The Gambian delegation, made up of a cross-section of traditional drummers, dancers, and performing artistes, is attending the festival at the invitation of the Government of India. The country is among many nations represented at this major international cultural showcase, which aims to strengthen cultural cooperation and people-to-people ties.
The Gambian team for this year’s edition is headed by Musukebba Fatty Jammeh, Senior Performing Arts Officer at the National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC).
Speaking at a farewell ceremony held on Wednesday at the NCAC Research, Documentation and Development (RDD) Office along Kairaba Avenue, the Director General of NCAC, Hassoum Ceesay, expressed appreciation to the Government of The Gambia through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture for its continuous support to the creative industry, and to the Government of India for extending the invitation.
“This is an officially selected government cultural delegation invited through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture,” Ceesay said. “Because of the excellent performance of our artistes during previous editions, the Government of India has once again extended an invitation to The Gambia. This is a testament to the quality and professionalism of our performers.”
He added that the participation also aligns with The Gambia’s commitment to UNESCO 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, particularly in promoting artist mobility.
“This opportunity allows our artistes to travel, showcase their work internationally, build networks, and enhance their careers,” he noted. “It also reflects the high level of commitment of the Government of The Gambia to supporting the creative sector.”
Ceesay further explained that the artistes were selected based on established criteria by the NCAC and that the Centre, in addition to support provided by the Indian government, is covering travel arrangements, airport taxes, and providing preparatory support.
He urged the delegation to represent the country with pride and serve as good cultural ambassadors.
“You are carrying the image of The Gambia. Showcase your very best and uphold the values of our nation,” he told them.
Earlier, Sanna Jarju, Director of Performing Arts and Literature at the NCAC, said the gathering was organised to formally bid farewell to the delegation and present them with official nomination letters.
“All visas and air tickets have been secured, and each delegate has been given a token to assist with preparations ahead of their departure,” Jarju said.
The Surajkund International Crafts Mela is one of India’s largest cultural festivals and attracts millions of visitors annually, offering The Gambia a valuable platform to promote its rich cultural heritage on the global stage.
The group, therefore, gave a short performance before departure to thank the governments of The Gambia, India, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, and the National Centre for Arts and Culture.
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