In a statement he delivered at the official opening of the 2022 National Youth Conference and Festival (NAYCONF) His Excellency President Adama Barrow described the NAYCONF as “a peaceful convergence that accommodates festivity and sport alongside in-depth reflection on serious issues and productive work that attracts Government’s attention and influences policy and programme development”.
The 13th edition of the biennial gathering of youths – NAYCONF - is underway in the capital city of Banjul and organisers say it attracts 2000 delegates from the country and abroad.
Further in his address the President remarked: “There is agreement that the youths are the cream of society, and they play an important role in the socio-economic advancement of nations.
It is vital, therefore, to hear their ‘voice’ and, indeed, listen to them attentively.
NAYCONF is an event that allows this to happen. It also creates openings to explore and promote youth matters and to chart new pathways in the best interest of the youth and from their perspective.”
He said over the years, the Government has been taking the NAYCONF resolutions with utmost importance. This, he said, “clearly manifests the significance of NAYCONF as a platform to articulate ideas, examine issues, propose solutions to challenges, and initiate change and development,” and that event of such nature rekindles our hopes and strengthens our faith in the youth”.
The President expressed the need for the youth to take a lead role in jealously safeguarding our peace and security. “Hand-in-glove, we must work to guarantee prosperity and stability so that future generations lead comfortable lives in peace and be proud of us all”.
He went on: “We are encouraged that Gambian youths have taken the responsibility to discuss issues of education, technology and innovation, entrepreneurship, and skills. It is through these elements that the youth can be empowered enough to become more productive and better useful citizens”.
He promised that his Government will continue to provide the enabling environment for Gambian youths to succeed in the country without the need to embark on dangerous journeys.
He also used the opportunity to call on the youth to spread the message of peace as the country heads towards the Local Government Elections next year, saying elections are not meant to incite trouble. “Instead, they are a peaceful means of choosing representatives. Your role, as youths, to make sure that all elections are peaceful is critical and, therefore, solicited”.
President Barrow finally thanked the UN Peace Building Fund, through UNFPA, for providing the needed funds for the successful implementation of these instruments.
The theme for 2022 NAYCONF is ‘The Role of Young People in the Maintenance of Peace and Security for Socio-Economic Development Opportunities and Challenges’.
Eight million and five hundred thousand Dalasi is said to have been budgeted for the 8-day event by the Government of The Gambia through the Ministry of Youth and Sports.
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.
