Community Service is a Virtue: Let Gunjur Support the GDA Multipurpose Centre

Community service is not just an act of generosity - it is a virtue that strengthens the fabric of a society. It is disappointing, then, to witness the lack of community engagement in crucial development projects in Gunjur, as seen in the recent community work at the Gunjur Development Association’s (GDA) Multipurpose Centre. The paltry turnout for the clearing of the site, as captured in a video by Sister Mama-Kaddy Bajo, is a stark reminder of a troubling trend: apathy towards collective responsibility.

Gambia’s Minister of Works Hon. Ebrima Sillah at the GDA Multipurpose Centre Project site

This indifference is not just an oversight; it is a serious impediment to progress. The GDA Multipurpose Centre is a landmark initiative —one that has the potential to transform Gunjur’s social and economic landscape. It is the first of its kind in the town’s history, envisioned as a hub for recreation, skill development, and community engagement. The project is not a government initiative, nor is it the brainchild of an international NGO. It is the effort of fellow Gunjurians and well-wishers who have chosen to give back to their homeland, despite the enormous challenges they face.

From acquiring land in a prime location to laying the foundation, the journey has been arduous. Yet, the GDA has pressed on, fueled by determination and an unwavering belief in the power of community-led development. These individuals have sacrificed their hard-earned resources, their time, and their energy —all for the benefit of present and future generations of Gunjurians.

The importance of the GDA Multipurpose Centre cannot be overstated. It will serve as a sanctuary for young people, offering them constructive spaces for learning, social interaction, and self-improvement. It has the potential to steer vulnerable youth away from destructive paths and equip them with the skills and knowledge they need to transition into responsible adulthood.

Yet, despite these undeniable benefits, the project risks stagnation due to a lack of collective commitment. It is not enough to commend the efforts of the GDA from a distance. Praise alone will not build walls or furnish classrooms. Social media appreciation, while valuable, cannot replace physical or financial contributions. If we truly believe in community service, then we must demonstrate it through action.

The responsibility to see this project through to completion lies not just with the GDA but with the entire town of Gunjur. Supporting this initiative does not necessarily mean making large donations - though financial backing is crucial. Contribution can take many forms: volunteering at the site, mobilising support, offering expertise, or simply spreading awareness. Every little effort counts.

An Opportunity to Define Our Legacy

The GDA Multipurpose Centre is already a visible presence in Gunjur, gradually cementing itself into the town’s landscape. What remains to be seen is whether it will become a beacon of progress or yet another unfinished dream. The answer to that question depends on us.

Community projects like this are the legacy we leave behind. They are the test of our collective values and commitment to the future. If we fail to support this initiative, we risk sending a message that community service is an abstract ideal rather than a lived reality. But if we rise to the occasion, we not only secure a brighter future for Gunjur’s youth but also set a precedent for future generations to take ownership of their development.

Let us not allow this project to wither in its infancy. Let us rally behind the GDA, not just with words, but with tangible action. The time to act is now.