Sports Journalists' Association of The Gambia

22/11/2024

VOLLEYBALL: Modou Ngum's signing with UNION SPORTIVE DE TRANSPORT DE SFAX marks an exciting new chapter in his volleyball career. The Gambian international has built an impressive resume, having played in the top leagues of countries such as Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, and Senegal.

In addition, he has also represented The Gambia in both indoor and beach volleyball competitions. This new opportunity in Tunisia will not only further his growth, but also bring exposure to the sport in his home country of Gambia.

09/11/2024

The Sports Journalists’ Association of The Gambia learned the passing of Kebba Bojang, an esteemed football referee who was serving as the President of the West Coast Region Football Referees’ Association.

Kebba was known for his dedication to work and professionalism.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and the whole Gambian football community. May the Almighty grant him a place in jannah.

“Kebba was our very good friend. My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. The sports community, especially West Coast Region has lost a valuable member and he will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace,” Omar Jarju, the President of SJAG remarked

09/11/2024

The recently ended U17 championship in Senegal has sparked discussion and curiosity about the future of youth football in The Gambia.

In this report, Journalist Bubacarr Jallow Falaboweh delves into the potential impact of this tournament on the development of young Gambian football players and the overall growth of the sport in the country. He also explores the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the national teams and the local football clubs in nurturing and harnessing the potential of young talents. Overall, this report offers valuable insights and predictions on the future of Gambia’s youth football in the wake of the U17 and U20 championships. Click on the link below to read!

Gambia’s U17 and U20 teams return home with bronze medals from recent tournaments, presenting both opportunities and challenges for the future of youth football in the country. Despite late preparations for the U17 qualifiers in Senegal, the Gambian team showcased significant potential, resulting ...

09/11/2024

BASKETBALL: The Gambia U16 male basketball team has had an impressive run in the 3x3 Dakar En Jeux Basketball tournament, beating both Kenya and Algeria in the semi-finals to secure their spot in the final match against host Senegal.

The Young Gambian basketball players put on an impressive performance, showing great determination and skill throughout the tournament so far.

Can the boys outshine the host team to bring home the trophy? It’s a matter of time!

07/11/2024

The leadership of the Sports Journalists’ Association of The Gambia today met with the Deputy Ambassador of China in The Gambia Mr. Zhou Ningyu at his office in Bijilo.

The meeting was focused on exploring opportunities for sports journalism development in The Gambia through partnerships and exchanges with China.
Both parties expressed their commitment to promoting sports journalism and fostering cultural understanding through their cooperation.

The Deputy Ambassador welcomed the opportunity for cooperation and expressed his support for the development of sports journalism in the country.

Both parties look forward to working together in the future to enhance the sports media landscape in The Gambia.

03/11/2024

The President of the Sports Journalists Association of the Gambia Omar Jarju joined the media run on Saturday to raise awareness about breast cancer. This event not only promoted physical activity and a healthy lifestyle, but it also brought attention to the importance of early detection and treatment of breast cancer.

The event also served as a platform for educating the public about the risk factors and symptoms of breast cancer, and the importance of regular check-ups and screenings. By participating in this event, the President showed his support for the cause and helped spread crucial information to the community.

At the end of the run , Breast Cancer Screening was conducted by the National Cancer Control Program and ECOMIC Contingent in the Gambia.

01/11/2024

STADIUM INSPECTION UPDATE

Following the designation of the Independence Stadium for Gambia vs. Comoros AFCON 2025 qualification match, through a letter from CAF received on 24th, October, 2024, and the subsequent visit by the CAF inspector, the Gambia Football Federation (GFF) today communicated a formal letter that indicated that while all the stadium renovation has meet the CAF standards, the state of the playing pitch requires improvements to enable hosting of Category 3 Matches. Subsequently, the Gambia cannot host the match of 15th November, 2024 at the stadium.


In its letter, CAF stated “Following CAF’s inspection of Independence Stadium on October 31, 2024, we would like to commend the Government of The Gambia, the Gambia Football Federation (GFF) and the stadium management for the significant improvements across various areas of the facility, including dressing rooms, spectator stands, media zones, hospitality services, and other key structural elements. These enhancements represent a positive step forward in aligning with CAF and FIFA standard.

