By Fatou Bojang
In a noteworthy effort to bolster youth participation in governance, ActionAid International the Gambia (AAITG) has launched a three-day training program to equip journalists and social media influencers with the essential skills to advocate for marginalized young voices.
This initiative, funded by the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund (UNPBF), is part of the “Empowering Marginalized Young People for Inclusion in Civic Space and Local Infrastructure for Peace (YPI)” project. This project underscores the vital role of youth in shaping a sustainable future for The Gambia.
The training highlighted the pressing need for young people’s involvement in governance. Amadou W. Jallow, Communications Coordinator at AAITG, remarked, “Young people’s participation in governance and decision-making has never been more important.” Jallow’s comments align with the program’s objective to empower media professionals to amplify youth narratives and foster civic engagement.
This initiative reflects ActionAid’s strategic commitment to inclusivity. It aims to integrate marginalized groups—particularly youth, women, and individuals with disabilities—into governance structures.
Journalists and bloggers, identified as influential figures in shaping public discourse, were encouraged to identify obstacles to youth participation and hold decision-makers accountable.
Landing B. Sanneh, Chairman of the Mansakonko Area Council, echoed the call for inclusive decision-making, advocating for active roles for youth and women within civic spaces. He acknowledged the existing challenges but emphasized the potential for meaningful change if the insights gained from this training are shared and implemented.
As The Gambia navigates its future, the collaboration between AAITG, civil society, and local governments aims to create an enabling environment for youth leadership, positioning young people as essential catalysts for transformation in the nation’s governance landscape.
