According to her, the idea was inspired by a desire to introduce something unique and sustainable to The Gambia while creating a business that could eventually become a long-term investment for the family.
“My sons were already involved in the cigar business in America, supplying custom-blended cigars to cigar lounges in Atlanta,” she said. “When we came to The Gambia, we thought about bringing something different to the country, and that was how the idea of opening a cigar lounge and hosting cigar week started.”
Blake explained that cigar culture is widely celebrated in the United States, where cigar enthusiasts gather annually for themed events and networking activities. Inspired by that experience, the family decided to launch a similar initiative in The Gambia.
“The first cigar week was very successful, and last year’s edition also attracted strong participation,” she recalled. “This year, we decided to make it bigger and turn it into an annual event.”
This year’s event is expected to attract participants from the United States, the United Kingdom and Norway, reflecting the growing international interest in the initiative, she disclosed, saying that beyond promoting the Mega Legends brand, the event seeks to educate people about cigar culture and create networking opportunities.
“A lot of people smoke cigars, but many do not understand the culture behind it. During the event, our ambassador explains how cigars are made, the blending process and cigar pairing. It is also about learning and social interaction,” she added.
The businesswoman revealed that planning for the current edition began immediately after the previous event, stressing that collaboration with local partners was key to expanding the initiative.
“This year, we worked closely with local partners including Yaws Creation and Olimatta Taal, who helped coordinate activities and connect us with the community. It took a strong team effort to make this edition much bigger and better,” she said.
Activities lined up for the event include a fashion show scheduled for May 1 at Hendon Court, formerly known as Dream Park. On May 2, participants will gather for a cigar pairing session at Smoking Rose Speakeasy.
The programme will continue with a “Sun White Smoke Buffet” on day five, followed by a cultural trip to Kunta Kinteh Island on day six. Day seven will feature a river boat cruise, while day eight will host an Onyx poolside cabana smoke session. The event will conclude on day nine with participants departing for Senegal.
Despite the progress, Blake admitted that sourcing event materials and logistics in The Gambia remains challenging at times.
“One of the biggest challenges is finding some of the things we need for events, such as chairs and equipment,” she noted. “But with the support of local people and businesses, we have managed to overcome many of those difficulties.”
She emphasised that the initiative is also designed to support local businesses and create employment opportunities for Gambian youths.
According to her, the cigar week has already created temporary and permanent opportunities for young people through hospitality services, event management, security services, modeling and operations within the cigar lounge.
“We are hiring local security guards, wait staff, models and young Gambians to work at the lounge. As the business grows, we hope to create even more opportunities,” she said.
Blake expressed hope that the initiative could eventually attract foreign investors interested in establishing larger businesses and production facilities in The Gambia.
“I always think about the young people when I see them. They need opportunities,” she considers, saying: “Hopefully one day investors can come and establish production plants or industries that can employ more Gambians and contribute to national development.”
The week-long activities will include an all-white party at Bojang Lounge in Cape Point, a boat cruise, visits to entertainment venues, networking sessions and a large-scale fashion show featuring local designers and models.
Organizers clarified that the event is intended strictly for adults and is not aimed at promoting smoking among minors.
“This event is not for underage people, and we are not encouraging smoking,” Blake stresses. “It is more about the culture, networking, tourism and creating a safe social environment for adults.”
She further encouraged Gambians and tourists to visit the Mega Legends lounge, describing it as a multipurpose venue that can host meetings, networking events, birthday celebrations and private functions.
“You don’t have to be a smoker to attend,” she said. “People can come to socialize, network and enjoy the atmosphere while supporting local businesses.”
Organizers believe the annual cigar week has the potential to strengthen tourism, entertainment and entrepreneurship in The Gambia while creating stronger business links between the country and international investors.
