Banjul , The Gambia

At least 31 young people from Finland are currently on a weeklong cultural and learning visit to The Gambia as guests of The Gambia Young Men Christian Association (YMCA).

As part of the visit, YMCA on Monday organised a youth forum on the theme knowing The Gambia at its headquarters in Kanifing for the guests.

In welcoming the guests, the Director of YMCA, Mr. Sam Thorpe, revealed that The Gambia YMCA have a cordial relationship with Finnish YMCA.“They have been able to help us in most of our activities such as the refurbishment of the top floor of the hostel, a three year advocacy on HIV/AIDS and recently with the Takulegai project which seeks to train Gambian young people in various skills. He encouraged the guests to strengthen the relationship and to take the mission seriously so that they can share the experience with colleges and friends back home. Mr. Thorpe used the occasion to reaffirm The Gambia YMCA’s commitment in empowering the young people of The Gambia.

During the forum presentations were made by Mr. Lamin Camara of UNAID, on the Impact of HIV/AIDS in young people in The Gambia and Mr. Abdoulie Faye Program Officer NYC. Mr. Faye deliberated on the existing instruments to support youth development in The Gambia as well as opportunities and challenges.

Mr. Nana Grey Johnson a renowned journalist and Development Consultant spoke on the role and challenges of women in the socio –economic and socio- cultural development of The Gambia.

Meanwhile, according to YMCA Program Co-ordinator, Mr. Joseph Peacock, during their stay in the country the guests will be visiting schools youth choirs, BanjulCity and the NationalMuseum.