Banjul The Gambia, January 6, 2025 - The Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC) Executive Board recently paid a courtesy visit to the Honorable Minister of Youth and Sports. This engagement marked another milestone in our shared commitment to advancing sports development in The Gambia.
During this fruitful meeting, the GNOC emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving our shared goals, including:
1️⃣ Strategic Allocation of Funds to National Sports Associations
We applauded the Ministry’s and the National Sports Council’s (NSC) commitment to supporting national sports associations. However, we highlighted the need for a more strategic and transparent allocation of funds to align resources with performance targets and developmental priorities.
2️⃣ Participation in International Games and GNOC Events
The GNOC reaffirmed its dedication to preparing athletes for international competitions like the Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, and African Games. Early and adequate funding remains critical to maximizing success. The GNOC also discussed its ongoing capacity-building initiatives, encouraging the Ministry’s participation and support.
3️⃣ Effective Communication through the NSC
The GNOC proposed establishing a structured communication framework to enhance collaboration between the GNOC, the Ministry, and the NSC. This unified approach will ensure timely information sharing and streamlined joint planning.
4️⃣ Exploring Sports Diplomacy
With the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the GNOC aims to leverage sports diplomacy to build international partnerships, secure scholarships, and elevate Gambian athletes and administrators on the global stage.
5️⃣ Alignment with the National Sports Policy
The GNOC reiterated its commitment to aligning its strategic goals with the National Sports Policy, ensuring inclusivity, good governance, and empowerment across the sports sector.
Closing Remarks
The GNOC expressed its gratitude for the Ministry’s continued support and called for deeper collaboration to unlock the transformative power of sports in The Gambia. Together, we can inspire, unite, and elevate our nation through sports excellence.
