By Makutu Manneh
Vice President Mohammed B.S. Jallow has reaffirmed The Gambia’s commitment to advancing African-led solutions to the continent’s peace and security challenges. He delivered the remarks while addressing the plenary sessions of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in Yokohama, Japan.
In his keynote address, Vice President Jallow emphasized the critical link between peace, stability, and sustainable development, stressing that the continent’s progress depends on creating durable conditions for security and growth.
He highlighted The Gambia’s active role in peacekeeping missions, its leadership within the African Union Peace and Security Council, and its recent hosting of the Sahel Governance Forum as examples of the country’s contribution to regional stability.“The peace and stability of Africa are inextricably linked to global peace and stability. Let us co-create innovative solutions for a future where peace is not an aspiration, but a lived reality for all.” VP Jallow stated.
The Vice President further emphasized the importance of empowering women and youth, addressing climate change, and promoting good governance and inclusive development as essential pillars for achieving lasting peace across Africa.
On the sidelines of the conference, VP Jallow held discussions with Rev. Ock Soo Park, founder of the International Youth Fellowship (IYF). The talks centered on fostering cooperation in character-based education to empower Gambian youth and support national development.
“Both sides agreed on the need for character-based education to empower Gambian youth and contribute to national development, and pledged to work together on the introduction and expansion of Mind Education,” the Office of the Vice President noted.
According to the Office of the Vice President, Rev. Park also extended an official invitation to Vice President Jallow to attend the 2026 IYF World Camp in Korea.