Environment minister to launch BAJ Gambia today

The Minister of Environment, Madam Fatou Gaye, is today expected to formally launch the Network of Biodiversity Action Journalists (BAJ) The Gambia, an environmental and natural resources youth led organisation.

A news release issued by the network reveals that the launch will be followed by a training workshop, to be held at TANGO conference hall in Kanifing.

“The first day of the event, the official launching, will be graced by dignitaries from the Ministry of Energy, Department of Water Resources, Fisheries Department, UNDP, FAO, World Wildlife Fund, National Environment Agency, Gambia Press Union, National Assembly Members, Youth Leaders, and many others. It will be followed by a capacity-building programme on the second day for its members,” it added.

The objectives of the programme, among others, include raising public awareness on the environmental threats in a bid to encourage local community participation in protection and conservation of the country’s biological and natural resources for prosperity, the dispatch added.

Commenting on the event, Abdou Rahman Sallah, the National Coordinator of BAJ, said “BAJ has implemented and took part in many activities and other environmental related programmes since its inception to date, at both national and international levels.”

The environmental and natural resources reporters in the country, he explained, have seen the need to come together to form a common front to increase public awareness on environment and other related issues.

Formed in December 2010, with technical assistance from the Department of Parks and Wildlife Management, BAJ-Gambia is an environmental and natural resources youth led organisation registered as a charitable organisation with the Attorney General’s Chamber.

BAJ consists of journalists from the print and electronic media, as well as online journalists, including bloggers and some youth activists, who are also part of the association, the release concluded.