01/11/2024

The Gambia National Olympic Committee election is quickly approaching, and presidential candidate Muhammad Jagana is promising a new era for the organization.

“Our vision is to build a legacy of success and pride, making Gambia a beacon of sporting excellence and integrity. Together, we aim to inspire and support the next generation of athletes through cutting-edge programs and equitable opportunities, achieving greatness for our nation and its people.”

“Our Transform GNOC Initiative will revitalise our governance, setting new standards of excellence and creating a supportive environment where every athlete can thrive. We are committed to transparency, good governance, accountability, and innovative leadership as the foundation of our operations, Jagana explains.

31/10/2024

ON THE ISSUE OF INDEPENDENCE STADIUM APPROVAL

The leadership of the Sports Journalists’ Association of The Gambia is aware of the arrival of the CAF field inspector in the country since last night to examine the Independence Stadium. The inspection will determine if the stadium is ready to host games.

However, while we recognize and commend the efforts of our colleagues in the media who are working hard to inform the public with accurate information regarding the Independence Stadium, the leadership of the SJAG calls on the sports journalists to exercise caution and wait for confirmation from the CAF Inspector before reporting on the approval of the stadium.

Jumping to conclusions or spreading misinformation can lead to confusion and mistrust among fans, players, and the general public. It is the responsibility of journalists to accurately report on news and events, and waiting for official confirmation is crucial in maintaining the integrity of sports journalism.

30/10/2024

The Executive Committee of the Sports Journalists’ Association of The Gambia today paid a courtesy call on the leadership of The Gambia Football Federation at its headquarters in Kanifing.

The visit was part of the executive’s efforts to strengthen the relationship between the Sports Journalists' Association of the Gambia and the Gambia Football Federation.

Among the issues discussed are, access to information, fair and accurate reporting, and the overall relationship between the sports press and the federation. The meeting was productive and both parties expressed their commitment to working together towards developing Gambian football, and potential joint initiatives and events that could benefit both the Sports Journalists' Association of the Gambia and the Gambia Football Federation.

The meeting was concluded with a renewed sense of cooperation and a shared vision for the future of sports journalism in the Gambia.

27/10/2024

The Executive Committee of the Sports Journalists’ Association of The Gambia today met to discuss and approve an activity plan for the upcoming year.

Through careful deliberation, the executive adopted an exciting and engaging activity plan that aims to promote ethical and responsible sports journalism, while also providing opportunities for professional growth and networking among members. The Executive committee is confident that this activity plan will benefit both the association and its members in achieving their goals.

26/10/2024

GNOC Elections: Nominees Unveiled, Bai Dodou Jallow Leading In Nominations

Bai Dodou Jallow, The President of The Gambia Volleyball Federation currently holds the lead in nominations for the upcoming Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC) elections. He has been nominated for the position of President by ten (10) Olympic Sports Associations, six(6) non-Olympic sports associations, including few influential Olympic bodies.

On the other hand, Jallow’s primary opponent, Muhammad Jagana received nominations from seven Olympic Sports Associations.

Jagana is the 1st Vice President of The Gambia Karate Association, and it is important to note that his Karate Association did not endorse his candidacy. However, in a notable shortfall, none of the Non-Olympic Sports Associations also backed Jagana’s bid. This factor may challenge his campaign to gain wider acceptance within the GNOC electorate.

In an unusual turn, Mr Lamin King Colley, President of the Gambia Handball Association, has been nominated as the 1st Vice President of both teams. However, his association did not back Mr. Jagana’s candidacy. This dual nomination has raised eyebrows, as Colley’s presence on both slates hints at complex strategic alliances and underscores the intricate political landscape of the GNOC election.

Three associations — the Gambia National Paralympics Committee (GNPC), Special Olympics, and the Gambia Chess Association have not put forward any nominations. Meanwhile, reports indicate that University Sports and Combined Services Associations are removed from the voter list, though confirmation of these adjustments is pending, as these changes could influence voting dynamics.

The November 23rd election results could substantially impact the direction of the GNOC in the years ahead, as both candidates have proposed distinct visions for Gambian sports.

