Banjul once again lived up to its reputation as The Gambia’s cultural heartbeat as the Banjul Cultural Festival lit up the capital from 25 December to 1 January, filling the city with colour, rhythm and tradition.

The week-long celebration drew strong public participation, with particularly large crowds on 1 January, when renowned cultural groups including Odilleh, Ekumbaba and Gunshot took centre stage, delivering electrifying performances that showcased the richness of Gambian heritage.

Beyond music and dance, the festival also served as a platform for youth empowerment and creative enterprise.

Through the EU Youth Empowerment Project – Tourism and Creative Industries, support was provided for the event, enabling young entrepreneurs in fashion, handicrafts and food to showcase and sell their products, generating income and expanding their market reach.

The project is funded by the European Union in The Gambia, in partnership with the Government of The Gambia, and implemented by the International Trade Centre, as part of broader efforts to harness culture and creativity as drivers of economic opportunity, social cohesion and national pride.

As the drums fell silent and the crowds dispersed, one message rang clear: Banjul did it again, celebrating Gambian culture not just as heritage, but as a living, thriving force shaping the nation’s future.

📸: ITC Gambia