The signing, done also in celebration of Gina Bass’s achievement as the most decorated Gambian athlete, took place on Friday at the head office of QCell, which has succeeded to be the first GSM Operator to launch 5G in West Africa, graduating from the first to launch 3G and 4G in The Gambia.
Success comes with a lot of hard work, QGroup Chairman Muhammed Jah remarked, saying commendably Gina did not achieve her success overnight. “She worked hard for many years to reach this level,” he appreciated the Gambian athletics ambassador.
Chairman Jah stated that they believe that Gina would serve as true ambassador of QCell, adding that “she has the values” that QCell believes in.
Gina is Africa’s Usain Bolt, Mr Jah describes Africa’s fastest woman in 100m race, saying QCell wants to promote Gina to a level where everyone in the world would know she is a champion - a pride of The Gambia and Africa!
A human development-centred business chief, Mr Jah also thanked the Gambia Government for giving his company the opportunity to be able to impact lives in the country.
Chairman Muhammed Jah and team received a shower of thanks and praise from the Youth and Sports Minister Bakary Y. Badjie for the initiative, in appreciation for “everything they are doing in the sports sector”.
Minister Badjie pointed out that for many decades the upkeep of sports in the country has been between government and the national sports associations.
“The private sector to a large extent stayed behind and watch government and the associations to finance sports activities,” he voiced out. However, he said, in recent years they have seen some of the private sector coming on board and supporting their efforts.
“QCell has taken the lead in the real investment,” the Sports minister said. “They are not only supporting us during competitions but also with infrastructure.” He contends that there is nowhere in the world where the government makes an athlete rich.
“What makes athletes rich is the endorsements they get from the private sector and signings for promotional activities,” he highlighted.
They hope other companies in the country would learn from QCell and sign athletes in all sports disciplines in the country, the minister said, boosting the morale of Gina Bass: “We hope you will win an Olympic medal you so deserve this year.”
As a ministry, he added, they would continue to do their best for sports development in the country, saying there is no sector that is exporting more talents out of the country than sport.
Gina has done and continue to do well for The Gambia as a result of her dedication, commitment and love for what she does, applauded the Gambia National Olympic Committee President Beatrice Allen.
The GNOC president added that they are confident Gina would make The Gambia proud in Paris during the Olympic Games later this month, although they would not weigh her down with undue expectations.
Madam Allen thanked QCell for recognizing Gina, saying she hopes other private enterprises, businesses and donors would emulate QCell.
Amie Sise, QCell Senior Marketing Manager, said Gina’s achievements resonates deeply with QCell’s values and aspirations.
“Gina is not just an athlete. She is a symbol of perseverance, dedication and triumph in the world of sport,” she extols Africa’s athletic queen, saying: “Her accomplishment on the track has been nothing short of extraordinary, aligning perfectly with QCell’s commitment to excellence and pushing boundaries. We are inspired by Gina’s journey and the impact she has made in the sporting world.”
Further, she said: “Gina Mariam Bass Bittaye is very humble but her achievements are no small feat. Her values of hard work, determination and resilience mirror with our own corporate business, making her an idol representative of QCell,” she added.
Commissioner Lamin Bojang, who deputised the Inspector General Police at the function, thanked QCell for recognizing Gina’s efforts.
A small country though, The Gambia is full of talents, the Commissioner commends, saying “Gina is a manifestation of that talent we have as a country.”
He echoed IGP’s commitment to advancing and supporting young Gambians in sport to unearth their hidden talents. He also encouraged Gina to continue her hard work and dedication to service.
Mustapha Bittaye, Gina’s Manager, said he was grateful for the partnership he believes will yield fruitful results and development.
Gina, he observed, is determined to achieve anything in her strides and efforts. He also thanked Gambians for their support towards Gina.
Amira Jagne, first vice president of the Gambia Athletics Association, said Gina’s dedication and exceptional athletic commitment has not only brought honour to The Gambia but have also inspired countless individuals across the nation.
“QCell’s decision to sign Gina does not only indicate their commitment to supporting local talents but signifies their dedication to promoting sports and athleticism with the community,” she said, adding that the partnership would not only elevate Gina’s profile at the international stage but would also provide her the necessary support and resources to excel in her athletics pursuits.
For her part, Gina Bass gleefully thanked QCell, her family, manager and everyone for their support.
