Since 2015, International Yoga Day has been celebrated in The Gambia with great enthusiasm and support from the Ministry of AYUSH in India, The Embassy of India, Dakar, Senegal,  The Honorary Consul General of India in The Gambia, The Indian Social and Cultural Association (ISCA), and various yoga instructors. This annual event has become a vibrant showcase of unity, health, and cultural exchange, drawing participants from all walks of life.

The celebration took place over the weekend at three venues: the British International School Gambia, Palma Rima Beach, and Paradise Estate. Each location buzzed with energy as adults and children from diverse backgrounds gathered to participate in the yoga sessions. The serene backdrop of Palma Rima Beach added a unique touch to the event, with the sound of waves complementing the rhythmic flow of yoga practices.

Participants were guided through a series of asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), and meditation sessions by skilled local yoga instructors. The focus was not only on the physical benefits of yoga but also on fostering a sense of inner peace and community spirit.

The Minister of Information,  HE Dr Ismaila Ceesay joined the event at Paradise Estate, performing several asanas. He emphasized the importance of yoga and encouraged more Gambians to get involved.

HE Dr Ismaila Ceesay and the yoga instructors were presented with beautiful shawls by the Honorary Consul General of India as a token of appreciation for participating in the International Yoga Day celebrations.  

Yoga originated in ancient India over 5,000 years ago, with its roots traced back to the Indus Valley Civilization. Traditionally, yoga was a spiritual discipline, a path to self-discovery and enlightenment. The ancient sages and yogis developed this profound practice, which has since evolved and adapted to modern lifestyles, gaining global recognition for its numerous benefits.

International Yoga Day stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of yoga and its ability to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries. The event not only celebrated the rich heritage of yoga but also reinforced the message of unity, peace, and women's empowerment.

If you're interested in joining yoga classes, here are the contact numbers of all the yoga instructors who participated in this event (in alphabetical order) -

Gretta Sebastian (Certified Yoga Therapist)
T: +220 770 0307
WA: +91 94004 36579

Mai Kujabi (Registered Nurse/Yoga instructor)
T: +220 523 9052

Melissa Kuwahata(Yoga Bliss Gambia)
T: +220 224 3627

Mohammed Legally-Cole(Yoga Instructor/Sports Therapist/Journalist)
T: +220 700 8180
WA: +220 681 2923

Morgane Sonko(Mozeinas)
T: +220 742 4697
WA: +336 984 891 40

Raffa Ndeti(Yoga instructor/ Hypnotherapist)
T: +220 779 4586