In The Gambia, where football has long been regarded as a man’s game, one woman has not only participated but revolutionised it. 

Adama Jarju, a former defensive midfielder turned prolific striker, has defied the odds, breaking barriers and challenging societal norms to reshape the future of women’s football in the country.

In 2010, Jarju embarked on a mission to empower women in a sport traditionally dominated by men. She founded her own football academy, which evolved into Yakarr FC, a club whose name, meaning “hope” in Wolof, symbolises not just the aspirations of the players but the broader social change Jarju sought to inspire. 

By 2017, Yakarr FC had climbed from the third division to compete at the highest level in Gambian women’s football, a monumental achievement in a country where women’s sports often struggle to find visibility.

For Jarju, now 34, the creation of Yakarr FC was more than a personal achievement; it was a crusade to challenge deep-rooted cultural and religious barriers. 

“I’ve seen how cultural and religious restrictions discourage women from playing football,” she says. 

“But I believe football is for everyone. If you have the passion and the opportunity, you should be able to play.”

Her determination has led her to not only build a team but to change minds. She began by convincing sceptical parents to allow their daughters to play. “I knew women were being left behind in sports, and I wanted to change that. If men can play football, why not women?” she asserts with unshakable confidence.

Jarju’s relentless work culminated in organising a women’s football festival, an event that scouted talent from all over The Gambia, including places like Lamin, Kartong, and Gunjur, bringing together young female players who might otherwise have been overlooked.

In 2024, Yakarr FC achieved what seemed unthinkable: winning the Women’s First Division Championship. Yet, this triumph did not come easily. With 40 players spread across two teams, Yakarr A and Yakarr B, Jarju faces a series of relentless challenges, balancing training schedules, matches, player development, and managing the financial strain of an underfunded club.

Still, her resolve remains unshaken. “I’m not competing with anyone. I’m just doing my part in the national development of the game,” she insists. “It’s about giving opportunities to young players, especially girls, to excel.”

Jarju’s influence goes far beyond football. She is deeply committed to improving the lives of underprivileged girls, especially those struggling in their education.

Through her mentorship program, she aims to address educational barriers that prevent many young women from reaching their full potential. 

“I’ve seen many girls who struggle in school, and while few are taking education seriously, there are so many others facing barriers,” she says with compassion.

But Jarju’s work has not come without its detractors. In a society where women are often expected to fulfill traditional roles as housewives, Jarju’s pursuit of her passion has met with criticism.

“People still tell me that women belong in the home, not in sports,” she says. “But you have to be independent. You can’t let others define your future or measure your success.”

Her journey has been a testament to resilience, exemplifying the power of sport to break down barriers, unite communities, and offer hope to those who dare to dream. 

Through her leadership, Jarju has not only elevated Yakarr FC but has also paved the way for future generations of female footballers in The Gambia.

Ebrima KB Sonko, an award-winning sports journalist, praises Jarju’s groundbreaking approach to reshaping women’s football in The Gambia.

“Adama’s unique combination of football and academics has inspired young women in her village of Sifoe to pursue the sport,” Sonko observes. 

“Through her foundation, which covers school fees and other expenses, she has attracted many female players to her team.”

Lamin Fadera, another award-winning sports journalist with Afri Radio, underscores the importance of women’s football in national sports development.

“Women’s football is not just an addition to the sport, it’s a crucial part of its growth,” Fadera asserts. “Their participation is helping the Gambia Football Federation achieve its goals and ensuring that football becomes a game for everyone.”

Yet, even as Yakarr FC soars, the struggle for financial support continues. Fadera highlights the financial difficulties faced by women who own football clubs in The Gambia, noting that most are forced to juggle multiple responsibilities and are heavily reliant on personal sacrifice. 

“The lack of funding is a major obstacle, but despite this, they continue to contribute significantly to the progress of women’s football in The Gambia,” Fadera says.

The landscape of women’s football in The Gambia has been forever changed. Prior to the 2015 FIFA.

“Live Your Dream” initiative and the GFF pilot project, the idea of girls playing football was largely seen as taboo. But now, female players are making their mark, competing in the top divisions and even representing the country on the national team. 

With proper investment in infrastructure and training, particularly in better playing surfaces, women’s football in The Gambia has the potential to exceed expectations.

Despite the challenges, Jarju remains steadfast in her mission. “Football is not just a game; it’s a means of empowerment, a chance for girls to find their voice,” she says. 

And with that, Jarju continues to inspire, proving that women’s football in The Gambia is not just a dream, it’s a bright, undeniable reality.

Her story will echo in the hearts of young girls across the nation, proving that football is not only a game for men, but a platform where hope, courage, and the pursuit of dreams thrive on and off the field.

By Adama Makasuba