By Sainabou Sambou
Greenafrique, a dynamic youth-led NGO focused on climate action and public health, commemorated Earth Day with a vibrant beach cleanup at Palma Rima Beach. The event, held on April 30th, rallied young Gambians to champion environmental protection and sustainable living. It underscored the organization’s commitment to fostering a healthier planet and stronger communities.
Founded in 2022 and officially registered as an NGO in 2023, Greenafrique is driven by a passionate group of 18- to 35-year-olds, including doctors, public health officers, and environmental graduates. “Our mission aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—SDG 3 for health, SDG 11 for sustainable cities, and SDG 17 for climate action,” said Ibraheem Jatta, Greenafrique’s founder.
The Palma Rima cleanup marked Greenafrique’s first beach-focused initiative, building on prior community cleanups in areas like Sukuta and health screenings in remote villages like Foni Block. Jatta described these screenings, which tested for diabetes and high blood pressure, as “a very impactful journey.”
Jatta emphasized the significance of Earth Day, globally observed on April 22nd, as a moment to reflect on humanity’s role in safeguarding the environment. “We must care for the earth not just for humans but for animals and trees too,” he said. Palma Rima Beach was chosen in collaboration with the Gambia Tourism Board, though Jatta noted that even frequently cleaned beaches require ongoing efforts. “The Gambia is surrounded by water, and more cleanups are needed in places like Sanyang and Tanji,” he added.
The cleanup also aimed to protect marine life, with Jatta noting, “By protecting animals in the sea, we’re protecting ourselves.” Greenafrique’s vision extends beyond cleanups, with plans to plant trees in forests and urban areas to combat climate change and promote sustainable cities.
The event drew enthusiastic support from locals, including Siaka Bojang, a juice vendor at Palma Rima Beach, who joined the cleanup spontaneously. “This is a national duty, and Greenafrique is doing great work,” Bojang said, urging beachgoers to maintain cleanliness and calling for government-provided dustbins. Participant Mariama Jallow echoed this sentiment: “A clean environment allows us to pray, meditate, and function better. Cleanliness is everyone’s responsibility.”
Jatta appealed for broader support from the government and other organizations. “We may be starting small, but every piece of litter we pick is a big step,” he said, highlighting the cleanup’s role in promoting eco-tourism, a key contributor to The Gambia’s GDP.
Greenafrique’s Earth Day initiative signals a growing youth movement for environmental stewardship in The Gambia. The organization now calls on government bodies, partners, and fellow climate advocates to collaborate to protect the environment and build a sustainable future. As Jatta said, “Together, we can create meaningful change for our planet and people.”
