February 18 of 1965 is memorable for every Gambian on earth. It was the day when The Gambia gained independence from the stranglehold of British colonialists. The Gambian flag was given its respect, when it was for the first time hoisted and the Union Jack was lowered.
Though compared to many other once-colonised countries around the world, the road to The Gambia’s independence was relative smooth. However, its pioneers have made enormous sacrifices.

Thus as we mark yet another independence anniversary – the 47th on Saturday  as had been the tradition, we ought to recognise their efforts and hail their courage.

For even when the going was tough and the odds were many, they stood firm in their resolve to see an independent and sovereign Gambia. The pioneers of the country’s independence insured that The Gambia, as small as it was, as resource-poor as it was and as improbable as it seemed, were able to put a stop to Britain telling Gambians what to do.

And it is for the sake of that sovereign Gambia that, today, we beat our chests, vowing to defend it to the last drop of our blood. It is that sovereign Gambia that nearlt two million people love to call their motherland without taking any permission from mother England.

Imagine how unbearable and excruciating you would feel if a foreigner keeps telling you what to do all of the time in your own country; reduces you to a second class citizen in you own country and keeps taking more and more of your allowances. Before February 18, 1965, this is a reality.

Why on earth then are we not giving this historic moment all the attention it deserves? Why are we not having people coming out en mass at public events to show their support for the history and the heritage? Why should we feel so proud to express and give thanks to the people who fought for the freedom and liberties we are enjoying today?  

To be independent means to take care of yourself, making your own rules and providing for your own needs and its celebrations have deep roots in The Gambia’s tradition of political freedom.

February 18, used to be celebrated with pomp and gaiety, across the length and breadth of The Gambia. On this day Gambian people used to indulge themselves in remembering the heroes of the freedom struggle and pay homage to them. A sort of social gatherings used to be arranged in the education, institutions and other public places wherein cultural programs are organised.

February 18 used to be a national holiday every Gambian looked forward to. Unfortunately, nowadays the day comes and goes without much notice. Prominence is given to other days which are not national. This is sad.