On February 17, 2025, as The Gambia marked 60 years of independence, HERITΛGE celebrated the country’s rich cultural heritage and the dedicated individuals working to preserve it. Hosted at the Ocean Bay Hotel in Banjul, the HerMaP Gambia Certificate Presentation brought together over 100 participants, including heritage professionals, community members, heritage practitioners, tourism agencies, and government officials. The event formed part of the week-long official celebrations. 

Guests were treated to a kora performance by Jali Foday Jobarteh while an exhibition of Gambian art was held alongside the event, organized in collaboration with the National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC) and the Visual Arts Association.

The celebration was part of HerMaP Gambia, a capacity-building initiative co-funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by The Heritage Management Organization (HERITΛGE) in collaboration with local stakeholders. Since its inception in 2020, HerMaP Gambia has focused on empowering local communities, building institutional capacities, and fostering sustainable economic development through cultural heritage.

The ceremony was attended by government representatives, members of parliament, EU officials, and cultural leaders. Opening remarks from HERITΛGE representatives set the stage for the event, followed by a keynote address delivered by the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, the Hon. Seedy Njie. A presentation on the results of HerMaP Gambia highlighted its significant achievements, including 18 workshops, the training of over 200 individuals, and the awarding of more than 450 certificates of participation. The initiative has also supported over 10 community-based projects focused on intangible heritage, built heritage, sustainable tourism, and cultural industries.

A key moment of the event was the certificate presentation, where participants were recognized for their dedication to heritage preservation and management. Testimonials from trainees, including Fatima Muloshi and Mamat Sallah, provided personal insights into the impact of the training on their work and communities.

“It is a unique occasion and an honor for us to celebrate The Gambia’s heritage with all of you—the keepers of that heritage.” said Dr. Evangelos Kyriakidis, HERITΛGE Director

While Lumana Kamashi from the Delegation of the European Union to The Gambia pointed out to the guests and trainees that “the cultural heritage sector in The Gambia country has strong synergies with other industries, such as tourism and the creative arts.” 

“Your efforts will ensure that future generations take pride in their heritage while embracing the opportunities of a more interconnected world,” she added.