Salesian mission in Gambia transforms youth through education and pastoral care
The Salesians of Don Bosco established their mission in Kunkujang Mariama, Gambia, on October 24, 2018. Six years later, their educational and pastoral work has borne abundant fruit in response to the call of the local Church. Discover the history, actions and prospects of the Salesian mission in Kunkujang in the service of young people and the Church.
Responding to the call of the local Church
The first Salesian missionaries to set foot in Gambia were Don Piotr Wojnarowski (Poland), Don Peace Francis Iké (Nigeria), and Don Juan Carlos Valdiviezo (Peru). Two weeks later, Sheldon Dias, a young practical trainee from India, joined them to bolster this multicultural team.
The pioneers of the Salesian mission in Kunkujang
October 24, 2018, marked a significant milestone for the Salesians of Don Bosco as they arrived in Kunkujang Mariama, Gambia. This initiative was in response to an invitation from Bishop Robert Ellison, CSSp, then Bishop of Banjul, who reached out to the Rector Major, Father Ángel Fernández Artime, to seek the Salesians’ support in strengthening the Church’s educational mission in the country.
The pillars of the Salesian mission in Kunkujang, Gambia
Over six years, the Salesian mission has firmly taken root through various educational and pastoral projects:
- The Oratory – Youth Centre: Established in 2019, this center is an innovative contribution to youth ministry within the diocese.
- Francis of Assisi Parish: A rural parish comprising 13 village communities animated by the Salesians.
- Chaplaincy to Diocesan Schools: An active Salesian presence in schools located within the parish territory.
- Don Bosco Garden: An educational and productive farm supporting the vocational training of rural youth.
Promising future prospects
The mission continues to grow. In collaboration with the Salesian West Africa North Province (AON), land has been acquired in Brikama to establish a second Salesian community in Gambia. This expansion aims to reach more young people while strengthening educational and pastoral infrastructure.
Blessings for the local Church and youth
The Salesians of Don Bosco have brought a new dynamism to the community of Kunkujang Mariama and the local Church:
- Promoting Don Bosco’s charism, with a preference for disadvantaged youth.
- Renewed focus on youth and adolescent ministry.
- Building modern educational and pastoral facilities (youth centers, classrooms, chapels, sports grounds).
- Actively supporting apostolic vocations and consecrated life.
The Salesian mission in Kunkujang Mariama is a living testimony to Divine Providence. Through their dedication, the Salesians are transforming the lives of young people and contributing to the spiritual and social development of Gambia. This dynamic mission promises even greater fruits in the years to come.
