The Gambia: The Smiling Coast of West Africa
In April 2024, I had the privilege of visiting a country on the West African coast, The Gambia: The Smiling Coast of West Africa, a lifetime experience that deeply impacted my perspective on humanity and life. During my time there, I witnessed both the challenges and the hard life. I was able to visit and capture almost all the projects initiated by Humanity First in The Gambia. This was my first trip to the African continent. My team was able to capture stills, videos, and interviews of Humanity First’s projects, including schools, IT training centers (Knowledge for Life), medical treatments and training (Global Health), solar bore wells (Water for Life), and community gardens (Food Security) in remote villages.
Humanity First is an international relief and development agency operating in 62 countries across 6 continents and providing humanitarian assistance to millions of people.
We filmed at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital in Banjul and witnessed how a team of UK-based doctors worked hard to give medical care to locals and trained the medical staff. Seeing their commitment to making healthcare better in West Africa was inspiring.
Engaging with members of the local community in rural areas offered me a deeper insight into their daily struggles. Despite the harsh life, hot weather and limited resources, their warmth and hospitality were truly noteworthy. They graciously welcomed us with their traditional style, offering a glimpse into their rich cultural heritage. I was able to meet the governor of the central river region of The Gambia. Our conversation shed light on the ongoing efforts by Humanity First in the country.
As I look back on the time I spent in The Gambia, I realise how lucky we are compared to billions of people. We often forget how blessed we are with health, education, wealth and other resources. In most African countries, these things are hard to come by. Their women and even children work hard, usually, they must manage the household, cook food and fetch water.
I don’t know how those people are left behind or whose fault it is. The fact of the matter is that if Allah Almighty has blessed us with something, we should share it with those who are weak, vulnerable, and needy. So, I request everyone to look at themselves in the mirror and think about how you can support or help those who are in need. If you have any skills, ideas, research, or expertise you can work on the ground and support them to improve their lives or help them by donating your money.
Thanks to @HumanityFirst for giving me this opportunity.
For donations, visit humanityfirst.org. Even your small donations can change the lives of thousands.