Young people from The Gambia are taking part in a weeklong training on campaign and youth leadership to help in the fight against hunger.
The training is being hosted by the Gambia Pastoralist Institute (GPI), along
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Alhagie Kebbeh, the Director of National Alliance for Food Security (NAYAF's) said that it was very important that the training was held here in
He said that the developed world has been vigorously engaged in the crusade, thus the need for us to follow their example.
He used the forum to recognise the crucial role played by the National Women Farmers Association (NAWFA) in the drive towards food sufficiency.
Kebbeh encouraged both trainers and the participants to work together during the week for a successful programme.
For her part, Simone Hagensen, a representative from
According to her, the training would be conducted by four trainers, including her humble self to help build the capacity of youths in the field of advocacy, their rights and to make their voices heard.
She urged the participants to cooperate with them so as to share their experience and knowledge.
She stressed that 60% of the global population are youths and the international training is a good platform for exchanging ideas.
The visiting trainer advised them to keep the promise to free the billion hungry in the world.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Omar Badjie Action Aid the Gambia (AATG) said that Africa Youth Coalition Against Hunger (AYCAH) was initiated five years ago to address the core issues responsible for the cause of hunger, especially in the developing countries that are most affected by hunger.
He challenged the youth that AYCAH should not be limited to five countries, but
He lamented that in the developed countries 4-5 % feed the whole world, but here in The Gambia even though 40% are engaged in farming cannot feed themselves through out the year. Badgie admonished youths to share the message with the wider society.
He advised the youths to stick together and move on the same directions, adding that they need to have a focus. He further challenged young people that they should do all it takes to make climate change have less damage on the environment.
He also emphasised that the training has come at the right time, noting that developing the capacity of youths is essential.
He added that the participants should be trained and be able to train others to make a difference in their lives.
For him, the purpose of the training is to change people's perspective in relations to behaviour. He urged the participants to be committed to strengthening the network and partnership to achieve the purpose of a 'free the billion Hungry' slogan.
