The Gambia Martial arts launches new initiative

The Gambia Martial Arts and Self Defence Academy last Sunday 3rd January 2010 officially launched its character count programme, entitled "Building Gambia's Feature Leaders Through Martial Arts," at B.O. Semega Janneh Olympic Hall in Serrekunda.

Speaking at the ceremony, the President of the Gambia Martial Arts Academy (GMAA), Yahya Al-Matarr Jobe described the day as important in the history of sports in the country. He noted that "it is an initiative that every Gambian should be proud of and emulate if we are to have healthy minds in healthy bodies."

Jobe also stated that "martial arts can help improve cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, balance, heightened mental awareness, strength and overall energy levels."

He said the skills include discipline, self-control, patience, confidence, courage, among many others, all of which he said are necessary for children's development.

"With true martial arts, you continue to improve with age, well into your old years," he noted.

According to him, martial arts contributes a lot to the development of healthy citizens.

"Martial Arts like all other sporting partners in the country is meant to contribute its quota to the development of the younger generation, both in schools and in the communities," he stated.

The Chairman of the National Sports Council, Mustapha Alex Dacosta also revealed that martial arts is a discipline that teaches skills and self-defence.

Dacosta urged people to practise the game, especially the young ones.

He also urged the academy to encourage sport across the country and to work in the spirit of oneness.

Other speakers included Yorro Njie, the Coordinator of the Gambia Martial Arts Academy and Besenty Gomez, the Country Director of Smiling Coast Tours.