By Aja Beyai
As the world marks International Women’s Day on March 8, Gambian football celebrates one of its most enduring trailblazers: Choro Mbenga, affectionately known as the “lioness” of the sport. With a career spanning decades as a player, captain, coach, administrator, instructor, and analyst, Mbenga has not only dominated the pitch but has tirelessly worked to dismantle gender barriers in Gambian sports, proving that women belong at every level of the beautiful game.
Born with a ball seemingly at her feet, Mbenga captained the legendary Red Scorpions from 1990 to 2006, leading the team to an era of dominance and glory in the domestic league. Her seamless transition from star player to player-coach and later assistant coach of the Gambia women’s U-20 national team further solidified her influence. Under her guidance, the Red Scorpions amassed numerous titles. Since 2006, she has served as the club’s longest-tenured manager—a record that cements her status as one of the most celebrated female figures in Gambian football history.
“One defining moment for me was realizing that my presence on the touchline was inspiring young girls to believe that coaching is not only for men,” Mbenga shared in an exclusive reflection. “Seeing players I coached grow in confidence, discipline, and ambition on and off the pitch remains my proudest achievement.”
Beyond club success, Mbenga extended her impact to the national level, serving as assistant coach and team administrator for the Gambia women’s U-17 squad. In that role, she managed scouting, reporting, and the creation of a comprehensive player database—laying foundational systems for youth development. In 2021, she took on the role of local coach instructor for the Kanifing Municipal and Banjul D-license coaching program, directly shaping the next wave of female coaches and leaders in the sport.
“If my journey has shown anything, it’s that women belong in leadership roles in sports,” she emphasized. “I believe my work has helped normalize women coaching at competitive levels and opened doors for conversations around inclusion, respect, and opportunity for women in Gambian sports.”
Mbenga’s influence reaches deep into the institutional heart of Gambian football. She has served as a Gambia Football Federation (GFF) local CAF instructor and women’s football coordinator, contributed her expertise as a TV analyst and pundit on national broadcasts, and represented The Gambia at the Discovery Football Festival in Germany. At every turn—whether analyzing matches, administering programs, or mentoring young talent—she has elevated the visibility and credibility of women in the sport.
On this International Women’s Day, Choro Mbenga’s story stands as a powerful beacon of resilience, determination, and visionary leadership. She has shown that one woman’s unwavering commitment can shift perceptions, open pathways, and inspire entire generations. Her legacy calls on young Gambian women and girls to step boldly onto the pitch, into coaching roles, and into leadership positions—knowing they, too, can score goals, break barriers, and lead teams both on the field and in life.
As The Alkamba Times honors the strength and contributions of Gambian women this March 8, Choro Mbenga reminds us that true change begins with those who dare to lead, persist through challenges, and lift others as they rise. Her journey continues to light the way for a more inclusive future in Gambian sports and beyond.
