Momodou Lamin Manga, Honorary Consul of the Russian Federation in The Gambia, received the Pushkin Medal from President Vladimir Putin during a state ceremony at the Kremlin marking Russia’s National Unity Day.
The Russian Embassy in The Gambia announced that Manga received the decoration for his contributions to culture, preserving historical heritage, and strengthening relations between peoples while promoting Russian culture abroad. The Pushkin Medal is a state honor given for achievements in culture, the arts, education, and literature, as well as efforts to protect cultural heritage and advance international cultural cooperation.
The 4 November ceremony recognized distinguished figures from Russia and other countries for contributions to national unity and international cooperation. Several foreign public figures, scientists, and entrepreneurs received Pushkin Medals and Orders of Friendship alongside Manga. The award is viewed as a notable step in cultural and diplomatic ties between The Gambia and Russia.
A former Director General of the Gambia Radio and Television Services (GRTS), Manga was appointed Russia’s Honorary Consul in The Gambia in 2015. In that role, he has supported bilateral contacts, especially in cultural diplomacy and people-to-people links. Notable steps during his tenure included opening a Russian Consulate presence in Banjul in 2016 and working on a bilateral cultural agreement that same year, which sought to give Gambian artists greater access to the Russian music market.
Manga has continued to support efforts to expand cooperation. In October 2026, Russian Ambassador Sergei Kruykov visited Banjul and described Manga as an “extraordinary diplomat,” expressing confidence that he would help further advance relations. Since that visit, the Russian Federation has appointed a full ambassador to The Gambia, who has already presented his credentials.
The Pushkin Medal places Manga among foreign nationals Russia recognizes for cultural exchange, heritage preservation, and international cooperation.
For The Gambia, the award also highlights the role of cultural diplomacy and the contributions of individuals who build partnerships beyond conventional political and economic channels.
