By Yunus S Saliu
The inaugural day of the Sea Trade Exhibition in Miami marked a major milestone for The Gambia’s tourism sector, as its delegation engaged in high-level discussions with international stakeholders, laying the groundwork for transformative collaborations. The weeklong exhibition commenced on 7th and ended 10th April 2025.
Delegation led by the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Arts, Tourism and Culture, Ma’am Cordu Jabang Senghore, The Gambia’s team made a strong impression at the global event. The Sea Trade Exhibition presents a significant platform to connect The Gambia with leading cruise lines, reinforcing its reputation as The Smiling Coast of Africa.
A key highlight was the Gambia Tourism Board’s strategic partnership with the Gambia Ports Authority, which resulted in meaningful dialogue on enhancing sea trade and exploring new avenues for growth in the port city of Banjul.
Director General of the Gambia Tourism Board, Abubacarr Camara, spearheaded talks with a global travel agency specializing in African airline ticketing and reservations. With operations already underway in The Gambia, the agency aims to incorporate more regional and international airlines.
DG Camara reaffirmed the Gambia Tourism Board (GTBoard) dedication to strengthening this collaboration to boost tourism connectivity. The agency’s representatives are expected to visit The Gambia soon to further solidify plans.
In a regional show of solidarity, the Namibian Tourism Board expressed strong admiration for The Gambia’s longstanding tourism success. The GTBoard Director of Tourism (UK), Adama Njie, led discussions on advancing pan-African tourism through shared strategies and best practices, with a special emphasis on river transportation as a key growth area.
Granting the Sea Trade Media team interview, the GTBoard Senior Marketing Officer, Ma’am Haddy Darboe highlighted The Gambia’s strategic cruise tourism plan.
She emphasized the country’s appeal to cruise lines due to its rich cultural heritage, abundant bird species, and unique river-based attractions.
As the exhibition rounded up, The Gambia’s presence was hailed as impactful and inspiring—solidifying its role as a dynamic and rising player in global tourism.
Tala Jobe, GTBoard representative in the US said the Global Sea Trade Meeting and Exhibition for Cruise Lines and Tourism Destinations is another important forum with potential to explore river tourism opportunities worldwide. He reiterated that tourism is a vital industry with immense potential to generate significant economic gains.
Among other Gambia team led to this important trade meeting exhibition by Ma’am Cordu Jobe Senghore, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture included Momodou Singhate, Director General of the Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute (GTHI), Gambia Ports Authority officials included Landing Sanyang, senior corporate service manager and Kulah Manneh,the Harbour Master of Ports.
However, Destination Gambia lived up to its name: The Smiling Coast of Africa.
