“Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.” These words by Desmond Tutu captured the philanthropic spirit of Lamin Sonko of Sukuta Nema, where his acts of generosity are increasingly visible through the eyes of orphans in his hometown.
The Sonko Foundation for Orphans reflects this evolving approach. Founded in 2021 by Lamin Sonko of Sukuta Nema in the Kombo North District, the organization was born out of necessity. Witnessing the struggles of orphaned and vulnerable children in his community, Sonko transformed concern into action, creating a foundation focused on care, education, and dignity.
Since its establishment, the foundation has supported more than 62 children within Sukuta Nema and beyond. Its work includes paying school fees, providing learning materials, and distributing uniforms and clothing to ensure children can attend school with confidence. Beneficiaries come from schools such as Bundung Lower Basic School, Latrikunda Lower Basic School, Alieu Bun Abi Talib Islamic Institute, Abuko Lower Basic School, and Aminatou Sey English and Arabic School.
Despite limited resources, the foundation relies on a network of donors, particularly Gambians in the diaspora, alongside contributions from family members and local supporters. “Despite the financial challenges, donors, especially diaspora Gambians, contribute regularly to offer assistance to many needy families and children back home,” Sonko, who lives in the Netherlands, said, highlighting the collective effort sustaining the initiative.
Beyond direct support, the organization recognizes the importance of storytelling in strengthening trust and engagement. Through short videos, photographs, and written narratives shared on social media and local media partners, the foundation documents the progress of the children it serves. These tools allow supporters to see tangible impact while ensuring that stories are told with dignity and respect through informed consent, Sonko emphasized.
This approach not only amplifies the voices of beneficiaries but also reinforces transparency, a critical factor in building donor confidence. By focusing on growth and resilience rather than hardship, the foundation presents a narrative that inspires continued support and participation.
The foundation’s commitment to community care is especially visible during significant moments such as Ramadan. During the recent observance, food items and clothing were distributed to vulnerable families, bringing relief and joy to children in need. “In such moments, every child deserves tranquility and joy,” Sonko noted, emphasizing compassion during times of reflection and solidarity.
However, challenges remain. The demand for assistance continues to grow, often outpacing available resources. Sonko has called on philanthropists both within The Gambia and abroad to step forward and support vulnerable communities. “It is in such times that humanity, and Gambians in particular, need to join hearts and minds to help each other shoulder to shoulder,” he urged.
Looking ahead, the Sonko Foundation for Orphans aims to expand its reach while strengthening sustainability. Central to this vision is the continued use of ethical storytelling to connect donors with impact and elevate community-driven solutions.
As philanthropy across The Gambia evolves, the work of the Sonko Foundation underscores a broader truth: giving alone is not enough. The stories behind that gift shape understanding, inspire action, and sustain change.
As Nelson Mandela once said, “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others,” while thanking his partners, donors, and stakeholders, Lamin Sonko extoled donors for their generosity.
