By: Momodou S. Gagigo
In a powerful display of grassroots determination, the One Niamina Association (ONA) officially launched its transformative give-back initiative on January 24, 2026, uniting the long-overlooked districts of Niamina East, Niamina West, and Niamina Dankunku under a shared vision of progress and self-reliance.
For more than three decades, residents of these Central River Region communities have remained steadfast supporters of successive governments. Yet, basic infrastructure—reliable roads, clean water, and electricity—has remained frustratingly out of reach. Frustrated by persistent neglect despite their loyalty, community leaders from across the three Niaminas formed ONA, a nonpartisan coalition dedicated to addressing these chronic challenges through collective action and sustainable development.
The launch event, held in Kudang, drew a diverse assembly of influential figures, including National Assembly Members, representatives from the Governor’s office, Chiefs, Councillors, and religious leaders. Under the inspiring theme “Unity, Sustainable Development, and Progress,” participants reaffirmed their commitment to bridging divides and fostering real change from within.
Professor Momodou Sallah, Director of The Gambia’s National Research and Innovation Fund and the event’s keynote speaker, delivered a stirring address rooted in his three decades of experience in development work. “Our collective future depends on our ability to work together,” he declared. “For too long, we’ve been overlooked. It’s time we seize our destiny and demand a better future for our communities.”
Highlighting practical priorities, Professor Sallah pointed to persistent issues such as post-harvest losses for women farmers, inadequate transportation, and the lack of affordable housing. He stressed that targeted improvements in agriculture, water access, and electricity provision could deliver rapid, tangible benefits to residents.
Adding cultural weight to the occasion was legendary Gambian kora maestro and proud Niamina native Jaliba Kuyateh. The internationally acclaimed musician, born in Niamina Dankunku, emphasized the immense untapped potential within the districts. He pledged his full support, vowing to mobilize resources and rally broader backing to help overcome longstanding obstacles.
ONA Chairperson Samba Baldeh, who has been instrumental in the association’s formation, expressed optimism in his remarks. “This is a new dawn for the Niaminas,” he proclaimed. “We are dedicated to making a meaningful difference, and we invite all stakeholders—government, private sector, diaspora, and citizens—to join us on this transformative journey towards a brighter, sustainable future.”
The initiative represents a shift toward active citizenship in the region, moving beyond reliance on external promises to proactive, community-led solutions. By pooling local expertise, cultural influence, and shared resolve, ONA aims to tackle infrastructure deficits, boost economic opportunities, and build lasting resilience.
As the people of Niamina rally around this unifying platform, the launch signals the beginning of an era defined by determination and hope. With unity as their strength, the communities are poised to unlock their potential and chart a path of genuine, self-sustained development for generations to come.
