By Aja Beyai
Hundreds of women from across The Gambia converged at the OCity Hotel on Thursday to celebrate International Women’s Day and officially launch Buzz Women Day under the inspiring theme “Give to Gain.”
The high-profile event brought together government dignitaries, ambassadors, ministers, and representatives from various organizations to honor the achievements of Gambian women while spotlighting the transformative work of Buzz Women Gambia.
Fatou Touray Cham, National Director of Buzz Women Gambia, underscored the organization’s deep commitment to women’s empowerment through targeted education and skills development.
“We have reached over 40,000 women with programs designed to build financial independence, promote environmental sustainability, and foster community leadership,” Cham said.
Attendees were treated to powerful success stories from women who have benefited from Buzz Women Gambia’s flagship initiatives, including the Self-Power Program, Buzz Green Program, and Inspirational Fellowship Program. These interventions have enabled participants to launch their own businesses, improve household livelihoods, and become influential leaders in their communities.
Hon. Fatou Sanyang Kinteh, Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Welfare, commended the organization’s impactful work.
“When women are educated, empowered, and given equal opportunities, they become catalysts for economic growth and poverty reduction,” the minister stated.
Dave Jongeneele, Founder of Buzz Women, explained the organization’s distinctive philosophy during his address.
“We are not in the business of helping women, but in the field of transformation,” he said. “We believe all women have the power within themselves, and we are here to remind them of that power and enable them to activate it.”
A major highlight of the evening was the official launch of the Jamba Fund, a new initiative that provides financial support to women-led enterprises and community projects. Prominent businesswoman Amie Bensuda announced her personal contribution to the fund, declaring:
“Investing in women is investing in the future of our nation.”
As The Gambia joins the global community in marking International Women’s Day, the resounding message from the gathering was one of collective responsibility. Organizers and participants alike stressed that empowering women is not only a matter of justice but a strategic pathway to national development and prosperity.
The event concluded with renewed calls for sustained partnership between government, civil society, and the private sector to ensure Gambian women continue to thrive and lead the country toward a brighter, more equitable future.
