BAYDA hails supporters after festival success

By Dawda Baldeh

The Balanta Youth Development Association (BAYDA) has thanked communities, sponsors and dignitaries for their role in the success of its recent Football and Cultural Festival.

In a statement, BAYDA praised the strong turnout and support that made the event “historic and memorable,” giving special recognition to sponsors including Amadou Sanneh of the NPP, the Gambia Minority Association, and Hon. Alagie S. Darboe, National Assembly Member for Brikama North.

The communities of Gunjur and Kajabang were commended for their hospitality in hosting the tournament, which saw Jarra Soma crowned champions. BAYDA congratulated the players, coaches and supporters, and praised the sports committee for delivering a transparent, well‑coordinated competition free of violence.

BAYDA President John Mayo used the occasion to call for unity and civic responsibility, saying: “If you are a Balanta in The Gambia, come and take part, this is where you belong.”

The association announced preparations are already underway for its next major event, the Cultural Festival in June.