1st edition of joint youth summer camp open in Brikama

The 1st Edition of the joint youth summer organised by Brikama Area Council and the Municipality of Grand Yoff in Dakar recently kicked-off in Brikama, Western Region, at Bottrop Nursery School.

In his introductory remarks, Mr. Modou Jonga, acting Public Relations Officer of Brikama Area Council spoke of the rationale of the protocol agreement, signed between BAC and Grand Yoff Municipality in September 2007. Mr. Jonga also dilated on the goals of the joint youth camp, and underscored the significance of the camp in promoting the culture of peace, tolerance and integration among the participants.

Mr. Edrissa Cham, Saamasang Federation Manager affiliated to Childfund, The Gambia said his federation is a community based organisation that emanated from Mandinka, meaning "buying the future" has been partnering with BAC on all developmental efforts over the years.

For his part, the Chairman of Brikama Area Council, Mr. Sunkary Badjie said the hosting of the youth event is in line with Article 3 of the said protocol agreement. Mr. Badjie disclosed that the goals of the youth camp is to foster, strengthen integration, cooperation, promote peace, attainment of global health and environmental standards, promote cultural and sporting activities, among others.

The BAC Chairman advised the participants to make the optimum use of the event and to disseminate the skills, knowledge and experience to their colleagues who are not opportune to be selected as participants.

The Mayor of Grand Yoff, Mr. Mamadou Mbaye said the event manifests a common desire by his municipality and BAC to strengthen the already brotherly ties that exist between The Gambia and Senegal. Mayor Mbaye further took the opportunity to express gratitude on behalf of his Municipality to President Jammeh for creating the enabling environment for the existence of the partnership.

In his official opening statement, on behalf of Western Region Governor, Hon. Matarr Kujabi, the National Assembly Member for Foni Bondali commended the management of the two parties for the initiative and spoke of the need to inculcate discipline in children as future leaders. Hon. Kujabi reiterated the need for the participants to live up to expectations.

The ceremony was punctuated by musical entertainment by participants and exhibition of skills artistic works by the participants. Other speakers included, Mr. Modou Ceesay Ward Councilor of Kembujeh, Mr. Madiop Diop Grand Yoff Youth Representative and Mr. Mamud Jawla Regional Youth/Sports Officer.