Implemented by Forward Ltd, the project targets young Gambians as it aims to simplify ECOWAS ideals and demonstrate how regional integration creates opportunities in trade, free movement, infrastructure, energy, employment and cross-border business development, according to Isatou Cham-Drammeh, founder of Forward Ltd.
A key focus of the campaign is engaging students, youth leaders and institutions to build ownership of ECOWAS principles of peace, unity and sustainable development.
Speaking at the launch, Minister for Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, described the clubs as a vital initiative for youth development.
“Having ECOWAS clubs in The Gambia is a very important initiative because it will create an ecosystem where young people can be trained to understand exactly where they are from and what they need to do to develop their communities and their society, but also their region.”
Dr. Ceesay added that the clubs can serve as breeding grounds to prepare ECOWAS leaders.
National Assembly Member Hon. Halifa Sallah, who also addressed participants, emphasised critical thinking and warned against mis-information.
He said false information clouds public judgment and weakens decision-making and urged a commitment to evidence-based discourse.
“Misinformation is a weapon designed to mislead. It attacks clarity and consciousness. Only the mis-educated can be misinformed.” Sallah stated.
Officially launching the initiative, ECOWAS Resident Representative in The Gambia, Her Excellency Miatta Lily French, called the project a milestone for nurturing future ECOWAS leaders.
She encouraged students to take ownership of the clubs and their purpose.
“Use the club to build The Gambia you want and the ECOWAS you desire,” he added.
