The Sports Journalists’ Association of The Gambia (SJAG) on Tuesday, 23rd December, officially launched its Welfare and Solidarity Committee at the Seaview Gardens in Kololi.
The ceremony was attended by Sheriff Saidykhan, the Vice President of the Gambia Press Union (GPU), Modou Njie, a representative from the National Sports Council, and the Executive Director of the Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC), Mr. Muhammed Janneh.
Delivering his inaugural address, the Chairman of the newly formed committee, Tijan Massaneh Ceesay, opened with a quote from Abraham Lincoln:
“You cannot help men permanently by doing for them what they could do for themselves.”
He emphasized that the committee’s work aligns with the vision of the SJAG leadership to place the association on a stronger and more sustainable path.
Mr. Ceesay expressed gratitude to the SJAG executive for the trust bestowed on the committee and pledged humility, commitment, and service in executing its mandate.
“We come here with humility and modesty. We thank you for the opportunity given to us to make a difference and positively impact the lives of sports journalists in this country,” he said.
He praised the contributions of Gambian sports journalists, noting that their work has played a crucial role in the growth and visibility of Gambian sports both locally and internationally.
“There is no successful sports organization in this country without the work of sports journalists. Gambians excelling in different sporting disciplines today would not have been possible without your dedication,” he added.
Addressing the challenges highlighted by the speakers, Mr. Ceesay assured members that the committee is ready to meet them collectively and voluntarily, with the welfare of every sports journalist as a top priority.
Call for Unity and Remembrance
Highlighting the importance of solidarity, the Chairman called on all sports journalists to unite under the leadership of the SJAG executive.
“Unless we are united, unless we see ourselves as one family, we cannot achieve the goals we yearn for,” he stressed.
He also strongly supported the idea of an SJAG Remembrance Day, advocating for the celebration of Gambian sports legends and departed sports journalists.
“We should celebrate our legends and those who gave their all to Gambian sports. Why is Ousainou Njie not adequately honored? Why are our great sports journalists who have passed on not remembered?” he questioned.
The Welfare and Solidarity Committee is composed of the following members:
- Chairman: Tijan Massaneh Ceesay
- Members:
- Bakary B. Baldeh
- Pa Lamin Fatty
- John Bass
- Sara Camara
- Binta Jarju
- Saikou Sanneh
The committee’s mandate is built on three core pillars:
- Member Welfare: Developing frameworks to support SJAG members facing illness, bereavement, or personal hardship.
- Solidarity Initiatives: Organizing activities to strengthen unity, professional synergy, and camaraderie among sports journalists.
- Remembrance and Legacy: Institutionalizing an annual SJAG Remembrance Day to honor departed colleagues and celebrate their contributions.
AIPS Commendation
In a video message, AIPS President Gianni Merlo congratulated the SJAG executive, describing the initiative as a landmark step worthy of emulation by other associations.
“This is a very important initiative—more than you think. It is pivotal in supporting members internally and sends a strong message about caring for colleagues during difficult moments,” Merlo said.
He added that while such initiatives are relatively new within AIPS, SJAG’s action sets a clear direction for global sports journalism bodies.
“I congratulate you. Such initiatives are still new within AIPS, but the message they send will help other organizations understand the direction we must take. When we speak about member welfare, solidarity, remembrance, and legacy, we are touching on the most important aspects of our lives. For this reason, I am truly pleased with your actions, Mr. Omar Jarju.”
SJAG President’s Address
The President of SJAG, Omar Jarju, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to caring for both living and departed members.
“This is not just another event; it is a transformative milestone in the history of SJAG,” he said.
He explained that the establishment of the committee formalizes a proactive strategy centered on empathy, resilience, and collective responsibility.
“Member well-being is the foundation of a resilient sports media industry. We have documented the triumphs and struggles of others for too long—today, we turn the lens inward,” he noted.
The President emphasized the importance of nurturing young journalists, strengthening professional bonds, and ensuring that the contributions of past members are never forgotten.
“Let this launch be a promise—that even in a rapidly changing digital age, our care for one another remains our most vital asset,” he concluded.
