By Lamarana S Jallow
Athletes and spectators have gathered in Birmingham for a 10-day sports festival of sport – the Commonwealth games.
The opening ceremony showcased the vibrancy and the colour and diversity of England as the games officially kick off at the magnificent Alexander stadium.
At the start of the ceremony, conceived by music, typical English dancers, art and culture as nations wept and bowed their heads with the emotion of the moment. The sharp edge of competition was put aside for the opening ceremony.
There was a celebration of the diverse costumes and music from the 72 countries represented at the games. There were smiles and laughter. And as is now traditional at such events the skies were lit up by a myriad of fireworks.
On August 8th the curtain of this sporting event will fall, until then, its promise of offering a memorable and historic event to the globe won’t stop, so if you are not in town, it’s time to get into the next flight.
Team Gambia arrived in Birmingham, last week Monday to take part and compete in her second Commonwealth Games after being reinstated in 2017. The West African nation will be among 72 other nations.
The Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Patricia Scotland, Barrister by training, on Tuesday 26th July, 2022, welcomed delegates from Commonwealth Member States to the Birmingham Games 2022, at the popular International Convention Centre in the heart of the Birmingham City.
Speaking at the brief ceremony, the politician cum Secretary General of the Commonwealth, welcomed delegates to what she called a multicultural City, jokingly adding “in this beautiful city, I am very sure each of you delegates can locate someone who originates from you country. That’s the beauty of this city you have found yourselves today”. While she welcomed Togo, the newest member of the bloc, she reminded delegates that the Commonwealth Games and movement is still very relevant and vibrant because it ensures peace; understanding; respect and love among member states even though they compete among each other during the games.
The Commonwealth top official used the opportunity to enjoin Sport Ministers and senior government officials at the ceremony to network as much as possible.
“Thank you very much for coming to my welcome ceremony, your own ceremony”, she concluded
The welcome ceremony was attended by Hon. Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie and Mr. Marchel Mendy, Executive Director of the National Sport Council.
