By: Madi Senghore
The Gambia Karate Federation (GKF) national team made history by winning four medals, including three gold and one silver, at the 6th UFAK West Africa Zone 1 Karate Championship held in Conakry, Guinea.
All four Gambian athletes who represented the country returned with medals, marking one of the nation’s most successful performances at the regional championship under national coach Mbaye Nyang.
In the Senior Men’s Kata, Edrisa Jallow captured the gold medal, while Alieu Conteh secured gold in the Cadet Men’s Kata to give The Gambia two regional titles in the discipline.
The team’s success continued in Kumite, where Fatou Nyang won gold in the Women’s 55kg category. Emmanuel Mendy completed the medal tally by claiming silver in the Men’s 71kg division.
Coach Mbaye Nyang described the achievement as a landmark moment for Gambian karate, saying it reflects the country’s growing strength and competitiveness on the regional stage.
GKF Vice President Muhammed Jagana congratulated the athletes, coaching staff, technical team, affiliated clubs and stakeholders for their contribution to the historic performance.
The success in Conakry follows another strong outing for Gambian karate, after the national team won eight medals at the recent Senegal Open, underscoring the sport’s continued progress in the country.