By: Momodou Gagigo
In a landmark moment for environmental advocacy in West Africa, Greenpeace’s iconic campaign ship, the Arctic Sunrise, docked at Banjul Port on Thursday, February 5, 2026, marking its first-ever visit to The Gambia. The vessel’s arrival has ignited widespread enthusiasm, drawing hundreds of students, activists, government officials, and residents to engage directly with the global fight against biodiversity loss, illegal fishing, and marine pollution.
After departing from Norway and touring several African nations—including a recent stop in neighboring Senegal—the ship berthed in Banjul as part of its broader African campaign to champion ocean protection and climate justice.
On Friday, February 6, the decks were opened to the public, transforming the port into a bustling hub of education and inspiration. Schoolchildren in uniforms queued patiently under the tropical sun, many boarding an international environmental vessel for the first time.
Guided tours showcased the ship’s advanced technology, including smaller boats used for investigating remote waters, while interactive sessions linked local challenges—such as overfishing and coastal ecosystem threats—to worldwide efforts.
For over four decades, Greenpeace vessels like the Arctic Sunrise have been at the forefront of peaceful activism: monitoring destructive industries, exposing illegal fishing fleets, documenting pollution, and supporting communities reliant on healthy oceans. In The Gambia, where fishing sustains countless families for food and income, the ship’s presence underscores the urgency of safeguarding marine resources amid rising exploitation.
Dr. Aliou Ba, Ocean Campaign Lead for Greenpeace Africa, emphasized the importance of collaboration during the visit. “We are here to work with communities and the government to highlight the ocean’s vital role in daily life, especially for coastal families,” he said. “Protecting it from exploitation is essential. We brought this ship to showcase its beauty and value, and we hope The Gambia continues advancing proposals against illegal fishing while empowering youth as ocean defenders.”
Captain Mike Fincken, who has helmed Greenpeace ships for 30 years, described the stop as an honor. “We are here because of concerns about illegal and destructive fishing in the region,” he noted. “This is a wonderful opportunity to partner with local communities and authorities in West Africa to protect marine life and secure fish stocks for future generations. We must do this together—for our children and those to come.”
Local environmental activist Abdourahim Khan welcomed the initiative, calling for broader involvement. “We are collaborating with Greenpeace to amplify our long-standing message on ocean protection,” he said. “We urge every Gambian—especially in the fishing sector and government—to spread awareness in coastal areas. This is about saving the ocean and securing sustainable livelihoods.”
The atmosphere at Banjul Port blended excitement and purpose. Students snapped photos beside the towering ship, teachers hailed it as “an eye-opening classroom beyond four walls,” and fishermen nearby listened intently to discussions on sustainable practices. For many young visitors, the experience made abstract concepts of climate change and biodiversity threats feel immediate and actionable.
The Arctic Sunrise is scheduled to depart The Gambia on Sunday, February 8, continuing its tour to advocate for stronger ocean policies.
