By: Kemo Kanyi
The Gambia Football Federation (GFF) on Saturday, 16th August 2025, launched a five-day FIFA Member Association (MA) referees course at the National Technical Training Centre (NTTC) in Old Yundum.
The course brings together 36 elite referees, including eight women, for advanced training and development.
Opening the course, GFF First Vice President Bakary K. Jammeh praised Gambian referees for their professionalism both locally and internationally. He urged participants to maximize the opportunity.
“There can be no football without referees, and no football development without their contribution. This is why the GFF has prioritized refereeing in our National Football Development Plan,” Mr. Jammeh said.
He also highlighted the growing number of Gambian referees appointed for international matches and tournaments by WAFU-A, CAF, and FIFA. Mr. Jammeh assured participants that the GFF, under the leadership of President Lamin Kaba Bajo, will continue to support referees’ welfare. He also thanked the course director, Carlos Luise Henriques, and extended appreciation to CAF and FIFA for their continued support.
Course Director Mr. Henriques thanked the GFF for its warm reception and encouraged referees to remain disciplined and dedicated throughout the training.
The President of the Gambia Football Referees Association, John Frank Mendy, confirmed that all participants had passed the fitness test and thanked President Bajo and the GFF executive for their support in developing referees in the country.