By Fatou Sillah
Janjanbureh’s Bicentenary Festival, a three-day showcase of its diverse heritage, kicks off today.
Distinguished Gambian scholars, including Nana Grey Johnson, Professor Assan Sarr, and Professor Pape Bassene, will gather at a symposium alongside a vibrant trade fair. This immersive event promises insightful discussions, cultural performances, and a glimpse into the island’s fascinating past.
The festival promises to be a grand affair, with the esteemed presence of His Excellency Adama Barrow, President of the Republic of the Gambia. Joining him will be fellow West African leaders, the Presidents of Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, and Sierra Leone. Cabinet Ministers, National Assembly members, and distinguished members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps will also add to the gathering’s prestige, alongside esteemed local and international guests.
The festival aims to honor the 200-year historical journey of Janjanbureh, which has witnessed the fusion of various civilizations, such as African, Islamic, Arabic, English, Portuguese, and Christian.
The festival also seeks to promote cultural heritage, rural tourism, and social cohesion in the Gambia.
Hon. Omar Jammeh, the National Assembly Member for Janjanbureh and the Chairperson of the local organizing committee of the Janjanbureh Bicentenary Committee, told Kerr Fatou that the festival preparations are going well.
“The local organizing committee and the national organizing committee are working hard to prepare the venue. We have also engaged the community to join us in the preparations. We have the support of the Ministry of Defense through the Engineering unit of the military, who are helping us set up the ground for the event,” He said.
The Honorable member also expressed his hope that the festival will be a success and that the government will help to develop the cultural and tourism potential of the island.
“We are looking forward to a very successful Bicentenary event. We also hope that after this bicentenary, the government will reach out to the community of Janjanbureh and assist us in improving the infrastructure and developing the tourism and cultural attractions that exist on the island,” He said.