By: Haruna Kuyateh
Action Aid International The Gambia on Tuesday commenced a three-day training for journalists and bloggers on promoting positive youth participation in civic space held in Mansakonko Area Council Conference Hall of Lower River Region (LRR).
The ongoing training was organized by AAITG under the empowerment of marginalized young people or inclusion in civic space and local infrastructure for peace, and it aimed to equip media professionals with the knowledge and skills to effectively report on youth engagement in civic matters, fostering a more inclusive and informed society.
The training covered the role of journalism in shaping youth narratives, understanding youth participation in civic space, digital media and blogging for civic engagement, policy and legal frameworks affecting youth civic participation, fact checking and responsible journalism, youth participation in policy and decision-making and story telling techniques for social change.
Amadou W Jallow, Communications and Coordinator at Action Aid International The Gambia said This training said sustainable development and inclusive governance can only be achieved when all citizens—especially young people—are actively involved in decision-making structures.
A commitment, he disclosed, that is deeply rooted in the Country’s Strategic Paper VI, particularly under Strategic Priority 1: Recognition, Promotion, Protection, and Fulfillment of the Rights of People Living in Poverty and Exclusion (PLIP & Exclusion).
Under Strategic Objective 1, he said they are dedicated to advocating for and promoting the inclusion of women, men, youth, people living with HIV (PLHIVs), and persons with disabilities (PwDs) in governance and decision-making processes.
“Therefore, we are committed to empowering young people with the skills, knowledge, and platforms needed to actively participate in governance. We achieve this through initiatives that strengthen youth leadership, provide capacity-building, and support advocacy efforts that promote greater youth inclusion,” he noted.
He said this initiative played a crucial role in strengthening youth participation and fostering a culture of peace, inclusion, and resilience within communities.
However, the role of journalists and bloggers in this process cannot be overlooked, “Your platforms serve as a powerful tool to highlight youth-led initiatives, uncover barriers to youth participation, and hold decision-makers accountable. A well-informed and engaged media sector strengthens democracy and ensures that youth narratives are amplified,” he stated.
ActionAid International The Gambia remains steadfast in its mission to work alongside young people, empowering them to become architects of the just and inclusive society we all aspire to build, he added.
Landing B Sanneh, Chairman of Mansakonko Area Council underscored the council’s commitment to working with Action Aid and other stakeholders in promoting youth participation in civic space.
He noted that youth capacity needs to be enhanced, invested in, and supported.
Meanwhile, he challenged journalists and bloggers to be vigilant in the design of comprehensive programs on various platforms for youth participation in civic space to bring about sustainable development.
Fatou Jeng Knowledge and Communication Officer of UN Peace Building Fund disclosed that the Gambia benefitted $40 million from 2017 to 2024.
She said the program aimed at strengthening and bridging capacity gaps and sharing valuable information in the best interest of youths.
Madam Jeng used the moment to call on journalists and bloggers to work together and make a difference in youth participation in civic space.