Africa-Press – Gambia. As part of its 40th anniversary celebrations, the Gambia Methodist Laymen’s Association (GMLA) opted for action over festivity, focusing on environmental sustainability and community support.
Last Friday, the Association visited the Gambia Methodist Academy in Bakau, where it launched a new environment-focused project, donated cleaning and farming materials to the school, and led a hands-on tree planting exercise.
The landmark event was attended by Dr. Ernest Aubee, President of GMLA and Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Academy; Dawda Badjie, Executive Director of the National Environment Agency (NEA); and Most Reverend Bannie Manga, Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church in The Gambia.
Established in 1985, the Gambia Methodist Laymen’s Association aims to promote the spiritual, financial, and social well-being of the Church. Over the years, it has contributed significantly to education and community service, both within the Methodist Church and across Gambian society.
In her welcome address, Mrs. Hannah Harding, Principal of the Gambia Methodist Academy, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Association for choosing to celebrate its anniversary by giving back to the school community.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Ernest Aubee highlighted that the initiative aims to promote environmental management across all Methodist Academy schools. He noted that the donated materials would support environmental sustainability efforts and encourage a culture of responsibility among students.
Dawda Badjie praised the initiative as a model of how community-led efforts can contribute to national environmental goals, stressing that protecting the environment is a responsibility shared by all.
Most Reverend Bannie Manga officially launched the project, commending the Association for aligning its anniversary celebration with environmental stewardship. He revealed that the Church has planted 250,000 trees nationwide, with community members actively supporting such initiatives.
The Banjul Declaration was also presented to the Presiding Bishop, marking a commitment to continued environmental and community engagement. The event concluded with the symbolic handover of donated materials to the school principal, followed by a tree planting exercise involving dignitaries, students, and Association members.
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