By: Binta Jaiteh
The Federation of Gambia Muslim Youths (FEGAMY) over the weekend opened its annual National Youth Camp at the Direct Aid Centre in Tubakuta, West Coast Region.
The nine-day camp brought together young people from across the country for a program aimed at nurturing leadership, strengthening faith, promoting community service, and fostering peace.
FEGAMY Board Chairman, Sheikh Omar Bojang reflected on the history of the federation, noting the growth in manpower and expertise. He described the camp as the largest gathering of the organization, which has been consistently held since its inception, except during the COVID-19 pandemic period.
“As difficult as it is, we still strive to hold this occasion. Sometimes numbers don’t matter, but quality does. History shows that those who make a difference succeed because of focus and dedication,” Sheikh Bojang said.
Khalifa Dampha, another board member, highlighted the financial challenges of organizing such events, pointing out that many participants contributed themselves to make the camp possible. “It is a sign of dedication and commitment that participants had to fund this occasion, unlike other camps that relied heavily on donors,” he remarked.
Camp Director Almameh Kanteh said this year’s gathering brought together over 100 young people; 60 females and 39 males from diverse backgrounds across the country and beyond.
“We converge here with a common purpose: to learn, to share, and to build a united generation that will lead with wisdom, responsibility, and Islamic values,” Mr. Kanteh said.
He notes that the theme of this year’s camp, “Light the Path of Peace,” serves both as a reminder and a call to action for youth to rise as ambassadors of peace, justice, and progress in a world faced with challenges of division and uncertainty.
“As FEGAMY, we believe in the power of youth to transform society. This camp is a platform for learning, nurturing leadership, strengthening faith, and fostering unity. Through lectures, dialogues, sports, cultural activities, and congress, we reaffirm our commitment to building a future rooted in peace and guided by Islamic principles,” he added.
Mr. Kanteh expressed gratitude to partners, institutions, and individuals who supported the initiative, saying their contributions reflect confidence in the potential of Gambian youth.