As The Gambia prepares to host the 32nd edition of the Week of Friendship and Fraternity in West Africa—widely known as SAFRA, the SAFRA bureau delegation from the Upper River Region (URR) paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports, Bakary Y. Badjie, on Wednesday.
The delegation, led by URR Governor Samba S. Bah, met with the Minister to formally brief him and his team on the country’s preparations to host the sub-regional event in 2025. SAFRA, a rotational convergence among six neighboring West African nations, promotes peace and integration through sports, cultural displays, trade exhibitions, and youth engagement programs.
“Our visit today signals URR’s full readiness to welcome West Africa to Basse,” said Governor Bah. “We are proud to lead this national effort and believe SAFRA 2025 will be a celebration of unity, culture, and cooperation across borders.”
In his welcoming remarks, Minister Badjie reaffirmed the government's commitment to advancing youth development, regional collaboration, and initiatives that foster peace and inclusion.
“SAFRA goes beyond being just a gathering. It represents a spirit of unity, cooperation, and mutual understanding among neighboring countries,” said Minister Badjie. “The Ministry is committed to providing both technical and institutional support to ensure this edition is a resounding success.”
Also speaking at the meeting, Mr. Abubacarr Krubally, President of the SAFRA Bureau Gambia, emphasized the importance of strong leadership and institutional backing from the Ministry, urging it to fully take ownership of the event.
“SAFRA is a symbol of unity across our borders. We need the Ministry to take the lead and make sure The Gambia’s hosting leaves a lasting impression,” Mr. Krubally noted.
These remarks were echoed by Regional Youth and Sports Coordinator Musa Jarra, who called for national mobilization to ensure the success of the 2025 convergence.
During the visit, the delegation unveiled the central theme for this year’s event:
“Peace, Security, Social Inclusion, and Sustainable Cross-Border Development: What is SAFRA’s Contribution?”
The theme will drive discussions, cultural exhibitions, and sporting events among participants from Senegal (Tambacounda), Guinea Bissau (Gabu), Guinea Conakry (Boké), Mali (Kayes), Mauritania (Selibaby), and The Gambia (Basse).
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Technical, Musa Mbye, assured the delegation of full cooperation and support, including guidance and logistical facilitation.
For more than four decades, SAFRA has served as a vital platform for deepening regional friendship, promoting cultural identity, and empowering youth through meaningful exchanges. From school visits and sports competitions to trade fairs and policy dialogue, SAFRA continues to bring West African communities closer together.
As The Gambia gears up for this significant event, the visit by the URR delegation marks an important step toward ensuring successful national coordination and a memorable SAFRA 2025 in Basse.
