The MGI is a data collection and analysis tool that offers insight into a country’s strengths and weaknesses in managing migration. After the launch of The Gambia’s first MGI report in May 2021, KMC is the first local government to embark on the process.
Talib Ahmed Bensouda, the Mayor of KMC said it is clear that the biggest asset of his municipality is the young people, adding their passion to deliver change in the city has to be supported.
“One of the many ways to achieve this is to provide the enabling environment both at the national and local level to allow young people to stay home and contribute to our economic growth. Cities and municipalities, such as Kanifing, are major sources, transit points, and destinations for migrants.”
He added that the question of how we confront the benefits and challenges of migration should be of interest to all.
At KMC, he reiterated they are committed to providing young people with meaningful social and economic opportunities. Major Bensouda continued that the Council has championed a range of youth-centered initiatives, including a 20 million Dalasi fund for young entrepreneurs, upgrading football pitches, employment opportunities, and the provision of Kanifing Estate Community Centre which is being transformed into a Youth Centre with working spaces for young entrepreneurs.
“We understand that the Local MGI process is aimed at assisting local authorities in assessing the comprehensiveness of their migration policies, strategies, and initiatives. As Council, we are hopeful that this process will help us to take stock of the migration initiatives, assess our strengths and weaknesses to lead us in designing effective policies that will help address migration challenges in our municipality.”
He expressed delight to participate in the next phase of the local MGI process and is confident that the process will avail them the opportunity to have an introspective look at the initiatives they have in place.
“This will help us to identify good practices and guide us in exploring potential areas for further development. With this in mind, I would like to acknowledge the support of all stakeholders in this important initiative.”
The launch was graced by the IOM Chief of Mission Ms. Fumiko Nagano who buttressed the importance of the project and the support of the organisation. The Programme Manager of IOM, Mr. David Martineau also gave an online presentation of the MGI tool, data collection, government, and IOM’s role and benefits of the MGI process.
