By Lamarana S. Jallow
His Excellency the President of Republic of The Gambia Mr. Adama Barrow is expected to officially preside over the opening ceremony of the 13th edition of the National Youth Conference and Festival (NaYCONF) set to commence on Thursday, 15th December 2022 in Banjul. He gave this assurance on Friday, December 9th during his audience with members of National Organising Committee of the 2022 NaYCONF, at State House.
The meeting was meant to update the President on the level of preparedness of the NOC as well as to thank him for his support to the upcoming NaYCONF.
The Gambian leader reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting young people in the development of The Gambia while urging them to be responsible and remain positive at all times. He assured the delegation that he will do his personal donation.
Bakary Y. Badjie, the Minister of Youth and Sports, who doubles as the Chairman of the NOC, hailed the government and donors for their support, and assured that the funds would be put to good use.
Ousman Fatty, Chairman of the National Youth Council, affirmed that President Barrow will be the chief guest of honour, saying his participation will boost the morale of young people.
Eight million and five hundred thousand Dalasi has been budgeted for the 8-day event by the Government of The Gambia through the Ministry of Youth and Sports, to be implemented by National Youth Council (NYC).
The 13th edition of the biennial gathering of youths is expected to attract 2000 delegates from the country and abroad. It will feature several activities, including a national youth conference, sporting competitions, pitching competition, cooking competition, entrepreneurship, wrestling as well as traditional and cultural performances.
The theme for this year’s event is: “The role of youth in the maintenance of peace and security for socio-economic development of the economic; challenges and opportunities”.
