#Youth Forum

NYC initiates consultations for national action plan on youth

Oct 8, 2024, 10:46 AM | Article By: Lamin Darboe

The National Youth Council (NYC) has initiated constituency consultations for the development of the first-ever national action plan on youth, peace and security in The Gambia.

The NYC commenced its constituency consultations for the development of the first-ever national action plan on youth, peace, and security at the Dinding Bantaba in Sibanor village, Foni.

Participants at the consultation include youth, local authorities, children, people with disabilities and the security.

The NYC engaged in discussions and interactions with the consultant leading the process. The discussions focused on the five key pillars of the Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) agenda.

The NYC emphasised the importance of active youth involvement in decision-making processes at all levels, ensuring their voices are heard and integrated into peace building efforts.

They discussed proactive measures to prevent conflicts, with a focus on creating opportunities for young people to contribute to peace and stability within their communities.

The NYC highlighted the importance of safeguarding the rights and well-being of youth, especially those affected by violence or conflict, ensuring their safety and dignity are upheld.

The constituency consultations would explore ways to strengthen collaboration between youth, government bodies, civil society, and international organizations to foster a unified approach to peace and security.

The consultations also discussed strategies for supporting young people in disengaging from violence, extremism, or armed conflict and reintegrating them into society through education, employment, and community support.

The National Consultation brought together a diverse group of participants, including government officials, key stakeholders, civil society organizations (CSOs), young people and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

The gathering provided an opportunity to critically discuss and exchange ideas on shaping a comprehensive and inclusive NAP that reflects the voices and needs of all Gambians, particularly the youth.

Fifteen constituency consultations will be conducted across the country, the NYC expressed readiness to reach out to the youth.

The  NYC applauded  UNFPA The Gambia and UNDP The Gambia for funding this significant initiative.

Meanwhile, the inter-ministerial dialogue on The Gambia’s National Youth Policy 2019-2028 recently ended at Senegambia Hotel.

Leaders from across ministries came together to address key issues affecting youth.

The ministers discussed actionable steps for partnership and coordination for the successful implementation of the National Youth Policy 2019-2028.