Founded in July 2018, FARD is a non-political, non-profit organisation created out of necessity to respond to the real needs of the people of Foni. Since its inception, the agency has supported health facilities, assisted families in times of crisis, invested in education, enabled youth skills training, promoted sports, and worked to preserve the area’s cultural heritage.
Junkung Camara, Chief of Foni Berefet, expressed gratitude for witnessing the spectacular cultural gathering. He emphasised the importance of showcasing culture and praised organisers for staging an event that celebrates diversity through unity.
Mariama Jammeh, Vice Chairperson of FARD, reminded attendees of the organisation’s founding ideals. “We hold it to celebrate our culture, because culture is not entertainment alone. It is memory, identity, and instruction. We hold this festival to create space for dialogue, for listening, for healing, and for understanding one another,” she said.
She added that the festival also serves as a fundraising platform, stressing that development requires resources and self-reliance begins with contribution.
Keynote speaker Fatoumatta Baldeh described the festival as a collective celebration of shared heritage, resilience and unity, adding: “Culture is not just expressed through music, dance or tradition, but is the essence of our identity. It is about remembering where we come from, honouring those who came before us, and passing on values of dignity, respect and solidarity to the next generation,” she said.
Ms Baldeh highlighted the deeply rooted cultures of Foni, noting that the festival reminds communities that they remain bound together by history, family and community.
Musa Amul Nyassi, Deputy Governor of the West Coast Region, underscored the importance of the festival, pointing to FARD’s achievements in supporting Foni communities. He urged residents to see the event as an opportunity to celebrate diversity, stressing that unity is the cornerstone of meaningful development.
Amie Gibba, National Assembly Member for Foni Berefet, echoed similar sentiments. She reminded young people that they are the custodians of unity and encouraged them to use the festival as a chance to learn from elders and understand the history of their ancestors.
The festival featured spectacular performances by different ethnic groups from across Foni, showcasing the region’s cultural richness and reinforcing the message of unity through diversity.
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