11/06/2026
A Tribute to a Son of Jarra, a Servant of Humanity:
Celebrating Ismail B. Ceesay
As part of UKJA’s ten‑year anniversary celebrations, it is both fitting and profoundly meaningful to pay tribute to a truly remarkable individual - a quintessential Jarranka, one of Jarra’s great sons, and a towering example of service, generosity and leadership. This individual is none other than Ismail B. Ceesay.
From the earliest years of UKJA, Ismaila has stood firmly with the organisation, not merely as a supporter, but as a believer in its mission and a champion of its vision. This commitment was evident from the outset, beginning with a generous donation of £1,000, followed by another £1,000 to ensure the success of UKJA’s very first fundraising event in Reading. During one of Ismaila’s visits to London, time was taken to personally meet UKJA’s executive members - a gesture that spoke volumes about genuine engagement, humility and solidarity.
One of Ismaila’s most poignant and impactful contributions came in response to an urgent appeal to support schoolchildren in Jasong Village, Jarra, who were learning while seated on mats on classroom floors. Without hesitation, Ismaila answered the call, providing furniture that restored dignity, comfort and a more enabling learning environment for those children. This act alone reflects a deep understanding that education is not merely about buildings, but about dignity, care and opportunity.
In the area of health, Ismaila once again demonstrated visionary generosity by contributing towards the expansion of the maternity ward at Soma Regional Hospital, directly improving maternal healthcare and outcomes for countless families. Further underscoring a lifelong commitment to education, Ismaila donated D50,000 to help establish the Educate Jarra Project Scholarship Fund, opening doors for young people whose potential might otherwise have gone unrealised.
As Ismaila has often stated, the motivation to give is rooted in seeing others who are committed to giving back to Jarra - a philosophy that perfectly mirrors UKJA’s own ethos.
Beyond UKJA, Ismail B. Ceesay’s life journey stands as a testament to excellence, perseverance and service. Rising from humble beginnings in Jarra, Ismaila broke barriers to become the first Managing Director of The Gambia’s first public transport company, later serving with distinction as The Gambia’s Ambassador, before moving on to the global stage as a senior staff member at the World Bank. Few lives so seamlessly bridge local roots and global impact.
Ismaila is like the sea - generous, vast and far‑reaching - with benefits that extend well beyond any single organisation. A leader. A diplomat. A public servant. A philanthropist. A champion of community. The pride of Jarra. A role model whose life inspires generations to believe that service to humanity is the highest calling.
As UKJA celebrates a decade of service, a grateful community extends its deepest appreciation to Ismail B. Ceesay for unwavering dedication to Jarra, to The Gambia, and to the world. This is not merely a celebration of ten years of UKJA, but a celebration of a life lived in service.
