The Ministry of Youth and Sports (MOYS) plays a vital role in shaping the direction of youth and sports development in The Gambia.
However, the actual implementation of programmes and initiatives happens at the institutional level through its various agencies such as departments and affiliated bodies.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports (MOYS) is responsible for formulating policies such as mobilizing resources, securing funding and setting strategic priorities for the youth and sports sectors.
It ensures that government policies align with national development goals and international commitments.
The Ministry also serves as the key liaison between the government, development partners and stakeholders in advocating for investments in youth programmes and sports infrastructure.
The Ministry sets the vision and its affiliated institutions are responsible for execution.
- Department of Youth and Sports (DYS): provides technical support, oversight and coordination for institutions under MOYS.
- National Youth Council (NYC): leads on youth empowerment programmes, capacity-building and advocacy.
- The National Enterprise Development Initiative (NEDI): implements entrepreneurship and business development support for young people in the country.
- The Gambia National Sports Council (NSC): oversees sports federations, ensures compliance with national sports policies, and facilitates sports infrastructure development.
- President International Award (PIA): runs skill-based and character-building programmes for youth in the country.
- The National Youth Scheme: plays a vital role in skills development, employability and national service for Gambian youth.
- The Independence Stadium and Friendship Hostel (ISFH): serves as hubs for sports, national events and accommodation for athletes and visitors.
The facilities were built to play a crucial role in sports development, youth engagement and revenue generation for The Gambia.
There are two major projects\initiatives under the Ministry of Youth and Sports called The Gambia Songhai Initiative (GSI) focusing on farming and building young agropreneurs in the country.
Youth Connekt The Gambia connects young people to opportunities in the country.
Meanwhile, Executive Director of the National Youth Council (NYC), Alagie Jarju, has extended “sincere gratitude” to ICYF delegation for their recent visit to The Gambia.
Jarju stated that it was a pleasure to host the delegation and engage in meaningful discussions on strengthening youth development initiatives in country and beyond.
He further stated the visit was a proof to ICYF’s commitment to empowering young people and fostering collaboration among member states.
‘‘The exchanges we had were insightful and inspiring, and we greatly appreciate the support and opportunities ICYF continues to provide for Gambian youth,’’ Executive Director Jarju said.
Jarju revealed that NYC is looking forward to deepening their partnership and working together on initiatives that would positively impact the lives of young people in The Gambia and the region.
He extended his appreciation to ICYF and expressed hope to welcome them again in the near future.
