A volleyball game at the Independence Stadium, Bakau, photo credit (Gambia Volleyball Association)
By Cecilia E.L. Mendy
For decades, volleyball in The Gambia has struggled to rise in prominence, hindered by financial constraints, inadequate infrastructure, societal stereotypes, and limited economic opportunities for athletes. These challenges have derailed the dreams of many young Gambians aspiring to play professionally, pushing them to seek alternative livelihoods.
Despite these hurdles, a new generation of volleyball players is making waves, particularly in beach volleyball and indoor competitions. In 2019, the Gambia men’s beach volleyball team won gold at the African Games in Rabat, Morocco, and subsequently qualified for the 2023 African Games. The indoor volleyball team has also recorded notable successes, including winning the Zone II Championship, earning them a spot in continental competitions.
However, volleyball in The Gambia continues to face systemic challenges. Poor training facilities, low player wages, and limited professional opportunities remain significant barriers. Female players, in particular, confront societal pressures and stereotypes that undermine their participation in the sport.
For many, volleyball is more than a game—it is a passion, a struggle, and, for some, a lifeline. The sport fosters community, provides opportunities for advocacy, and highlights the importance of empowering female athletes.
Sainabou Tambedou, Assistant Superintendent of the Gambia Police Force, a single mother, and a leading figure in women’s volleyball, shared her journey in the sport. She recounted how early love for volleyball during her school years propelled her to play for prominent national teams.
“I faced numerous challenges from the community and individuals who believed sports are meant for men,” Tambedou said. “These stereotypes ended the careers of many of my peers and, at times, affected me personally. Being a woman in sports is still viewed differently, especially in a society influenced by cultural beliefs.”
Tambedou also pointed to the lack of proper facilities as a major obstacle: “The court we use is actually a basketball court, shared with the basketball federation. We only have access when it is free.” She called on the volleyball federation and other stakeholders to collaborate and invest in standardized infrastructure to advance the sport in the country.
A Gambian Woman playing volleyball at international level, photo credit (Gambia volleyball federation)
Bai Dodou Jallow, President of the Gambia Volleyball Federation (GVF), echoed these concerns, citing limited public and private sector support as key reasons for the slow growth of volleyball in the country. “Preference has been given to other sports in terms of finance and infrastructure,” Jallow said. “Volleyball continues to grapple with limited resources and insufficient financial incentives, despite our athletes representing The Gambia internationally.”
Jallow urged the government and stakeholders to support the federation through funding, professional coaching, and youth development programs to enable more Gambians to pursue volleyball as a career.
Sheikh Omar Badjie, head coach of the national volleyball team, described both the rewards and challenges of coaching young players. “Coaching goes beyond teaching the game—it involves mentoring, motivating, and sometimes supporting players off the court. It is challenging but incredibly rewarding to see their dedication and progress,” he said. Badjie also emphasized that the lack of standard courts and training facilities hinders performance and increases the risk of injury. He called on authorities, including the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, to prioritize constructing proper volleyball facilities nationwide.
The story of volleyball in The Gambia reflects broader national issues: gender dynamics, youth aspirations, and resilience in the face of neglect. While challenges remain, the recent achievements of Gambian athletes on the continental stage offer hope that increased visibility and investment could transform volleyball into a source of national pride and inspiration