By: Fatou Krubally
The Gambia on Saturday joined the rest of the world in celebrating World Tourism Day, with a renewed call for sustainable transformation in the sector to boost economic growth, create jobs, and preserve the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Held under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” the commemoration brought together stakeholders from the Ministry of Tourism, the Gambia Tourism Board (GTBoard), the National Centre for Arts and Culture, hotel associations, tour operators, and local entrepreneurs.
Speaking at the event, Musa Dem, Package Development Manager and spokesperson of the GTBoard, described the day as “historic,” noting that it was the first time The Gambia officially marked World Tourism Day. “Tourism contributes significantly to our GDP and employment. It cuts across every sector health, agriculture, culture, and education. By celebrating this day, we reaffirm our commitment to reposition Destination Gambia beyond the traditional sun, sand, and sea, by tapping into our cultural heritage, nature, and river-based tourism,” he said.
As part of activities, participants planted coconut trees along the Palma Rima beach, a symbolic gesture aimed at promoting environmental sustainability. “Tree planting is not only about greening the environment, but also about safeguarding our future and ensuring tourism thrives in a healthy ecosystem,” Dem stressed.
Lamin Drammeh, a lecturer at the University of The Gambia and tourism researcher, echoed the importance of sustainability. “Tourism is a chain that links everyone from hotels and tour operators to women in the markets, juice sellers, and artisans. Protecting the environment and working together is the only way we can sustain it,” he said.
For his part, Mamat Sallah, Director of Cultural Heritage at the NCAC, highlighted tourism’s role in promoting Gambian culture. “Tourism does not only contribute to GDP but also helps preserve our identity. Tourists come here for our heritage sites, music, and traditions. Today’s coconut tree planting is a fitting symbol of resilience and sustainability,” he said, commending GTBoard for bringing all stakeholders under one umbrella.
The event concluded with a pledge to expand future celebrations to the regions, reflecting the GTBoard’s commitment to inclusive tourism development across the country.
As the “Smiling Coast of Africa” embraces sustainable tourism, stakeholders believe this year’s commemoration has laid the foundation for transforming The Gambia into a more competitive and resilient destination.
