Women, Youth Groups Receive Donated Materials

By Abdoulie Nget

Five women groups from various communities namely, Faji Kunda, Tallinding, Banjul, Brusubi and Sutukoba has each benefitted from a sewing machine.

The youth of these communities were also provided with football materials.   

The items were donated by a group of visiting students from Juniata College, U.S. through its partner in The Gambia, Alliance for Democracy in Africa (ADA), a non-profit NGO that seeks to promote democracy in Africa.

Speaking at the presentation at Tallinding Alkalo’s compound, ADA’s Public Relations Manager in U.S, Emily Nagengast, who is leading the students, said the gesture was in fulfillment of a promise he made when he and his son met Dr. Madi Touray, director of ADA.

“From our last year’s trip, we promised to help ADA.  We decided to bring football materials and sewing machines for the women and youth,” he said.

Mr Nagengast said they will explore the country to gain more experience during their three-week stay in The Gambia.

Maya Kunta of Tallinding who spoke on behalf of the women groups expressed delight over the gesture.

 “We engage in sewing of shirts, bedsheets and soap making to make ends meet,” she said.

 “We used oil and soda to make soap, but we are facing difficulties due to the high price of soap making materials. We need more help to execute our work effectively,” she appeals.

Dr Madi Touray, the director of ADA commended the students for assisting the women and the youth through his organisation.  

He urged the beneficiaries to take proper care of the donated items.

“Last year, I played football with Sheikh Mass Kah Senior Secondary School and I realised that they have talents, but lack materials,” a son to Mr Nagengast has said.

FaBakary Badjie, younger brother of the alkalo of Tallinding also spoke at the event.