Kai Len Jenda

26/10/2025

25/09/2025

NYSS Leadership Meets NSC to Chart New Path for Youth and Sports

The Executive Director of the National Youth Service Scheme (NYSS), Mr. Mustapha Badjie on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the National Sports Council (NSC) headquarters in Bakau. He was accompanied by the newly appointed Deputy Executive Director of NYSS, Ms Lala Touray, and the NYSS Communication Specialist.

The visit aimed to formally introduce Ms Lala Touray to the NSC leadership and to discuss potential areas of collaboration between the two institutions under the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

The NYSS delegation was warmly received by the Acting Executive Director of the NSC, Mr. Mahmoud L. Jawla, alongside key management staff including Mr. Malang S. Kongira, Finance and Administrative Manager, and Mr. Sara Camara, Communication and Public Relations Manager.

During the meeting, both institutions underscored their commitment to strengthening ties and working jointly to promote youth and sports development in The Gambia. They also outlined specific areas of collaboration that will enhance the collective efforts of the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

The courtesy visit was described as fruitful, with both Directors reaffirming their dedication to fostering stronger partnerships and driving impactful initiatives for the betterment of Gambian youth and sports.

05/09/2025

Deaf Scorpions Land in Banjul with Historic Silver Triumph

The Gambia’s Deaf National Football Team, the Deaf Scorpions, returned home on Wednesday night after their remarkable campaign at the 13th Edition of the West Africa Deaf Football Championship in Abuja, Nigeria, where they clinched a historic silver medal.

Arriving at Banjul International Airport, the team — made up of a 13-man squad and two officials — were warmly received by Sara Camara, Communication and Public Relations Manager at the National Sports Council (NSC), who welcomed them on behalf of both the NSC and the Ministry of Youth and Sports (MoYS).

The Deaf Scorpions came back with an impressive list of achievements for The Gambia, including:
• 1 Gold Medal 🥇
• Silver Medals 🥈
• 1 Fair Play Trophy 🏆
• A Letter of Commendation recognizing them as the Most Disciplined Team of the tournament

Speaking during the reception, Sara Camara praised the team’s resilience and determination, noting that their success was a true reflection of The Gambia’s growing spirit in sports.

“On behalf of the National Sports Council and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, we are proud of the Deaf Scorpions’ historic achievement. Despite all challenges, you represented our nation with courage, discipline, and pride,” Camara said.

The Deaf Scorpions’ campaign in Nigeria has been hailed nationwide as a victory for inclusion, resilience, and sports development. Their silver medal finish — achieved with one of the smallest squads in the tournament — stands as a testament to Gambian perseverance and the government’s support through MoYS.

03/09/2025

Pahali Secka & Arubii Receive NCM Prize Money

The long-awaited prize money for the National Competitive Music Festival (NCM) was officially disbursed today, Wednesday, September 3, 2025, by the National Sports Council (NSC) to the three winners during a ceremony held at the Independence Stadium in Bakau.

The NCM, held in February 2025 at QCity, is a joint initiative between Joluv Arts, led by Saul Sowe, and the National Sports Council (NSC). The festival was created to discover, nurture, and showcase young Gambian talent through regional auditions leading up to a spectacular grand finale.

02/09/2025

NSC Program Manager Accompanies Scorpions as Training Begins in Nairobi

The Gambia National Football Team, the Scorpions, held their first training session of the international window on Tuesday under the guidance of Head Coach Jonathan McKinstry at the Kasarani Sports Complex in Nairobi, Kenya.

The session, which focused on tactical drills and physical conditioning, marked the start of the team’s preparations for their crucial FIFA World Cup Qualifiers fixture against Kenya on Friday.

Present at the training ground was the National Sports Council’s Program Manager, Ebrima Secka, who is traveling with the team as part of the official Gambian delegation. His presence underscores the Council’s continued support to the national team as they aim to make history in the qualifiers.

In addition to the technical staff and players, Gambian students residing in Kenya turned out at the venue to show their support. Their presence added a spirited atmosphere as they cheered the Scorpions through their drills.

The team is scheduled to continue training at the Kasarani Sports Complex tomorrow morning as preparations intensify ahead of the showdown with the Harambee Stars.

