The Gambia has officially joined the continental African Music Icons (AMI) Network, with the AMI Gambia Chapter holding its first official press conference on Saturday at the Cotton Club in Fajara.
The event, which brought together stakeholders from across the creative industry, was described as an official introduction of AMI to the Gambian media and public, in line with what was done in other African countries.
In attendance were representatives of the National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC), the Gambia Tourism Board (GTB), the President of the Gambia Music Union, the Female Musicians Union, cultural unions, executive committee members, jury members and goodwill ambassadors.
Master of Ceremonies, Andy Kem, said The Gambia has never lacked musical talent from legendary pioneers to the younger generation but what is needed are stronger structures and opportunities that allow artists to flourish.
Honourary Chairman of the AMI Gambia Chapter, Aziz Willan, said the membership marks a significant milestone for The Gambia in the regional and continental music landscape. He commended National Director Njundu Badjie for his visionary leadership.
Willan said AMI Gambia is committed to building a structured, inclusive and professional platform that empowers Gambian artists, promotes the country’s rich musical heritage, and provides visibility, fair representation and sustainable growth.
He noted that the platform will offer equal opportunity for all artists, songwriters, producers and performers through capacity-building workshops, mentorship, funding information, networking and access to international markets.
Delivering the keynote address, National Director Njundu Badjie said AMI is fundamentally transforming the continent’s music industry across 54 nations, with access to over 630 million mobile users and massive digital engagement through votes, views and downloads.
He said AMI will organise annual national, regional and continental music competitions culminating in a televised awards ceremony, with 19 main categories.
“Despite massive talent, the continent lacks a structured, standardised continental platform for professional recognition and economic sustainability. This is the gap AMI intends to close,” Badjie said.
Badjie said AMI will strengthen the creative economy, create jobs for youth, preserve culture, boost tourism and position The Gambia as a hub for arts in West Africa.
He concluded with the unveiling of a five-member national jury comprising Suleyman Sow, Matar Njai, Mariama Gassama, Latif Kaur and Wagan Faye.
