I am from the Gambia which is known as the West coast of Africa. The Gambia is a beautiful and attractive place and the smallest country in West Africa. Gambia is part of the commonwealth countries and as a nation we celebrated the commonwealth every year. The Government of the Gambia, individuals and schools celebrated it all, but primary schools have a very special celebration.
In 1989, I was at primary two at Bakoteh primary school. I can remember very well that years commonwealth day celebration. We had a big party all over the primary schools in the Gambia. On commonwealth day all the pupils or students of primary schools had to dress up traditionally and cook their own food as well as the schools because they want everyone to eat, drink, dance and enjoy the party as much as possible. I cooked a dish called jollof rice and dressed up traditionally as a Queen because I had to play a role as the King's wife. I was part of our school drama club and we had a wonderful play that day, we all loved it.
I loved the way my mum dressed me up with a crown, traditionally African beats necklaces with my African Queen dress. I enjoyed every bit of it and the memories will remain with me forever.
13th March 1989