Below is the team led by Muhammad Jagana.

1. Muhammad M. Jagana – President
2. Lamin King Colley - 1st Vice President
3. Saul Frazer – 2nd Vice President
4. Fatim Badjie - Secretary General
5. Mass Manjang – Treasurer
6. Members: Timothy Colley, Gheran Senghore, Momodou S. Ceesay.

Here is the team led by Bai Dodou Jallow.

1. Bai Dodou Jallow – President
2. Lamin King Colley - 1st Vice President
3. Bakary K. Jammeh – 2nd Vice President
4. Yorro Njie - Secretary General
5. Bai Madi Ceesay – Treasurer
6. Bakeba BKS Susso – Member
7. Abdoulie Kah – Member
8. Amie Jabang - Member

14/10/2024

Developing a strong youth football system is crucial for the success of any football federation. It not only ensures a steady flow of talented players for the various national team categories, but is also promotes the growth and sustainability of the game in the country.

In this report, Baboucarr Fallaboweh explains how quick fixes are not the solution to developing our football. Without a functional youth system, our football will never progress. Click on the link below to read.

Most of us who write about the affairs of our football do so out of good faith. We all want The Gambia to succeed, and that’s why, as journalists, it is our duty to hold those responsible for steering the affairs of our football accountable. One would have imagined that, after The Gambia was banne...

13/10/2024

The Serrekunda East Sports Development Organization has announced plans to construct a second ‘Democracy’ pavilion in their stadium, with a budget of over a million dalasis. This pavilion will provide a modern and a comfortable space for spectators during football games.

These pavilions, according to the President of the Serekunda East Sports Development Organisation Yusupha Cham, will lead to an increase in revenue for the sports organisation. “The organisation is set to gain more revenue at gate takings, he said.

“With the new democracy pavilion, we are only charging thirty dalasi per game. “Now when the second one is completed and that’s going to be around next season, we will increase it to fifty dalasi from both the VIP or Cover end and the two Democracy Pavilion areas. This will generate more revenue for SESDO and the teams will receive more money as their percentages at the end of every game, Cham explains.

The pavilions are expected to attract more spectators to games, creating more vibrant and lively atmosphere.
📸SESDO

13/10/2024

The GNOC Elections: Beatrice To Step Down, Who is Taking Over?

As the Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC) prepares for its upcoming elections, all eyes are on the current President, Beatrice Allen, who will be stepping down. The long-serving board member of the GNOC has declared her intention not to seek re-election. She made this announcement following the failure of the first GNOC Annual General Meeting held in December last year.

The seasoned sports administrator has been a pillar of the GNOC since she was elected Vice President in 2009. She has also represented The Gambia internationally as a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) since 2006. She currently serves as Vice President of the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC), a role she has held since 2017.

In a recorded interview with Lamin Fadera of AfriRadio, Ms. Allen expressed her desire to step aside and allow new leadership to emerge, stating her decision not to contest again for the highest position at the GNOC.

Speculations are high on who is going to be the next leader of the GNOC, with names such as Muhammad Jagana and Bai Dodou Jallow being thrown into the mix.

As the fifth president of the GNOC after it was recognized by the International Olympic Committee in 1976, Allen succeeded a lineage of distinguished leaders, beginning with Abou Dandeh Njie.

However, the last year AGM that was intended to hear out reports and map the direction of the GNOC for 2024, was derailed by objections from delegates who claimed their requests were omitted from the program guide and protested the inclusion of hockey on the agenda. After five hours of intense debate, the meeting concluded in a deadlock, with 24 delegates voting against the agenda while 18 were in favour.

The election is sure to bring about significant changes and potentially shape the future of Olympic Sports in The Gambia.

The GNOC election is scheduled for the 23rd of November 2024.

11/10/2024

In our ongoing meetings with the Local Sports Committees, this evening the Executive of the Sports Journalist’s Association of the Gambia (SJAG) met with the Manjai Sports Committee to discuss significant issues concerning the welfare of our members, collaboration areas among other activities.

Both parties highlighted the importance of the press in promoting Sports in the community of Manjai and its surroundings. We discussed the existing relationship between Manjai Sports Committee and SJAG .

