By Lamarana S. Jallow
The Gambia has proudly joined 56 other member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) at the ongoing 6th Islamic Solidarity Games, officially opened in Riyadh on Thursday, November 7, 2025.
The event, organized under the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA), has brought together more than 3,000 athletes from across the Islamic world, all gathered to celebrate unity through sports and cultural exchange.
Team Gambia made a bold and colorful entrance during the opening ceremony, led by Olympian and Commonwealth silver medalist Faye Njie, who carried the national flag with pride as the delegation marched through the stadium.
This year, The Gambia is fielding 16 athletes competing in six sporting disciplines — Athletics (9), Judo (2), Swimming (2), Karate (1), Taekwondo (1), and Para Athletics (1).
The country’s participation is jointly coordinated by the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC), with the Government providing full budgetary support to ensure smooth representation and performance at the Games.
Speaking on The Gambia’s participation, Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie, Minister of Youth and Sports, commended the athletes and technical team for their commitment and discipline. He reaffirmed the Government’s continuous support for Gambian sportsmen and women competing on the global stage.
“The Islamic Solidarity Games is more than just competition; it is a platform to strengthen unity, friendship, and cooperation among Islamic nations. We are proud of our athletes who continue to raise The Gambia’s flag high and serve as true ambassadors of our country,” said Minister Badjie.
He added, “As a Ministry, we remain committed to supporting our athletes and investing in programs that build a strong sporting foundation for The Gambia. Our participation in Riyadh demonstrates the Government’s resolve to promote excellence and ensure that sports remain a source of national pride.”
The Games also present an opportunity for Gambian athletes to defend their remarkable achievements from the 2021 edition held in Türkiye, where sprint queen Gina Bass and her relay team won gold medals in the 200 meters and 4×100 meters relay, cementing The Gambia’s name in the annals of the competition’s history.
With high hopes and growing national support, Team Gambia is poised to make another impressive mark in Riyadh — showcasing not only sporting excellence but also the enduring spirit of unity and resilience that defines the Gambian youth.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports extends its best wishes to Team Gambia as they compete among the best, representing the red, white, blue, and green with pride and determination.
