Hundreds of residents of Tallinding North gathered on Saturday, August 8, 2026, for a major humanitarian aid distribution funded by the Gran Canaria Island Council. The initiative delivered 6,000 pairs of shoes and three containers of second-hand clothes to the community, marking a significant effort to provide essential items to the Gambian population. The distribution saw widespread participation from the local community, eager to receive the much-needed assistance.
NGO's Long-Term Commitment
The humanitarian initiative was implemented by the Spanish non-governmental organization Ser Humano, which has a long-standing commitment to The Gambia. Ser Humano has been actively working in the country for more than two decades, demonstrating a sustained presence and dedication to humanitarian causes. Over its 20-year history, the organization has undertaken various projects across different communities, consistently focusing on improving living conditions and access to resources. These efforts include the renovation and construction of schools in Tallinding North and Baniaka, contributing significantly to local educational infrastructure. The organization's long-term engagement indicates a continued focus on community development and support within The Gambia, addressing critical needs in education and basic amenities.
Details of the Donation
The aid distribution included more than 600 pairs of new shoes purchased in Banjul last week, according to Francisco, a representative of Ser Humano. The main distribution comprised a substantial consignment of 6,000 pairs of shoes and three containers of second-hand clothes. The three shipping containers used for the transport consisted of two 40-foot containers and one 20-foot container, noting the large scale of the operation. Francisco announced intentions to establish a shelter for orphans in Madiana and detailed plans to repair several schools by installing fans, lights, and boreholes, further demonstrating Ser Humano's commitment to long-term development. "My experience in Tallinding is magnificent and I don’t want to stop working here," Francisco stated, expressing his deep connection to the area. He added, "Last week I was in Banjul and bought more than 600 pairs of new shoes for you," directly addressing the beneficiaries. Francisco further expressed his profound connection to the region, saying, "I go around the world to 46 countries. But it’s only here where I feel it’s my home. Tallinding North is my home, Republic of The Gambia is my home, for that I want to help." He also indicated future plans to continue and expand aid efforts: "The news is that I want to bring other containers, more clothes, more shoes, more things, and especially clothes for sport, for football, for athletics, for every sport, because I want these people to be strong for the future."
Director's Pride and Future Plans
The distribution included 6,000 pairs of shoes and containers of clothes for the community, showing the scale of the humanitarian effort. The Gran Canaria Island Council's Department of International Solidarity funded the initiative, playing a key role in making this aid possible. Ser Humano's projects have also included drilling boreholes in communities such as Bakoteh, providing essential access to clean water. Additionally, three containers of materials arrived in the country yesterday, designated for schools and broader community support, signaling ongoing efforts to bolster infrastructure and provide resources.
Councillor's Gratitude and Impact
The donation was provided by Mr. Baboucarr Mansally, the Ward Councillor of Tallinding North, who played a key role in facilitating the distribution. Councillor Mansally stated that the aid distribution would have a direct and positive impact on his ward, addressing immediate needs of the residents. He further described Tallinding North as a very poor and vulnerable community, indicating the profound significance of the assistance for its residents and noting the necessity of such humanitarian interventions.