GSM giant Africell and the National Coordinating Committee of the Gambia’s participation in next year’s Afcon have signed an D8M package which makes the company the official GSM partner of the national team, the Scorpions.
The deal was signed live on GRTS Tuesday.
The Minister of Youth and Sports Bakary Badjie, who is also the chairman of the NCC, said the deal is a step in the right direction given the importance of fund-raising in the whole thing.
The minister thanked President Barrow for being the first to donate to the NCC which he said is a sign for all to follow suit.
“Africell too have always been supporting sports and the deal is a clear manifestation of that,” he affirmed.
The vice chairman of the logistics sub committee of the NCC, Sadibou Kamaso revealed that three members of the NCC recently returned from Cameroon to make logistical arraignments for the Gambian team and officials including fans. Kamaso added that they have contacted four hotels for reservations and if money is available, the NCC will airlift fans for free.
Musa Sise, the chairman of the Media and Publicity sub-committee of the NCC and member of Africell senior management, said Africell’s contribution is not only limited to D8M as the company will also foot the bill for two major fundraising connected to the campaign.
He disclosed that platforms and gofundme accounts have all been set-up to facilitate the public’s contribution and encouraged Gambians abroad to support through identified individuals in Europe and America. “People can call or SMS 2888 to contribute or visit the NCC office located at the Independence Stadium to contribute,” he said.
Mr Sise said Africell is one institution that is synonymous with supporting Gambia’s sports.
The Road to Afcon coordinating committee is looking for D117 million to ensure Gambia’s participation at the Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon 2022.
