Over two hundred delegates from across Wuli West and beyond on 9April 2011 took part in the District congress and Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Beakanyang.
The Barrow Kunda Beakanyang Kafoo is a registered non-for-profit, non-political and independent community-based organization in the Upper River Region
The event, which lasted till late evening, was held at Barrow Kunda Day Care Centre under the theme: ‘promoting democracy at the grassroots level.’
As part of the event, participants reviewed the activities of the organization, reviewed and adopted a new constitution and also had a session on good governance.
The activity and financial reports of the organization were also presented and adopted during the Congress as well as the election of a new executive.
Welcoming delegates and guests, the president of the organization, Tumani Danjo, commended the
He also commended the
According to him, the organization was founded in 2001 and began full operation in 2004 after registration with the Ministry of Justice.
“As I address this august gathering, we have over two hundred members from across Wuli West and beyond,” he said.
For his part, Nfamara Jawneh, the Secretary General of Beakanyang, said: “It all started when few young and concerned youths of different professional backgrounds from the area realised the need to form a formidable group that can bring sustainable development.
“The creation of the organization was in direct response to the needs and aspirations of our people. It grew from the felt need to effectively mobilize the mass participation of young people and women to get off their fence and work constructively for the building of a culture of peace, human rights, and democracy in the country thus promoting education.”
He added that the organization aims to enhance the participation of disadvantaged people in issues relating to good governance, human rights, education, and health as well as women and youth development in The Gambia.
“Since its inception in 2004, Beakanyang has continued to initiate and implement a number of projects in line with its mission statement,” Mr Jawneh explained. “From a modest beginning in March 2005, the organization has grown over the years and has captivated the attention of government departments, regional organizations, civil society groups, the media and the donor community.”
He told members that they must remain a united group and use their collective strength to fight against all the issues affecting them as young people, thus contributing immensely to nation-building.
The congress and AGM is a day of reflection on their achievements and constraints, Mr Jawneh said, adding that over the years significant successes were registered by the organization, such as opening of an office complex, sponsoring of orphans, provision of milling machines, provision of over 800 mosquito treated bed nets, fencing of schools, gardens, and promotion of human rights and democracy.
Commenting on the theme of the event, the Beakanyang SG said promoting democracy at the grassroots level is fitting for the day.
He added: “As the saying goes charity begins at home, before we start telling others to promote democracy we must lead by example, thus the need for the congress and AGM.”
He also urged delegates to elect more females into the new executive of Beakanyang.
In declaring the forum open on behalf of Governor Omar Khan of URR, the Vice Chairman of Basse Area Council, Jahara Juwara, congratulated Beakanyang for their commitment to national development.
He congratulated the leadership of the organization for being accountable to their members while urging them to keep up the momentum.
Mr Juwara applauded the
The
He also assured the organization of his council’s continued support and collaboration.
Speaking earlier, the Councillor of Sare Ngai Ward, Alkally Kebbeh, said he was pleased to be associated with Beakanyang while assuring them of his continual support.
Foday Barrow, Alkalo of Barrow Kunda, praised the group for brining unprecedented development to the area.
Oustass Yahya Sumareh, Board Chairman of Beakanyang, and Mrs Fatoumata Kebbeh of Beakanyang, all spoke at the event.
