The vice president of The Gambia, Dr. Aja Isatou Njie Saidy has called on all Gambians to join hands in taking Gambian wrestling to the next level. The VP was speaking to reporters during the National Wrestling Championship at the Independence Stadium in Bakau on Saturday.

Her words: “I think it is everybody’s business, not just the [Wrestling] Association. The association is just coordinating but it is every Gambian’s business who loves their culture, tradition and wrestling is for all tribes. So why don’t we promote it at the regional [level]?

I think everybody, regional governors, chiefs, alkalos all the sport associations out there should show interest in wrestling. This is ours and it creates employment for the young people. So I am calling on Gambians to respond.”  She also commended President Jammeh for his immense contributions towards Gambian wrestling.

VP Njie-Saidy went on to challenge the youths to be involved in the art of wrestling. “Wrestling is what we can call our own as Gambians and Africans,” she added.

The Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports, Alieu KT Jammeh shared similar sentiments. He said that it is also their wish to see mass participation at next year’s championship.