Photo Credit GFF Media

02/09/2025

Deaf Scorpions Set to Return Home with Historic Medals and Honors from Abuja

The Gambia’s Deaf National Football Team, the Deaf Scorpions, are scheduled to arrive at Banjul International Airport on Thursday, 4th September 2025 at 11:45 PM, following their outstanding campaign at the 13th Edition of the West Africa Deaf Football Championship in Abuja, Nigeria.

The 13-man squad, accompanied by two officials, will be returning with a remarkable collection of achievements that have placed The Gambia firmly on the map of Deaf Sports in the subregion. Their honors include:
1. Gold Medal 🥇
2. Twenty-Five (25) Silver Medals 🥈
3. One (1) Silver Fair Play Trophy 🏆
4. Letter of Commendation as the Most Disciplined Team of the Tournament

This marks the first time The Gambia has reached such a level of recognition in the championship, making their participation a historic milestone for Gambian sports.

In a message of appreciation, Lamin M. Ceesay, National President of the Gambia Deaf Sports Association and Vice President of the West Africa Deaf Sports Union (WADSU), lauded the Government of The Gambia through the Ministry of Youth and Sports (MoYS), parents of players, stakeholders, journalists, and all Gambians for their prayers and support.

“We are thrilled with the success recorded during the just-concluded championship, and we attribute this to the selfless service and dedication of our government, families, volunteers, and partners. Their tireless efforts and commitment to excellence were instrumental in making this event memorable,” Ceesay said.

Ceesay further extended appreciation to the Nigeria Deaf Sports Federation (NDSF) and WADSU for organizing the event and providing The Gambia the platform to showcase its discipline, resilience, and sporting talent on the international stage.

The Deaf Scorpions’ journey to the final — achieved with a lean squad of only 13 players — captured the hearts of Gambians everywhere, earning them admiration and respect. As they prepare to return home, they will be welcomed as true heroes who carried the Gambian spirit of determination and pride to new heights.

28/08/2025

Deaf Scorpions Defy Odds to Reach Final in Abuja After Stunning 2–0 Win Over Liberia! 🇬🇲🏆

The Gambia’s Deaf National Football Team, the Deaf Scorpions, have written another proud chapter in Gambian sports history after defeating Liberia 2–0 in the semi-finals of the 13th Edition of the West African Deaf Football Tournament 2025 in Abuja, Nigeria.

Despite coming into the match with just a 13-man squad against Liberia’s 18 players, the Gambians showed heart, discipline, and determination to seal a famous victory that sends them into the grand final. The win guarantees The Gambia at least a silver medal, but the Deaf Scorpions now have their eyes firmly set on gold as they prepare to face host nation Nigeria’s Deaf Eagles on Saturday, 30th August 2025 at 3:00PM.

The triumph came at a cost, however. Defensive rock Ebrima Conteh sustained an injury and may not feature in the final, while striker Masanneh Samureh, who has been carrying a knock, is also struggling ahead of the showdown. Still, the players have vowed to keep fighting for their motherland, determined to fly The Gambia’s flag at the highest stage.

“Indeed, it is not easy, but the struggle continues,” the squad declared, as they thanked the Government of The Gambia through the Ministry of Youth and Sports (MOYS) for the D1 Million support that made their participation possible. They also extended gratitude to Gambians everywhere for keeping them in prayers and holding them close at heart.

In the other semi-final, Nigeria beat Niger Republic 2–0 to book their place in the final. The fixtures now line up as follows:

Semi-Final Results
27/08/2025: Nigeria 2–0 Niger Republic
28/08/2025: Liberia 0–2 The Gambia

Upcoming Fixtures
29/08/2025: Third Place Playoff – Niger Republic vs Liberia (4:00 PM)
30/08/2025: Final – Nigeria vs The Gambia (3:00 PM)

The stage is set for an electrifying final in Abuja. With courage, resilience, and national pride, the Deaf Scorpions are ready to challenge the mighty hosts — proving once again that Gambian sports can rise above all odds.

22/08/2025

NSC Welcomes International Grand Master Stefan Mačák

The Acting Executive Director of the National Sports Council, Mr. Mahmoud L. Jawla, today welcomed International Grand Master Stefan Mačák, originally from Slovakia and now based in the United Kingdom, at his office in Bakau.

GM Mačák shared his inspiring journey of promoting chess across Africa and expressed his commitment to extending this mission to The Gambia.

During his stay, he will conduct chess trainings across the country, reaching schools, communities, and players of all levels. He has also pledged to generously donate chess sets, books, and software to help strengthen the foundation and growth of chess in The Gambia.

