Kanifing, The Gambia | 8 August 2026 — The Girls Summer Bantaba cohort participated in a powerful learning visit to Memory House in Kanifing, in collaboration with the African Network Against Extrajudicial Killings and Enforced Disappearances (ANEKED).
The visit offered the young participants an opportunity to explore The Gambia’s history through the lens of transitional justice, human rights, accountability and remembrance.
Upon arrival, the girls were welcomed by Aisha, who guided them through the Memory House and introduced them to exhibits documenting some of the country’s most difficult and painful chapters.
The tour explored cases of alleged enforced disappearances, killings, torture and other human rights violations, including stories connected to the period following the 1994 coup. Participants learned about individuals whose disappearances and deaths continue to form part of The Gambia’s search for truth and accountability.
The girls were also introduced to the story of journalist Deyda Hydara, whose killing highlighted the risks faced by journalists and the importance of protecting freedom of expression and the press.
Among the most moving moments of the tour was seeing personal items and materials connected to victims, including shirts associated with Koro Ceesay and Solo Sandeng. The girls also learned about Sankung Balajo, who was reportedly subjected to torture during the 2009 witch-hunt campaign.
The visit further highlighted the cases of Saul Ndow and Mahawa Cham, who were reportedly forcibly disappeared in 2013, as well as the experiences of families affected by arrests, intimidation and psychological trauma.
Participants also learned about the 2000 student demonstrations, including the death of Emile Pierre, and the tragic case of the 44 Ghanaian migrants who were killed after being intercepted in The Gambia in 2005.
A video screening provided another powerful learning moment, featuring testimonies from survivors of the Jammeh-era witch-hunt campaign and material relating to the 44 Ghanaian migrants. Hearing these experiences encouraged the girls to reflect on the human cost of injustice and the importance of ensuring that victims and survivors are remembered.
The programme concluded with an insightful experience-sharing session with Mrs. Sira Ndow, Country Director of ANEKED, who welcomed the Girls Summer Bantaba cohort to Memory House and encouraged the participants to reflect on what they had learned and consider their role in advancing human rights and social justice.
For the girls, the visit was more than a history lesson. It was an opportunity to understand why truth matters, why remembrance matters, and why young people have a role to play in building a society founded on dignity, justice, accountability and respect for human rights.
The Girls Summer Bantaba continues to create spaces where young girls can connect, learn, grow and lead—equipping them with knowledge and confidence to become active contributors to their communities and society.
An important day of learning. A day of remembrance. A day of meaningful dialogue.