Gambia celebrates senior citizens with gifts, community visits

During the visits, members of the University of Senior Citizens spent time with elderly residents, reminiscing about their younger days, sharing experiences, and reflecting on the future of their children and grandchildren. The gesture was part of a broader campaign to celebrate World Senior Citizens Day, observed annually on October 1.

The group also visited the Bakoteh Home for the Elderly, with plans to extend similar activities to all regions of the country.

Founded in The Gambia in 2019, the University of Senior Citizens forms part of a global network active in more than 200 countries. The organization brings together men and women aged 60 and above to share knowledge, promote lifelong learning, and improve the well-being of older people. Its latest initiative seeks to establish a national database on the needs, challenges, and aspirations of senior citizens.

One of the beneficiaries, Satang Jaw, a resident of Fajara, said she was deeply honoured by the visit. She encouraged the group to engage school children so that younger generations can learn about The Gambia’s history, culture, and values of respect and discipline that shaped society in earlier times.

Another elder, Mariam Darboe, welcomed the initiative and urged her peers to prioritise their mental well-being, stay physically active, and support their families while maintaining a strong sense of identity rooted in history.

Similarly, Ya Sarah Goddard Joof appreciated the visit and advised Gambians to embrace a culture of sharing and caring. She expressed concern that modern technologies, especially smartphones, have reduced conversations between children and elders, weakening social bonds. She also called on the association to strengthen unity, support, and commitment among its members.

Organizers say this year’s commemoration will be followed by a nationwide series of senior citizens’ home visits, underscoring the importance of recognising and celebrating the role of older persons in Gambian society.