Kassumai
Group, a group of individuals comprising both Gambians and non-Gambians
residing in Sweden on Sunday 7 August 2016, through Gambian Taekwondo star
based in Sweden Gbril Jatta, donated football materials to some institutions
and football clubs in The Gambia.
The
recipients of the materials included Bakau Sports Committee, Ministry of Youth
and Sports, Banjulinding Football Academy, Sait Matty FC, Magadan FC, Daily
Observer FC, Greater Banjul Upper Basic School, Bakau Primary and New Town
lower basic schools respectively.
The
presentation, held at the Independence Stadium, saw each beneficiary receive a
set of jersey, beeps and tracksuits.
Speaking
on the occasion, Gibril Jatta said he was motivated to donate to football
because there are more football structures in The Gambia, adding that it was
also easier for him to work with clubs in Sweden in getting the materials.
The
Taekwondo star admitted that even though as a specialist in Taekwondo he loves
football and as such this also motivated him to donate to schools he attended
and got trained.
He
stated that the gesture is one step of the project he aims to bring to The
Gambia, noting that he has already donated some materials (Judo mat and heavy
bags) to the Judo Federation.
Jatta
remarked that he believes in supporting people interested in sport.
He
thanked Kassumai Group for their generosity, adding that he hopes the materials
will be used for their cause to enable them bring other materials to The
Gambia.
He
also said they aim to bring a 40foot container to the Gambia between 3 and 6
months provided things flow well. “We have big plans for Gambian sport,” he
said.
Pa
Suwareh Faye, coordinator representing Kassumai Group in The Gambia said it is
always important remembering home when one travels abroad.
He
added that, they plan to establish an academy at Bakau Lower Basic School.
Abdoulie
Hada Bangura, also a coordinator representing the group in The Gambia, said
they aim to develop youth football across the country.
He
added that they also aim to ensure all regional teams are provided with
complete kits.
Pa
Alieu Ceesay, president of Magadan FC, in delivering the vote of thanks on
behalf of beneficiaries, thanked Gibril and his group for the gesture, saying
it came at the right time when the nawetan season in the country is in
progress.
He
said infrastructure and materials are a problem for Gambian football and as such
they were grateful to the donors.
He
concluded by urging Gambians in the Diaspora to emulate Gibril and his group,
adding that they hope to work together for the development of sport in the
country.
