#Youth Forum

Regional Youth Committees inaugurated to strengthen youth leadership, representation in Gambia

Jan 20, 2026, 12:32 PM | Article By: Lamin Darboe

The National Youth Council (NYC) has officially inaugurated Regional Youth Committees across The Gambia to strengthen youth leadership and representation in the country.

The NYC successfully inaugurated the Central River Region (CRR), Upper River Region, and other Regional Youth Committees.

The event brought together key stakeholders and dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Central River Region, Sainey Mbye; the NYC Chairperson, Satang Mahmoud Dumbuya; the Deputy Executive Director, Mberry Jobe Yayi Yasin; the Regional Youth Coordinator, Mr Jim Lowe, and the Peace, Security and Justice Officer, Omar Bah, at the National Youth Council, alongside youth leaders and partners from the regions.

The inauguration marks a historic moment following the successful election of the Regional Youth Committee members, who are now officially mandated to steer, coordinate, and advance the affairs of young people in the Central River Region. The establishment of the committee reinforces the NYC’s commitment to decentralize youth governance, inclusive participation, and effective youth representation at the regional level.

In his remarks, the Deputy Governor, Alhagie Sainey Mbye, commended the National Youth Council for its continuous efforts to empower young people and strengthen youth structures nationwide.

Deputy Governor Mbaye assured the newly inaugurated committee of the Governor’s Office’s unwavering support and encouraged them to work collaboratively with regional authorities to drive meaningful youth development initiatives.

The Governor of Upper River Region and the Chairman of Basse Area Council both highlighted the critical role of youth as agents of positive change.

The duo encouraged committee members to uphold principles of leadership, accountability, unity and service to the broader youth constituency of URR.

The pair reaffirmed the importance of collaboration in addressing youth-related challenges and advancing sustainable development initiatives across the region.

Delivering her inaugural statement, Chairperson of National Youth Council (NYC), Satang Dumbuya, congratulated the committee members and challenged young people of the regions to remain proactive, innovative, and united.

Dumbuya urged them to identify and tap into the vast opportunities available within the Central River Region, build strategic partnerships, and actively seek support from institutions and stakeholders to ensure effective service delivery and sustainable impact for young people.

She thanked the outgoing leader and the incoming Regional Chairperson Abdoulie Jawara for his service to the young people.

The inauguration of the Regional Youth Committee represents a renewed commitment to youth leadership, accountability, and participatory governance.

As NYC continues its regional inauguration tour, this milestone sets the pace for stronger, more responsive youth structures dedicated to advancing the voice, interests and development of young people across The Gambia.

Source: National Youth Council