“We’re so excited to make The Gambia the next surf destination in Africa,” said Janna Awa.

She is the founder of Surf Gambia, which started in 2013 to give both Gambians and tourists the chance to ride the waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Norwegian-Gambian surfer told What’s On-Gambia: “My father is a Gambian and has a strong background in sports. The first time I came to The Gambia I knew I was going to do something here within the youth and sport segment.”

She added: “When my father turned 50, I came back as an experienced surfer and realized the surf here is great.  From there I have been working hard to establish and make my dream come through.”

According to her, Surf Gambia wants to empower children and young people through sports and education.

“For children that can already swim, we are offering them free surf lessons once in every month, and for those that can’t we will have free swimming lessons starting from 2016 ” said Anna.

Surf Gambia has recently enlisted the help of Argentinian Surf instructor, Enrique Pisani. He has extensive surfing experience around the world.

“I am very happy to be here! Great atmosphere, smiles everywhere, positive energy all around,” said Enrique, who described The Gambia as a surfing paradise with “uncrowded” waves.

Surf Gambia is now a registered business located at Kotu Point on the beach. You can also find them on Facebook and Instagram.