Ambassador, the Mayor of Banjul, and senior security officials.
