By: Fatou krubally
The Gambia has officially launched its National Action Plan on Youth Peace and Security, reaffirming its commitment to empowering young people as leaders in peace and development.
The initiative, guided by United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250, seeks to amplify the voices of Gambian youth in decision-making processes related to peace and security.
Rose Sarr, UNFPA Country Representative, underscored the plan’s transformative potential, urging all stakeholders to ensure it translates into real action.
“This is more than just a document; it is a commitment to recognize young people as key stakeholders in shaping The Gambia’s future,” she said. She emphasized the role of youth in preventing conflict and fostering social cohesion, stressing that their engagement must go beyond tokenism.
Karl Frederick Paul, UNDG Resident Coordinator, echoed these sentiments, praising the inclusive approach that saw over 2,000 young Gambians contribute to shaping the plan. “Youth engagement in peace and security cannot be an afterthought it must be a strategic priority,” he stated. He called for effective execution and rigorous monitoring, ensuring that young people are not just consulted but actively involved in decision-making.
Adding to the discussion, UNDP Resident Representative Mandisa Mashologu highlighted the importance of tailored solutions to address youth concerns. “We must move beyond generic interventions and design policies that reflect the realities of young Gambians,” she urged. She cited UNDP’s partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, particularly through initiatives like the Shanghai Initiative and the National Youth Service Scheme, as examples of efforts to empower young people.
Meanwhile, German Ambassador to The Gambia, Klaus Botzet, lauded the country for its bold step in launching the action plan. “This is a historic achievement,” he remarked. He pledged Germany’s continued support, emphasizing that national ownership and international collaboration are “crucial to ensuring the plan’s success.”
Declaring the plan officially launched, Honorable Bakary Y. Badjie, Minister of Youth and Sports, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to positioning young Gambians as key players in peace and development. “Our youth are not just the future they are the present. We must invest in their potential, give them platforms to lead, and ensure they are at the forefront of decision-making,” he declared. He urged all stakeholders to support the plan’s implementation and ensure that it becomes a “living framework, not just words on paper.”
The launch of the National Action Plan on Youth Peace and Security marks a significant milestone in The Gambia’s commitment to youth empowerment. With strong backing from both national and international partners, the plan is expected to pave the way for a more inclusive, peaceful, and youth-driven future.
