A group of Belgian journalists is exploring The Gambia this week as part of an educational tour organized by the Gambia Tourism Board and its partners.

The visiting media team represents publications with a combined circulation of over 1.4 million and reaches an estimated 2 million readers across print and digital platforms in Belgium and the wider Benelux region.

The tour, led by GTBoard’s Senior Marketing Communication Officer Mamou Suwaneh, has taken the journalists to some of the country’s top attraction.

Highlights include the Kotu Bridge bird-watching site, Bijilo Monkey Park, Katchikally Sacred Crocodile Pool, Kartong Reptile Farm, a city tour of Banjul, and a scenic River Gambia excursion to Kunta Kinteh Island.

Journalists also experienced authentic Gambian culture through bike tours, reflecting Belgium’s cycling traditions, and home-cooking sessions at Yabouy Home Cooking Village.

Speaking on the initiative, GTBoard Director General Ida Jeng Njie said the tour is part of a strategy to boost international awareness of The Gambia as the Smiling Coast of Africa.

“It is important for us to continue promoting the destination positively. Our culture, hospitality, and warm smiles continue to attract tourists from all over the world,” Njie said.

The Gambia Tours provided transportation for the journalists, while the Gambia Hotel Association (GHA) offered accommodation throughout their stay.

The tour is expected to generate extensive media coverage in Belgian publications, helping put The Gambia on the radar of international travelers and boosting tourism arrivals.

By Adama Makasuba