In a landmark event that highlights the strengthening of international sports and cultural relations, the Republic of The Gambia welcomed a high-profile Russian delegation led by the Foundation Adansonia (a Russian institution devoted to sports, education, and international cooperation). The visit was facilitated under the auspices of the Honorary Consulate of the Russian Federation in The Gambia, headed by Hon. Lamin Manga. The delegation`s arrival was also supported by the Ministry of Sports of the Russian Federation. The delegation’s visit to Banjul marked a continuation of their West African outreach, following their initial mission in Senegal.
A key highlight of their Gambian itinerary was a public sports event, prominently featuring a swimming masterclass conducted by two globally acclaimed Russian athletes:
- Andrey Arbuzov, multiple world and European champion in finswimming
- Alexander Krasnykh, Olympic silver medalist and world and European swimming champion
The event took place on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at SBEC International School in Banjul and was held in collaboration with the Gambia Swimming and Aquatic Sports Association. Andrey Arbuzov read out a welcome address by First Deputy Minister of Sports Odes Baysultanov.
The masterclass brought together between 15 to 30 young Gambian swimmers and members of the local sports community, offering participants a rare opportunity to receive elite-level coaching and witness firsthand the training techniques of world-class athletes.
The initiative was organized in partnership with the autonomous non-profit organization “Wave after Wave” whose team expressed deep honor in contributing to the development of swimming and sports in The Gambia. The autonomous non-profit organization "Wave after Wave", headed by Andrey Arbuzov, is widely known in Russia for its children's charity sports festivals, which they hold throughout the country.
Ms. Olga Mishedchenko, General Manager of Foundation Adansonia, emphasized the importance of such cultural exchanges. “We hope this encounter lays the foundation for future cooperation between our organizations and becomes a celebration of international friendship through sport,” said Ms. Olga.
Dmitri Kurakov, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to The Gambia, expressed optimism that the event would pave the way for enhanced sports cooperation between the two countries. The event symbolized a shared commitment to using sports as a bridge between cultures and a tool for youth empowerment. Honorary Consul Hon. Lamin Manga commended the visiting delegation and noted the potential for broader collaboration in sports development, education, and cultural exchange.
The masterclass ended on a high note with participants expressing enthusiasm and gratitude for the training experience. The visit is expected to pave the way for deeper ties between The Gambia and Russian sports institutions in the years ahead.
