Gert (PA2LO) reports that although the C5 prefix isn’t inherently rare, ham radio activity from The Gambia had been dormant for a while—until recently, when operators like the C5T/C5I teams began hitting the airwaves again. In 2025, interest from “the smiling coast of Africa” is surging as several individuals and groups are gearing up for operations from this region.
Recent highlights include:
-
February Activity:
- A group of POTA enthusiasts operated as C5PL, activating various parks.
- Brief CW operations were conducted by Alan (C5DX) and later by C5PWL.
-
Upcoming Operations:
- More extensive “all mode, all band” DXpeditions are planned by operators C5R (Luc F5RAV) and C5LT (Lui YT3PL) for April, which promise full-spectrum activity.
Given the recent burst of activity, I’ve decided to streamline my setup—focusing primarily on SSB (with some CW)—rather than deploying antennas for every band. My QTH is Bijilo (Locator: IK13pk), and I’ll be active from March 16 to 25, 2025.
QSL & Log Information:
- I’ve received my LoTW certificate and upload my logs as soon as possible during my stay in The Gambia.
- Expect daily log uploads to Club Log, and for those needing a paper QSL, please send a request via my home call (PA2LO) using either direct mail or the bureau.
A special thanks to everyone who helped secure the C5 license and provided valuable operating insights for The Gambia. Your support is greatly appreciated!
73 and happy DXing!
Leave a comment
All comments are moderated before being published.
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.