By Yunus S Saliu
In quest to strengthen women’s rights in the dance sector, the 10th anniversary of Afriq Divas, a presentation of the Flex Fuzion Entertainment and Dance Academy, was on Friday, 8th March commemorated its 10th anniversary in grand style at the Ebujan Theatre, Kanifing.
The 10th-anniversary commemoration was attended by dignitaries including prominent figures and activists while the Ambassador of the US to The Gambia delivered a keynote address.
As part of the activities marking the anniversary, 30 women were trained in different areas notably Human Rights, Women’s Rights, Legal Rights in Performance Contracts, Negotiations Skills, and Intellectual Property Rights. The 30 trained women were all issued a certificate of achievement. It was funded by the African Culture Fund under the project – Strengthening Women’s Rights in the Dance Sector and was implemented by Ndey Fatou Jabang, CEO of Flex Fuzion Entertainment and Dance Academy through Afriq Divas established in 2013.
Delivering her keynote address, the US Ambassador to The Gambia Sharon L Cromer disclosed that in the United States, the entire month of March is dedicated to honouring women.
“It’s imperative to recognize the significant contributions of the women in our lives – mothers, grandmothers, aunties, daughters, sisters, and friends—who deserve ongoing celebration, protection, and encouragement. Women globally drive human rights, justice, and peace, care for families, educate children, and enhance their communities, often overcoming financial and political obstacles. It’s essential to acknowledge and celebrate women every day,” she emphasized at the gathering.
The ambassador who hailed from a modest background in Washington DC said she found herself in dance and discovered her passion for it “which became a significant part of my life, nurturing my body and mind.”
She expressed anticipation in seeing the Afriq Divas showcasing their exceptional talent on the special day dedicated to women, saying it takes creativity, hard work, and determination to excel as a dancer, “qualities I have observed in the many talented Gambians I have encountered.”
“The US Embassy embraces artists of all genders, including those like Ndey Fatou Jabang and the Afriq Divas, who empower women and girls in the dance sector, contributing to a cultural renaissance in The Gambia,” she said and therefore encouraged them to be strong “We stand by you; the US Embassy wholeheartedly supports your endeavors.”
Ndey Fatou Jabang, CEO of Flex Fuzion Entertainment and Dance Academy also the Founder of Afriq Divas expressed gratitude to sponsors and participants.
The day, she said, was set aside to mark a decade of relentless dedication, overcoming challenges, and empowering passionate young women in the dance sector and beyond.
“Our journey has been one of resilience, fighting societal stereotypes, and empowering individuals in the performing arts sector. We stand proud today as we celebrate this milestone,” she expressed with joy, noting that it is not the climax of their journey but rather a new beginning.
She, therefore, reaffirmed her commitment to amplifying the voices of women in the performing arts sector and the broader creative space.
“We pledge to continue advocating, promoting, guiding, and protecting aspiring artists, empowering them to evolve into successful artistic entrepreneurs,” she pledged their further commitment.
The diverse backgrounds of the “female dancers” on stage, she exemplified their commitment to multiple income streams, saying they are dancers with double careers in ranks.,
However, the anniversary performances were not merely a showcase of artistic skills; they summarized a decade of challenges, tenacity, and hard work. While their final performance underscored the role of being dancers which did not lead them astray instead it showcased their contribution to the development and GDP of the country.
The Afriq Divas’s night ended with a powerful dance performance interpreting and highlighting the challenges faced by women in the Dance industry of the Gambia as well as societal backlashes