British and Gambian Wrestling Bodies Sign Cooperation Agreement in London

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

London, 6 March 2026 — The and the have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening cooperation in the development of wrestling, youth empowerment, and cultural exchange between the two organisations.

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greement was signed in London by Craig Anthony of the British Wrestling Association and Matarr Saine of the Gambia Wrestling Association. The ceremony took place at the in the presence of , The Gambia’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.

Also in attendance was , International Relations representative for British Wrestling and a member of the .

The MoU establishes a knowledge partnership between the two federations, reflecting a shared commitment to promoting wrestling as both a competitive sport and a platform for cultural exchange, youth development, and social cohesion.

Officials from both organisations highlighted the importance of connecting different wrestling traditions. The agreement recognises the deep cultural heritage of Gambian traditional wrestling, locally known as Boreh, alongside the established development of Olympic-style wrestling in the United Kingdom. It also identifies beach wrestling as an emerging area of global interest where both federations see opportunities for collaboration.

Under the agreement, the two bodies will cooperate in several key areas, including technical and coaching exchanges. This will involve sharing expertise in Olympic wrestling styles, traditional Gambian wrestling techniques, and beach wrestling training methods.

The partnership will also promote cultural and fan engagement through the exchange of best practices in community participation, event organisation, and the promotion of wrestling at both grassroots and international levels.

Another important component of the agreement focuses on governance and integrity in sport. The federations plan to share safeguarding frameworks and consult on governance models that align with international sporting standards.

Youth development will form a central pillar of the cooperation. Planned initiatives include youth training camps, mentorship programmes, and projects designed to increase participation in wrestling, with a particular emphasis on improving gender inclusion within the sport.

The MoU further opens avenues for strategic advocacy and international cooperation, including exploring opportunities within global wrestling structures and seeking support from programmes such as Olympic Solidarity and Commonwealth sport development initiatives.

Speakers at the ceremony said the agreement reflects the strong spirit of friendship between the United Kingdom and The Gambia, and the belief that sport can serve as a bridge between cultures.

The Memorandum of Understanding is non-binding and does not impose financial obligations on either organisation. Each party will bear its own costs for activities carried out under the cooperation.

Signed in London on 6 March 2026, the agreement will remain in effect for two years, with the possibility of extension by mutual consent.

Staff of the Gambian diplomatic mission in London were also present at the signing ceremony.

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