Sadibou Kamaso has called for a renewed commitment to grassroots football development in The Gambia, arguing that the future success of the country’s football depends on sustained investment in young talent and sporting infrastructure.

Kamaso said grassroots football must be placed at the centre of efforts to build a stronger and more competitive football system, with greater attention given to youth development and the facilities needed to nurture emerging players.

“Gambian football needs a recommitment to structured grassroots football development, because the success of our football depends on sustained investment in youth talent and infrastructure,” Kamaso said.

He said his leadership would prioritise long-term planning rather than short-term interventions, with a deliberate focus on identifying and developing young footballers from an early age.

Kamaso also highlighted the importance of modern football infrastructure, saying improved facilities would provide young players with better conditions to develop their skills and compete at higher levels.

“My leadership is promising deliberate planning, investment in grassroots football, modern infrastructure and youth development programmes,” he said.

His comments come amid ongoing discussions about the future direction of Gambian football and the need to strengthen the structures supporting players at the grassroots level.

Kamaso’s proposed approach places youth development at the heart of his football vision, with investment in infrastructure and organised development programmes forming key components of his plans.

He believes sustained investment in these areas could create a stronger pathway for young Gambian players to progress from grassroots football into professional and national teams.

The emphasis on grassroots development also reflects wider concerns about the need for more structured opportunities for young players, particularly in communities where football remains one of the most accessible sporting activities.

Kamaso said a deliberate and properly planned approach would help ensure that talented young players are identified, trained and given the necessary facilities to reach their full potential.

By Adama Makasuba