The Gambia has also reaffirmed its dedication to advancing regional youth empowerment, institutionalizing the platform and strengthening youth leadership across the Sahel.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Republic of The Gambia, Bulli M. Dibba, represented Youth Minister Bakary Y. Badjie in the Youth Connekt Sahel Forum Steering committee meeting held recently in Niamey, Niger.
The meeting brought together Youth ministers and key stakeholders to advance discussions on the institutionalization, sustainability and governance of the Youth Connekt Sahel Forum.
The forum was established as the first regional platform of Youth Connekt Africa.
Among the key issues discussed was the institutionalization process of the Youth Connekt Sahel Forum, including the validation of its Charter, governance pillars and procedures for hosting future editions of the Forum.
The Committee also discussed mechanisms for monitoring and follow up on commitments and recommendations emerging from previous editions, particularly in continuity with the N’Djamena Declaration.
The discussions further focused on ensuring that Youth Connekt Sahel evolves into a sustainable, legitimate and effective regional platform for economic, social and civic transformation, capable of strengthening regional cooperation and ensuring that the priorities of young people across the Sahel are reflected in continental youth policy processes.
As Youth Connekt Sahel enters a new phase of institutionalization, The Gambia remains committed to strengthening youth leadership, regional solidarity and meaningful youth participation in shaping the future of the Sahel.
During the Youth Connekt Sahel Forum 2026 held in the Nigerien city of Niamey, The Gambia reaffirmed its strong commitment to supporting Youth Connekt Sahel as the initiative enters a vital new phase of regional institutionalization and structural development.
Institutionalization: Validating the charter, governance pillars, and hosting frameworks for the regional platform.
Policy Influence: Transitioning youth involvement from basic civic participation to active decision-making.
Peace and Security: Focusing on social cohesion and the prevention of violent extremism.
Institutionalisation Focus: Contributed to discussions on validating the Youth Connekt Sahel Charter, setting up governance pillars, and building a sustainable regional transformation platform.
Policy and Security Discussions: Participating in high-level panels addressing social cohesion, preventing violent extremism, and elevating youth influence in public policies.
During the Youth Connekt Sahel Forum, Bulli M. Dibba, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, spoke on community security and peace dividends.
Hon. Jabou Sisaw, Speaker of the National Youth Parliament, addressed youth leadership in public policy.
Basiru Jaye, Youth Connekt Focal Person for The Gambia, participated in steering committee sessions.
