United Gambian Association to bid farewell to outgoing president ,welcome new leadership

The United Gambian Association (UGA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving Gambians across the United States, will host a special ceremony on October 19, 2024, to bid farewell to its founding President, Honorable Ebou Cham, and to formally install its new President-Elect, Mr. PA Saine. The event will be held at Azal Hall, 1807 Hunt Avenue, Bronx, NY, starting at 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

Founded in 2011 by a group of concerned Gambians in New York City, the United Gambian Association has grown to become one of the most influential and impactful organizations in the United States for Gambians. With members spread across the state of New York and its satellite communities, UGA has focused on fostering unity among Gambians, while providing essential support to its members, particularly in the areas of immigration assistance, educational outreach, and community integration.

Since its inception, UGA has made significant strides in helping Gambian immigrants navigate the challenges of life in the U.S. The organization has spearheaded multiple initiatives, including immigration support, CPR training, and educational programs aimed at assisting children from immigrant families. UGA has also played an active role in addressing key public health concerns such as HIV/AIDS awareness, malaria prevention, and combating drug abuse and teenage pregnancy, both in the U.S. and in The Gambia.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization launched a widespread effort to provide aid and promote public health guidelines to curtail the spread of the virus within the Gambian diaspora. Through its advocacy and support, UGA also facilitated access to vital state assistance for its members, reinforcing its role as a pillar of community service.

The association’s commitment to community development extends to its voluntary services, which include disaster relief efforts in both The Gambia and the U.S., alongside tutoring programs designed to help children from Gambian immigrant families excel in their academic endeavors.

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The upcoming farewell ceremony will honor Honorable Ebou Cham for his dedication and leadership during his tenure as the first president of the United Gambian Association. Under his guidance, UGA has grown into a well-organized, influential group known for its efforts to uplift the Gambian community. His work, alongside his team, has helped the association achieve the formidable status it holds today.

“Honorable Ebou Cham’s unwavering commitment to our mission has been the cornerstone of our success. His leadership has inspired us all, and we are proud of the strong foundation he has helped lay for this organization,” said the UGA Secretary-General. “We are also excited to welcome Mr. PA Saine, who will continue the important work of leading UGA into its next chapter of growth and service.”

Mr. PA Saine, elected by the general membership in March 2024, will take on a three-year mandate, with the possibility of serving two terms. The installation ceremony marks the beginning of his leadership, as he works to further UGA’s mission of unity and service. Under Saine’s leadership, UGA plans to expand its outreach programs and continue its vital work in both the Gambian and wider immigrant communities.