09/11/2025
The History and Development of Bambally Village (Saineyya)
Bambally, locally known as Saineyya, is one of the oldest settlements in the Sabach Sanjal District of The Gambia’s North Bank Region. The village holds a rich historical legacy deeply rooted in migration, settlement, and community resilience.
According to oral tradition, Bambally was founded by Sainey Darboe, a hunter who originally hailed from Jarra Bureng in the Lower River Region. Sainey frequently traveled to a nearby area known as Elephant Island to hunt. Over time, he developed a strong affection for the region captivated by its scenic landscape, abundant wildlife, fertile soil, and lush vegetation.
Recognizing the land’s suitability for habitation and agriculture, Sainey decided to settle permanently in the area. After some time, he invited his twin brother, Sanna Darboe, to join him. Together, they established the foundations of the present-day Bambally village.
The settlement was initially organized into two major clans (K***as):
• Darboe K***a, where Sainey resided, and
• Fodamara K***a, where Sanna and his family settled.
Both brothers were renowned hunters and farmers, whose industrious spirit laid the foundation for Bambally’s early growth. Over time, their relatives from Jarra Bureng joined them, gradually expanding the settlement into a thriving community.
As word spread about the fertility of the land and the peaceful coexistence among its inhabitants, people from various parts of The Gambia and beyond migrated to Bambally with their families. The village became widely known for its remarkable agricultural productivity encapsulated in the popular saying: “Kunkunding Bajoba”, meaning “even with a small piece of land, one can harvest abundantly.”
This reputation made Bambally a destination not only for settlers but also for Marabouts (Islamic scholars and spiritual leaders) who came to pray for the prosperity of the community. Among the most notable were Sheriff Seedy and Jasong Touray, whose spiritual influence left a lasting impact on the village’s development.
Despite its strategic location, Bambally faced significant transportation challenges in its early years due to the absence of proper roads. The villagers appealed to Jasong Touray for assistance. Responding to their request, he instructed them to select a group of dedicated young men and provided each with a stones. He instructed the youths to drop the stones one by one along the path starting from where the main road ended up to where they wanted the new road to reach. They followed his direction and stopped at the riverbank of Bambally.
Upon their return, Jasong asked where they had stopped placing the stones. When they replied that they stopped at the riverbank, he told them, “Had you crossed the river and continued dropping the stones toward Jarra, the road would have extended to Jarra itself.”
Today, the people of Bambally give thanks to Almighty Allah, as the tarmac road now extends up to the riverbank, fulfilling the prophetic vision of Jasong Touray.
Over the years, Bambally expanded further with the arrival of new settlers. In addition to the two founding clans, a third clan Kabunka K***a, established by the Kabunkas from Guinea Bissau was added.
The village’s cultural significance became so prominent that the famous Gambian comedy group “Ifansung Jamano” featured the three clans: Darboe K***a, Fodamara K***a, and Kabunka K***a in their performances, highlighting the village’s unity and reputation.
The people of Bambally are predominantly Mandinkas, engaged mainly in farming, fishing, and herding. The fertile riverbanks provide rich pastures, attracting Fula herdsmen from neighboring villages during the dry season, as they bring their livestock to graze.
Bambally is located approximately 30 kilometers from Farafenni, the commercial capital of the North Bank Region. For many years, the village lacked access to Western education, compelling children to travel to Sinchu Njabo for schooling.
In 1980, ActionAid The Gambia constructed a three-classroom block, marking a major milestone in the introduction of Western education in the village. This development became a turning point, leading to the emergence of a new generation of educated youth.
Today, Bambally proudly boasts of directors, senior government officials, and professionals who serve across various sectors of national development a testament to the village’s progress and enduring spirit of resilience.
From its humble beginnings as a hunter’s refuge to its present status as the second-largest village in Sabach Sanjal District, Bambally stands as a symbol of unity, determination, and faith. Its people continue to uphold the legacy of their ancestors cherishing their heritage, valuing education, and striving for continued growth and prosperity.
By: Saikou M. Jobe
