By: Sainabou Sambou
Residents of Half-Die Ward in Banjul came together on Sunday for a vibrant event blending religious devotion, community pride, and recognition of women’s achievements. Organized by Jigeeni Half-Die United, the Annual Quranic Competition and Award Ceremony for Hard-Working Women coincided with International Women’s Day, highlighting the intersection of faith, resilience, and social progress in this historic neighborhood.
Ya Tenneng Njie-Jah, President of Jigeeni Half-Die United, opened the ceremony by welcoming attendees and expressing gratitude to participants, organizers, donors, and supporters. She explained that the Quranic competition aims to inspire young people to deepen their engagement with the Holy Quran, fostering strong character, discipline, and moral values.
Njie-Jah stressed the significance of honoring hardworking women whose efforts bolster families and the broader community. “Today we celebrate the women whose resilience, service, and commitment continue to uplift our society,” she said. Marking the occasion on International Women’s Day underscored women’s vital role in nurturing peaceful and progressive communities.
She commended the young women of Half-Die for spearheading the event and prioritizing unity over politics since the group’s formation. Njie-Jah also invoked the ward’s storied legacy, noting its role in producing national leaders.
Lamin Gaye, described as a foundational figure of the group, praised the women of Half-Die, noting that all three presidents of The Gambia—former President Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, former President Yahya Jammeh, and current President Adama Barrow—hail from the area. “For this reason, we can proudly say that the women of Half-Die gave birth to the nation,” he declared.
KMC Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda, a special guest, thanked the organizers for the invitation and lauded their focus on religious education and community development. “Whatever you do in the deen, you do it for yourself,” he remarked. He recalled a recent visit from the group to his office, where they discussed tackling youth issues like drug abuse and irregular migration, commonly called the “back way.”
Guest speaker Yandeh Chorr delivered an inspiring address on the beauty and relevance of the Quran. She described it as a guide for understanding faith, knowing God, living ethically, raising children, and gaining knowledge. The Quran, she added, offers healing and direction toward the straight path.
The highlight was the presentation of awards to outstanding women from Half-Die Ward for their societal contributions.
High Court Judge Isatou Janneh was recognized for her integrity and dedication to justice. Having served as a magistrate and Principal Magistrate, she helped establish the Social Security Tribunal and acted as an Election Revising Magistrate.
Entrepreneur Aja Badjie, originally from Gunjur, earned praise for her generosity, family support through business, and welcoming spirit in Banjul.
National Assembly Member Fatoumatta Touma Njie, representing Banjul South and chairing the Gender and Children’s Welfare Committee, was honored for advocating for women, children, and youth. In 2025, she was named one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful Voices.
Ida Bojang broke barriers as the first female bus driver at the Gambia Public Transport Corporation before retiring from Gambia Ferries Services.
Nyima Khan, a dedicated fish vendor who rose early every day to provide for her family, was celebrated for her resilience.
Businesswoman Binta Drammeh was commended for founding Scoop City Ice Cream on Duplex Road, owning Cut and Fit Tailoring, and co-owning Chico’s Furniture.
Ya Oley Gai Camara of Hot Street received recognition for her kindness and calm influence.
Yakkeh was honored for decades of teaching and mentoring, guiding students from the nursery to the primary levels, many of whom advanced to higher education. Ramou Sarr was acknowledged for her service at Pakala Clinic.
The Quranic competition crowned Machita Jabbie from Dara Baay as the winner.
The event exemplified Half-Die’s enduring spirit—rooted in history yet forward-looking—uniting faith, community action, and celebration of women’s indispensable roles.
