Established in 2023, the foundation seeks to promote unity and social coherence among the residents of Half- Die and beyond.
Moreover, this year’s event coincided with International Women’s Day, highlighting the intersection of faith, resilience, and social progress in this historic neighborhood.
Welcoming the gathering, Ya Tenneng Njie-Jah, president of Jigeeni Half-Die United, said the Quranic competition aims to inspire young people to deepen their engagement with the Holy Quran, fostering strong character, discipline, and moral values.
Njie-Jah explained the significance of honoring hardworking women whose efforts bolster families and the broader community.
“Today we celebrate the women whose resilience, service, and commitment continue to uplift our society,” she said.
Marking the occasion on International Women’s Day, she added, underscored women’s vital role in nurturing peaceful and progressive communities.
She thus commended the young women of Half-Die for spearheading the event and prioritising unity over politics since the group’s formation. Njie-Jah also invoked the ward’s storied legacy, noting its role in producing national leaders.
Another member, Lamin Gaye, who is widely described as a key figure in the group, praised the women of Half-Die for their dedication and hardwork.
Mayor of Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC), Talib Ahmed Bensouda, who served as a special guest, thanked the organisers for the invitation and lauded their focus on religious education and community development. “Whatever you do in the religion, you do it for yourself,” he remarked.
He made reference to a recent visit the group made to his office, where they discussed a range of issues affecting youths like drug abuse and irregular migration commonly called the “back-way.”
Yandeh Chorr, another guest speaker, delivered an inspiring address on the beauty and relevance of the Quran. She described it as a guide for understanding faith, knowing God, living ethically, raising children and gaining knowledge.
The Quran, she added, offers healing and direction toward the straight path.
Further, the event exemplified Half-Die’s enduring spirit-rooted in history yet forward-looking, uniting faith, community-action and celebration of women’s indispensable roles.
The event also witnessed presentation of awards to deserving individuals, which were:
Isatou Janneh, a judge at the court was recognised for her integrity and dedication to justice. Having served as a magistrate and Principal Magistrate, she helped establish the Social Security Tribunal and acted as an Election Revising Magistrate.
Fatoumatta Touma Njai, member for Banjul South and also chair of the Gender and Children’s Welfare Committee, was honoured for advocating for women, children, and youth. In 2025, she was named one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful Voices.
Ida Bojang broke barriers as the first female bus driver at the Gambia Public Transport Corporation before retiring from Gambia Ferries Services.
Nyima Khan, a dedicated fish vendor, who rose early every day to provide for her family, was celebrated for her resilience.
Yakkeh was honored for decades of teaching and mentoring, guiding students from nursery to the primary levels, many of whom advanced to higher education.
Ramou Sarr was acknowledged for her service at Pakala Clinic.
Machita Jabbie from Dara Baay was crowned the winner of the Quranic competition.
