Dresden-Banjul Rally Fuels Vital Aid Projects in The Gambia
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The annual rally, a grueling overland adventure, is making a tangible difference in the lives of Gambians through the work of the Dresden-Banjul Organization (DBO).
After an epic journey spanning seven countries across two continents, culminating in a transatlantic sail, participants in the 38th edition of the Dresden-Dakar-Banjul Rally have spent the last week in The Gambia witnessing the impact of their efforts. Beyond the adventure and camaraderie, the rally serves as a crucial fundraising platform for the DBO, a non-governmental organization dedicated to improving healthcare, education, and livelihoods in the West African nation.
The rally participants arrived in Gambia after three intensive weeks of travel, encountering both the warmth of the local peopel and the stark realities of poverty. The DBO focuses on areas where needs are greatest, addressing topics that are considered ‘shameful’ are hardly discussed in society or in schools,” highlighting the critical need for this outreach.
As mid-2023, the health post has undergone notable expansion, adding an eye clinic, a dental clinic, and a maternity ward. These improvements were made possible through generous financial donations and in-kind contributions. Dr. Fatima Bouriss, the new director and doctor, along with Dr. Faburama Jambang, have not only continued Sol’s work but also elevated hygiene standards to European levels and implemented a thorough inventory system for medicines and medical supplies.
Investing in education for a Brighter Future
The DBO’s impact extends beyond healthcare, with substantial investments in education. Visits included two schools originally established as preschools, recognizing the importance of early childhood education. These schools focus on teaching English,a crucial skill for students transitioning to higher levels of education where Mandinka or other local languages are the primary language of instruction at home.
The kobisala School in Sanyang exemplifies this progress. Thanks to DBO support and the dedication of headmaster and teacher Buba Bojang, the school has grown from a nursery into a fully-fledged secondary school, complete with a school bus, new classrooms, renovated facilities, and a state-of-the-art computer room. This transformation has been fueled by the auctioning of rally vehicles and individual donations from participants.
The Interior Academy,initially serving children of law enforcement personnel,has also expanded its reach,now welcoming students from all backgrounds – though children of executive members benefit from reduced tuition fees. Notably, the academy champions inclusivity by integrating children with disabilities, fostering a respectful and natural learning environment.This is particularly significant in a society where families often face stigma surrounding disabilities, leading to children being excluded from education.
Beyond Formal Projects: Individual acts of Kindness
The DBO’s work is further amplified by the individual charitable efforts of rally participants. The “Schwarzwald buewä” team,for example,revisited a boy with disabilities in Tanji,delivering a wheelchair – a follow-up to a donation made in 2021 – and spontaneously treated an entire street kitchen to a meal. They also continued their long-term support of a mother by covering her children’s school fees.
The rally participants acknowledged the pervasive poverty they encountered, not only in The Gambia but throughout their journey.”During the project visits, everyone was able to see for themselves that the proceeds from the auction of the vehicles are needed and actually make a difference here in Gambia,” one participant noted.
While acknowledging the limitations of their impact – “Of course we can’t help everyone. And we certainly won’t be able to save the entire world” – participants expressed a profound sense of purpose. “But if we could help make the world even a tiny, tiny bit better, then we have already done an infinite amount.”
The rally organizers extended gratitude to the entire DBO team, the participants of the 38th edition, and all past and future rally supporters for their continued dedication. A special thanks was also given to those who shared photos via rally chat, enriching the experience for all involved.
To learn more about the projects supported by the DBO, visit dbo-network.org.
