Addressing participants, Mayor Lowe said the new project builds on a successful pilot previously implemented with Bloomberg and has now been adopted by the council to ensure long-term sustainability. She emphasized the importance of taking ownership rather than depending on donors indefinitely and confirmed that RAFELA will serve as the implementing body while BCC provides guidance and oversight.
The programme begins with more than 70 youth workers who were part of the earlier pilot and proven effective. Another 70 will be added next month, bringing the number to 140, with the ultimate goal of employing 300 youths by February. She noted that although the council cannot employ every young person in Banjul, this initiative provides a meaningful opportunity for many and sets the foundation for expansion.
Mayor Lowe appealed to the youth and community to take full ownership of the project, stressing that it belongs to the people of Banjul. She cautioned workers against abusing the system and reminded them that donors, the media, supervisors, and the community are observing the project’s performance. Under the structure, supervisors will report to lead coordinator Dodou Janko, who will in turn report directly to the Mayor’s Office.
She acknowledged the support of various partners, including potential contributors such as Africell, QCell, Authority, and Max Line, and expressed gratitude to the Ministry responsible for local government for taking the project seriously and supporting efforts to make Banjul as clean as other capital cities. She also thanked the Deputy Mayor, BCC management, and all participating staff for their commitment.
Mayor Lowe reminded workers that the Mayor is not their direct boss and that the project operates under a strict reporting and accountability structure. She stressed that each worker will receive a three-month contract to ensure seriousness and discipline. Any worker found ineffective by supervisors and the lead coordinator will face termination based on the project’s performance standards. She reiterated that she will not offer favours and will base all decisions on merit and value.
The Mayor reaffirmed her commitment to responsibility and leadership, stating that she will take responsibility for both successes and failures of the project. She urged the youth to see the work as a shared mission, adding that if they fail, she also fails. She concluded by calling on all participants and journalists to support and give visibility to what she described as a significant legacy initiative for the city.
