By: Kemo Kanyi
The Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC) has celebrated this year’s World Olympic Day with a colourful event held over the weekend in Basse, Upper River Region.
The celebration, which brought together athletes, schoolchildren, and community members, was part of global efforts to promote the Olympic Movement and its values of excellence, friendship, and respect.
Speaking at the event, GNOC President Bai Dodou Jallow said Olympic Day is much more than a sports event it is a call to action for people of all ages and backgrounds to get active, learn about Olympic values, and discover new things about themselves and their communities.
“The celebration of Olympic Day continues to create greater awareness of the Olympic Movement and the ideals of Olympism in The Gambia and the world at large,” Jallow told participants.
“Olympic Day is therefore an excellent way to encourage all people, regardless of age, gender and ability, to lead healthy and active lives; promote the Olympic values; and recognise the role of sport in society,” he added.
Held every year on June 23 to commemorate the founding of the modern Olympic Games in 1894, this year’s theme was “Let’s Move.”
According to Jallow, this theme is especially relevant today, with social isolation and inactivity emerging as serious public health challenges globally. He explained that by promoting inclusive, community-based physical activity, sport can play a major role in improving physical health, building social bonds, and enhancing mental well-being.
“This campaign highlights the positive impact that community sport and physical activity have on physical, mental and social health,” Jallow said. “It also contributes to the IOC’s Olympism365 strategy on sport, health and active communities.”
Jallow reaffirmed the GNOC’s commitment to improving the physical and mental well-being of young people not only athletes by providing high-quality, inclusive and innovative sporting opportunities. He especially emphasised the importance of encouraging girls and people with physical or intellectual disabilities to participate in sport.