ActionAid International trains 50 youths on impact of irregular migration and entrepreneurship
By: Haruna Kuyateh
The ActionAid International The Gambia Juffureh Office of LRP 9 has recently wrapped up its two days training program for 50 youth on irregular migration and entrepreneurship, and skill development.
The training was held in Juffureh in Upper Nuimi in the North Bank Region and it provided the opportunity for them to share their experiences en route to European countries through the ‘Backway.’
Saikou F Bah Program and Sponsorship Coordinator Local Rights Program 9 described the training as important in building the capacity of youths for entrepreneurship and it is important in addressing irregular migration. He said ActionAid believes in harnessing the potential of young people to effectively participate in national development.
ActionAid is fully committed to poverty eradication and fight against injustice and therefore building the capacity of youths on entrepreneurship, the impact of irregular migration and skill development is crucial for youths and women’s development, through creating their line of businesses.
Among other issues, they discussed the dangers of irregular migration and its negative impact on society. The training provided an opportunity for young people within Upper Nuimi to be aware of opportunities available in the country that they can fully utilise to transform their lives.
Action Aid is committed to youth empowerment, citing providing a grant of D32,000 to youths to enable them to get donkeys, shine hoes, seedlings, and small ruminants to fully realize their potential in agriculture.
He used the moment to thank Mamadi Jobe of Sami Tenda, a migrant returnee for sharing some touching experiences of the Mediterranean sea.
Kaddy B Jallow Entrepreneurship Trainer at NYSS focused on entrepreneurship and skills development. She said the training will help youths to identify potential businesses to grow at the community level and be able to manage their businesses. She noted that more opportunities were provided by the government, citing NYSS and others institutions meant to support skill development in the area of carpentry, metal works, tilling, tailoring, painting, and saloon businesses.
Alagie K Saho Councilor Pakau ward who doubles as vice chairman of Kerewan Area Council thanked ActionAid Juffureh Office for the foresight in complementing council efforts in youth development.
He said the marathon would enhance mutual understanding and cooperation among the youthful population of Upper Nuimi. He assured them of the council’s commitment to work with development partners to enhance youth participation in all sectors of the economy and including sports.
Ousainou Jallow district sports chairperson for Upper Nuimi called for more support and partnership to strengthen sports development. He described the marathon as important in bringing youths from all worth of life to showcase their talents.