The model was endorsed by the African Union (AU) as a major implementing modality of the African Youth Charter, and equally has been embraced by a good number of AU Member States for its innovative design and implementation, policy harmonization, harnessing programmes and partnership within countries or nations.
It further aims to provide African youth with the skills, networks and information needed to scale their initiatives and gain meaningful employment.
The Gambia was among the pioneer (six) countries in Africa to launch Youth Connekt programme in October 2018.
In total 33 Member States have launched the programme and many others are in the process of implementing or scaling up the model.
To achieve the goals of Youth Connekt Gambia, the Government of The Gambia through the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the National Youth Council (NYC), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and other strategic partners, have initiated and rolled out programmes linked to the various goals of Youth Connekt such as Regional and National Youth Connekt Summits.
The inaugural regional dialogues and National Summit of the first edition were held in 2019. The National Summit was officiated by H.E. Adama Barrow, President of the Republic of The Gambia, the Minister of Youth and Sports, UNDP Deputy Resident Coordinator, Chairman of the National Youth Council (NYC) and other dignitaries.
More than 300 delegates participated in the regional and national events.
The National Summit’s second edition was held in 2022 with more than 400 participants.
The popularization of Youth Connekt goals was carried out in all the seven regions of The Gambia and this targeted local government authorities, youth and women.
Mapping and clustering of youth groups and initiatives in the country, more than 150 youth groups and initiatives participated in the mapping and profiling of NYC website.
More than 10 public policies and programmes were reviewed and more than 300 opinions generated on the efficiency / effectiveness of the public policies and programmes sampled.
More than 300 youth delegates were mobilized and given the opportunity to provide feedback on the various reform mechanisms and development issues in the country.
Their understanding of these mechanisms will allow for better participation and ownership of the reforms processes increased.
During the National Youth Conference and Festival (NAYCONF) 2022, a consultative meeting was conducted on recovery focused on NDP – National Development Plan.
Twelve young entrepreneurs pitched their innovative ideas to address specific social problems that have been supported with a total amount of GMD750,000.00 and reports have shown marked improvements in the business of the supported entrepreneurs.
Two of the beneficiaries were taken to Kigali, Rwanda, in 2022 to have a deal room with investors and also connect with other young entrepreneurs across Africa.
They conducted youth fairs for young entrepreneurs who provide an opportunity to display their products and services, network among themselves and to also market.
They also conducted Digital and Electronic Skills Festival that gave the opportunity for young developers to showcase their skills and innovations.