Mr. Jawla described the visit as an exciting moment for Gambian chess, underscoring the NSC’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote intellectual and sporting excellence.

The National Sports Council, in collaboration with the Gambia Chess Federation, looks forward to working with IM Mačák to inspire young minds and nurture future talent.

15/08/2025

PRESS RELEASE
Banjul, The Gambia 15th August 2025

Update on Independence Stadium Pitch Upgrade and supply of equipment

The National Sports Council (NSC) wishes to provide clarifications regarding the planned upgrading of the Stadium’s hybrid pitch, following recent public discussions around the project.

The NSC acknowledges an ongoing process to hire a foreign company through a subcontractor arrangement that meets requirements of our procurement laws to assist in upgrading and maintain the pitch. NSC however emphasizes that the hybrid pitch installed at the beginning of the stadium remodelling remains in place and has never been removed, nor is the foreign company going to re-install a new pitch, as has been speculated. Their mandate focuses on:

1. Supplying specialized maintenance equipment which are available in the country.

2. Rehabilitating the existing pitch, treating fungal infections, and correcting uneven surfaces (conditions that were as a result of lack of proper equipment and skilled personnel to carry our required routine functions as would be of a hybrid pitch).

3. Training local staff on proper pitch upkeep techniques, including operation of the new machinery.

The contractor, upon completing the above primary assignment, will remain in The Gambia for two months to ensure full knowledge transfer and capacity building among local staff.

“The NSC acknowledges past challenges in pitch maintenance and the Ministry has introduced robust measures to prevent similar issues in the future,” said NSC Communications and PR Manager, Sara Camara. “By prioritizing equipment procurement and staff training, we aim to ensure sustainable, long-term care of the pitch without reliance on external expertise.”

30/07/2025

From Heartbreak to History: Gambia’s Golden Boys Shine in Algeria

Annaba, Algeria – July 30, 2025 — Out of the ashes of heartbreak, a miracle was born. The Gambia Basketball Association has delivered an unforgettable chapter in the nation’s sporting history — one written in resilience, unity, and triumph.

Still reeling from the emotional aftermath of a tragic car accident that shook their junior team, Gambia’s young basketballers found the strength to transform sorrow into strength. In a stunning display of determination, they stormed the courts of Annaba to clinch gold at the inaugural African School Games.

This wasn’t just a win. It was a statement — a tribute to their fallen teammates, a declaration of hope, and a shining symbol of Gambian pride.

With each dribble, pass, and shot, these boys honored their brothers, lifting not only a trophy but also the spirit of an entire nation. Their 3x3 basketball gold medal is now a beacon — a symbol of what Gambians can achieve when given the chance and the challenge.

Across sports — from basketball to athletics and swimming — Gambian athletes are proving that they belong among Africa’s elite. This victory is a reflection of years of preparation, commitment, and belief in the power of sports to unite, heal, and elevate.

For the next four years, Gambia will proudly hold this title. But the true victory lies in the inspiration these boys have given to every young Gambian: that from tragedy can come triumph, and from pain, greatness.

Credit : GRTS, Basket220 and GNOC

27/07/2025

Dominant Start for Gambia at ANOCA School Games: U18 Beach Volleyball Teams Crush Ghana and Benin

Gambia has made an electrifying start at the inaugural ANOCA School Games in Algeria, with both the U18 boys’ and girls’ beach volleyball teams delivering emphatic straight-set victories in their opening pool matches.

In the girls’ category, the dynamic duo of Hoja Njie and Mariama Sambou overwhelmed Ghana with a commanding performance, taking the first set 21-7 before sealing the match in style with a 21-9 second set win. Their precision, coordination, and confidence on the sand left no room for doubt — The Gambia is here to compete at the highest level.

Meanwhile, the boys’ team, featuring Modou Kanyi and Mustapha Bah, showed equal dominance against Benin. The pair cruised to a 21-10, 21-9 victory, showcasing strong teamwork, resilience, and sharp net play.

These victories not only mark a promising start for The Gambia but also send a strong message to other contenders in the competition. The ANOCA School Games, which bring together young sporting talents from across Africa, provide a valuable platform for these athletes to shine and represent their nations with pride.

With the energy and momentum now firmly on their side, Team Gambia’s youth beach volleyball squads are set to make deeper runs into the tournament, carrying the hopes of a proud nation behind them.

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