By: Kemo Kanyi
The Soninke community in The Gambia is gearing up to celebrate the 2nd anniversary of the International Day of the Soninke Language, scheduled for September 25 at the Westfield Monument in Serrekunda.
Sheriff Marie Tanbadou, president of the Sumpo Do Khati youth committee, announced at a press briefing on Sunday that the celebration will showcase the rich culture, customs, and traditions of the Soninke people.
The UNESCO General Assembly in October 2023 officially proclaimed September 25 of every year as the International Day of the Soninke Language. Since then, Soninke communities across the globe, including The Gambia, have marked the occasion with pride.
“Last year, a delegation from The Gambia joined Soninke communities in Paris, while others gathered here at the Westfield Monument for a landmark celebration of our history and existence,” Tanbadou recalled.
The 2024 celebration in The Gambia featured a cultural march, meetings, talks, and a symposium, as well as exhibitions of Soninke cuisine and performances in collaboration with the National Council for Arts and Culture.
This year’s theme, “The Impact of Digital Technology on the Preservation and Promotion of the Soninke Language,” will guide the discussions and activities of the day.
Tanbadou extended an invitation to all Soninkes and the general public, both in The Gambia and abroad, to join in celebrating the occasion and supporting efforts to preserve and promote the Soninke language and culture.