The convergence brought together different youth leaders across the ECOWAS sub-region.
The theme for this year's forum was "Youth Digital Innovation for Inclusivity Regional Economic Growth, Peace and Stability.”
In his statement after the summit, The Peace Network CEO, Mr Alasana Justice Jallow expressed gratitude to the ECOWAS Commission for the foresight in reconvening another summit and inviting youth across the region to participate in discussing issues pivotal to the development of youth and the region in general.
"We appreciate the opportunity as Peace Network to represent youth of West Africa at this Summit,” he added.
“I have the conviction that West African youth are innovative, inspirational and doing remarkable works across the region and around the world. The continuous involvement of the youth in developmental activities will help a lot in promoting growth and ensuring peace and stability in the region,” Mr Jallow said.
According to him, it is said in many gatherings that 63% of the population in West Africa are youth below 24 years, noting that therefore the voice of the youth matters in every endeavours geared towards promoting regional growth and development.
The CEO added that, "during the two days summit, I was inspired by the wonderful contributions of the different youth from different countries in West Africa. Their innovations and activities in their various countries worth to be supported. This is an indication that the youth of West Africa, once given the necessary support and empowerment can bring the transformation that the region is yearning for. I have no doubt in the ability and the competence of the youth of West Africa."
“It is important to stress that the declaration from the Summit will be highly respected and the recommendations implemented. Equally, I believe ECOWAS will continue to engage the youth and involve them in every activity that concerns the prosperity of the region. We are talking about agenda 2050! This cannot be achieved without meaningful involvement of the youth in programs and activities that will ensure realisation of the vision. Therefore, as we strive towards vision 2050, it is important to have young people in the centre stage of decision making," he stated.
CEO Jallow in conclusion encouraged youth across the ECOWAS Region to be resilient and innovative. He called on the youth who are into drugs and crimes to abstain from them and come up with innovative solutions to support the development of the region.
Meanwhile, The Peace Network is a youth led institution which remains dedicated to promote peace, security and development in The Gambia and in The ECOWAS Region.
