The Gambia Rediscovers Chess
Gambia Gambia Gambia

Joseph Dalliah, "Chess: The Lost Game," The Daily Observer, 19 April 2006 (Banjul, The Gambia)

Yes! It's a game played in The Gambia since the early 70's but gradually it lost recognition from the international arena since our last participation in world games, Dubai, United Arab Emirate in 1986.

It is a pity that since then, when The Gambia lost poorly in the tournament, our veterans came back home and did their best to raise awareness about the game. Since 15 to 20 years back, talented players from all walks of life have been engaged in improving the standard of play in a much modern style by playing consistently at leisure.

Sadly enough, the national sports body never facilitated its recognition with the Federation International De Échécs (FIDE) but by a Gambian patriot called
Malick Secka (alias Uncle Mike) who paid annual contributions in registering The Gambia Chess Federation.

Posted by The Chess Drum: 19 April 2006