The meeting capped off on a positive note as both parties show ready to closely work together for the greater good.

11/10/2024

WILL GAMBIA QUALIFY FOR THE 2025 AFRICA CUP OF NATION?�
Written by: Sarjo Baldeh-AIPS Young Reporter, 2nd VP SJAG.


New Leadership: Jonathan McKinstry’s Impact

The appointment of Jonathan McKinstry as Gambia’s head coach in May 2024 brought a fresh perspective to the Scorpions. As a coach with a track record across various African nations, McKinstry’s arrival was seen as a major boost to Gambia’s ambitions for AFCON 2025. His emphasis on tactical discipline and integrating new talents into the squad has sparked optimism among fans. However, the results in the qualifiers so far indicate that while his leadership is promising, time and cohesion will be crucial for the squad to perform at their best under his system.


Challenges with Squad Overhaul: Integrating New Players

With McKinstry at the Lead, Gambia has seen an arrivals of new players into the national team. This shift is aimed at strengthening the squad and providing depth. However, the transition has proven challenging, as these fresh faces adjust to the pressures of international football. Building chemistry among the new recruits and the existing core of players remains a key concern, and it may take a few more matches for the team to gel effectively on the pitch. The lack of immediate results, including a 1-1 draw with Comoros and a 2-1 loss to Tunisia, suggests there is work to be done.

In today’s match against Madagascar, Gambia suffered another drew 1-1, leaving fans frustrated. The lack of goals and consistency in defense have become major barriers to the team’s qualification hopes.


“The boys are struggling to impress in the field of play in the post Tom Saintfeith era. The football they play is not attractive and there is no sign of hunger in the boys. We have now conceded at least a goal in 12 straight matches since March 2023. This tells you a lot about the attitude and the laziness in the team. Coach Johnathan Mckinstry is tasked with the responsibility to qualify us to the next AFCON in Morocco but with the way things are unfolding, the chances are getting slimmer every game.

With due respect to Madagascar, looking into our past history in the AFCON, they should not be a problem to us specially considering the caliber of players in our disposal.
A disappointing draw it is and hoping we can turn things around starting Monday with the same opponent.” Babucarr Sey



Struggles in the AFCON 2025 Qualifiers: Lack of Wins

The Scorpions’ journey through the AFCON 2025 qualifiers has been tough, with no wins recorded so far. A tight 1-1 draw against Comoros showed glimpses of potential, but the subsequent 2-1 defeat to Tunisia highlighted areas that need urgent improvement. The inability to convert performances into victories is a major hurdle, especially with stronger teams on the horizon. If Gambia is to secure their place in the AFCON, the team must find a way to turn close matches into wins while addressing their defensive lapses and improving their attacking efficiency.


Path Forward: Can Gambia Still Qualify?
Despite the current challenges, Gambia’s qualification campaign is far from over. With several matches still to be played, the Scorpions have the opportunity to regroup and find their form. Coach McKinstry’s tactical adjustments, combined with the development of the new players, will be key in turning the tide. The team needs to capitalize on upcoming fixtures and show resilience if they are to qualify for AFCON 2025. Gambia’s footballing future hangs in the balance, but with determination and better ex*****on, the dream of reaching the tournament is still within reach.


Coach McKinstry has encouraged the players to play with passion and to take control of their destiny. “Football is a cruel game and sometimes doesn’t give you what you want. We are going to take it by force,” McKinstry told GFF media in a pre match conference. He has also emphasized honesty and empowerment within the squad, urging players to mentor one another and stay focused. Gambia’s future remains uncertain, but with resilience and tactical adjustments, the dream of reaching AFCON 2025 is still possible.

09/10/2024

The Executive Members of the Sports Journalists’ Association of the Gambia today paid a courtesy call on the Youth and Sports Minister Bakary Y. Badjie to discuss current issues and concerns related to sports journalism.

The meeting provided an opportunity for open dialogue and collaboration between the government and the association, with the goal of promoting the development and growth of sports journalism in the country.

Overall, the meeting was productive in exploring opportunities for partnership and cooperation between the ministry and the association, as the Minister expressed his support for the association and its efforts to promote fair and ethical reporting.