By: Alieu Ceesay
The Federation of Gambia Muslim Youth (FEGAMY) kicked off its annual national youth camp on Saturday, August 15, 2025, in Tubakuta, Kombo East, under the theme “Light the Path of Peace.” The nine-day event, running until August 23, aims to instill Islamic teachings, cultivate leadership skills, and promote entrepreneurial development among Gambian youth.
The camp’s primary goal is to nurture a generation that is both spiritually grounded and committed to contributing to national development through Islamic principles. Hundreds of young participants from across the country have gathered to engage in a transformative educational experience, guided by dedicated instructors. The program emphasizes not only religious knowledge but also practical skills and networking opportunities to foster personal and collective growth.
Sheikh Omar Bojang, FEGAMY’s Board Chair, underscored the importance of quality education over mere participation numbers. “This experience is not merely a recreational outing; it embodies a form of worship,” Bojang told attendees. He urged participants to take their learning seriously, emphasizing that the knowledge gained at the camp could offer unique insights not typically found in conventional academic settings. “Do not underestimate the importance of what you will acquire here,” he added.
The camp’s curriculum is designed to equip participants with a deeper understanding of Islam while encouraging them to apply these teachings in their daily lives. Kalifa Dampha, a senior Islamic teacher, highlighted the transformative power of education, stating, “To effect change within a nation, one must first acquire knowledge—especially the knowledge of Islam.” Dampha encouraged participants to pursue diverse professional fields, such as medicine and nursing, while remaining steadfast in their faith.
Addressing recent debates surrounding the ban on veils in schools, Dampha reassured attendees that the decision does not hinder girls’ educational opportunities. He emphasized the importance of maintaining Islamic values while navigating modern challenges, encouraging participants to approach such issues with wisdom and understanding.
For participants like Jewo Gisseh, the camp represents a chance to grow spiritually and share knowledge with others. “It is my responsibility to share what I learn here when I return home,” Gisseh said. She expressed her commitment to engaging her peers in meaningful discussions about Islamic practices, such as the significance of wearing the hijab. “If I encounter someone without a hijab, I will kindly explain its importance and the value of self-coverage,” she added.
The camp fosters a sense of community, allowing young attendees to build lasting connections while deepening their understanding of their faith. Activities are structured to balance religious instruction with leadership training and entrepreneurial workshops, ensuring participants leave equipped to contribute meaningfully to society.
As the nine-day event progresses, FEGAMY’s national youth camp continues to serve as a beacon of hope, empowering young Gambians to embrace Islamic values, pursue education, and lead with purpose. The initiative reflects FEGAMY’s ongoing commitment to shaping a generation that is both spiritually and socially conscious, ready to light the path of peace for the nation.
