Deputies at the National Assembly recently ratified the African Youth Charter tabled before the house by the Minister for Tourism Madam Nancy Njie on behalf of Sheriff Gomez, Minister for Youth and Sports.
The charter is been guided by the vision, hopes and aspirations of the African Union and is all-encompassing of
It emphasized the inherent dignity and inalienable rights afforded to members of the human family as set out in the United Nations Universal Declaration of human rights. The charter recognizes that youths are partners, assets and a prerequisite for sustainable development, and that they are of strategic importance for the peace and prosperity of the African continent, with a unique contribution to make for present and future development.
It acknowledges the role the youth have played in the process of de-colonization, the struggle against apartheid and its efforts in encouraging development and promotion of peace in the democratization processes on the Africa.
In seconding the motion for the adoption of the charter, Hon. Seedy Njie, nominated member, spoke on the responsibilities of the young people. According to him, the youths have an obligation to the state, their parents and the African continent as a whole.
Fabakary Tombong Jatta, the Majority leader and member for Serrekunda East, applauded the ratification of the charter. He reaffirmed government's commitment for the empowerment of youths. He described the youths as a vibrant and energetic category of the population who are the future leaders of the country. According to him, the move to ratify the African Youth Charter is a clear indication of The Gambia government's commitment to address the problems of the youths.