Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mr. Gaye TheVoice
Published on 2024-03-06 08:27:27
Ostend Banjul City Link, in collaboration with the National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC), recently kicked off a five-day training program for tour guides in Banjul. This initiative, part of the Ostend Banjul City Link EU-sponsored project, aims to equip over 30 selected youths with the necessary skills for guiding tours in the city.
The training was inaugurated by Mr. Modou Jonga, the CEO of Banjul City Council, on behalf of Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe. CEO Jonga emphasized the importance of the training and commended the project team for their efforts in providing this opportunity to the participants. He urged the trainees to view themselves as ambassadors of Banjul and to make the most of the training to not only create employment opportunities for themselves but also for others within the city.
Mr. Hassoum Ceesay, Director General of NCAC, highlighted the significance of the training in preserving and interpreting the heritage sites of Banjul. He assured the participants of more training sessions before the tourism season begins to adequately prepare them for their roles. Governor Ebrima Jawo echoed the sentiments, emphasizing Banjul’s rich cultural heritage and status as a tourist destination.
Participants of the training, all residents of Banjul, were carefully selected through an interview process. Once the training is completed, they will have an information office at Crab Island to assist visitors in learning more about the city. Mr. Mamat Sallah, Deputy Director of Monuments, stressed the practical aspect of the training by having participants work alongside NCAC to further enhance their skills.
Ousman Jobe, EU Project Coordinator, outlined the project’s objectives of building the capacity of Banjul’s youth. He encouraged the participants to continue learning about the history of Banjul beyond the scope of the training program. Overall, the training program aims to empower the youth of Banjul to become proficient tour guides, showcasing the city’s cultural riches and attracting visitors.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Ostend Banjul City Link, NCAC, and other stakeholders underscores a commitment to enriching the cultural tourism sector in Banjul. Through strategic training initiatives like this, the city’s young population can contribute meaningfully to the tourism industry while also preserving and promoting Banjul’s unique heritage.
Read the original article on The Voice Gambia
