“Keeper of My Heart”: Nyang Njie’s Love Letter to The Gambia

Economist and political commentator Nyang Njie on Wednesday shared a heartfelt written tribute to The Gambia, describing the country as his ‘first love’ and praising its beauty, culture, people, and landscapes. Below is his full piece as published by the author.

My Dearest Gambia,

As I sit down to pen my thoughts, my heart swells with an affection that only you can inspire. From the very first moment I set eyes upon you, I knew I had encountered something extraordinary; a love that is as deep as your meandering river and as radiant as your golden sunsets.

Oh, how you enchant me with your beauty! Each evening, the sun dips low over the Atlantic, casting a warm, golden hue that dances upon the waves, painting the horizon in shades of amber and rose. It is a sight so breathtaking, it draws me to your shores time and again, reminding me of the love wrapped in your embrace.

Your rich tapestry of cultures and flavors captivates every sense. The aroma of jollof rice wafts through the air, mingling with the spices of your delicious stews, beckoning me to indulge in the culinary symphony that defines you. Your streets hum with life, where laughter and music intertwine, telling stories that have transcended generations.

Your beaches, sandy and inviting, stretch along the coastline like a warm blanket, inviting me to bask in the sun and breathe in the scent of the ocean. The tranquility found in those moments is unparalleled; a gentle lullaby sung by the waves, urging me to forget the world and lose myself in the treasures of your heart.

And then there is your river, the lifeblood that nourishes your people, winding gracefully through your land. The tributaries that flow from it are like veins, carrying the abundance of nature to those who dwell along its banks. I marvel at how you provide so generously, offering sustenance and life, even when material wealth may elude you.

In a world that often espouses the value of dollars and cents, you remind me that true richness is found in beauty, connection, and the spirit of your people. You are a gem, a place where hearts unite and memories are forged, revealing a love that no currency can measure.

So here I am, hopelessly enamored by you, dear Gambia. You are my first love and the keeper of my heart. May our bond continue to flourish with each golden sunset that graces your shores, and may I always cherish the beauty and magic you bring to my life.

Jere jeff with all my love,

Nyang Njie