The activity which involved four orientation sessions in four administrative regions; North Bank, West Coast Region, Kanifing and Banjul Administrative areas, was organised by NCCE and supported by UNICEF under the Joint UN Strengthening women’s political participation and leadership through reformed legislation, community-level leadership, and political parties’ engagement in The Gambia project.
About 200 participants, mainly from the Youth Branch of the Inter-Party Committee (YOUBIC) in these regions, as well as other youth and women leaders, civil society organisations, local authorities, and aspiring young politicians took part in the orientations to raise awareness, promote democratic values, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.
The training under the theme: “Advocating for Women Leadership: A Journey through Laws and Policies” was aimed at equipping participants with the necessary knowledge, skills, and values to become informed, engaged and responsible citizens, and inspire a new generation of leaders who are committed to upholding democratic principles, promoting tolerance, and working towards the betterment of their communities and society as a whole.
Lamin Sima, regional youth coordinator for North Bank Region thanked NCCE for organising such an orientation which he said is needed by youth to build their capacities. It is also to encourage them to participate in politics in a peaceful manner and play key roles in the development of the country. He urged the participants to spread the message in their various areas.
Seedia Sillah, regional electoral officer for the Independent Electoral Commission in NBR, emphasised the importance of youth political participation as they constitute a large number of registered voters.
He stated that many believe that IEC is only active during elections period, noting that this is not the case as elections form one part of their agenda.
He also thanked NCCE for continuing to raise awareness among citizens of The Gambia on various issues that affect their lives.
Mr Sillah urged young people to build up good moral in themselves, gain knowledge and understanding of issues especially political discourse. “To gain success in politics, one need to build your capacity on politics and on leadership skills,” he highlighted.
Kemo Jawara, regional Inter-Party Youth Committee Co-Vice Chairman thanked NCCE and UNICEF for the activity.
