By Ramatoulie Jawo
The National Youth Council of Gambia and its partners concluded the third edition of the Youth Connekt Gambia summit on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, at a hotel in Senegambia.
The three-day event, funded by the Gambian government, the UNDP, and other partners, brought together over 300 young people from across the country, as well as government officials and UN agencies. The theme of the summit was “Moment for Youth; Action for More Socioeconomic Development.”
Basiru Jaye, the Focal person of the Youth Connekt Gambia highlighted the importance of the convergence adding that the summit has been showcasing the power of collaboration, innovation, and the indomitable spirit of the youth.
“It has been a platform for us to discuss critical issues, share ideas, and forge connections that will undoubtedly lead to meaningful change in our society,” he said.
Mr.Jaye urged his fellow youth to carry forward the knowledge and inspiration and the shared sense of purpose they have gained from the summit.
“Together, we can unlock the full potential of our young generation and lead our country to new heights of prosperity and progress as the Gambia anticipates to host the youth Connekt Sahel summit in 2024 wherein all the 10 Sahelian government young entrepreneurs and young leaders will converge to address the matters in the Sahel. We urge all the partners both public and private sector to come forward to make this historic event a success,” he urged.
Honorable Abdoulie Ceesay, the National Assembly Member representing Old Yundum Constituency, conveyed a message on behalf of Deputy Speaker Hon. Seedy SK. Njie. He offered encouragement to the delegates, urging them to maintain their connections and collaborate with like-minded individuals in order to make the most of the resources at their disposal.
“The Moment for the youth is now let us seize it with unwavering determination unity and a relentless pursuit of socioeconomic development together we can build a prosperous future where every young person has equal opportunities to thrive,” he encouraged the youth.
Hon. Ceesay issued a challenge to the Youth Connekt executive and its members, urging them to put the summit’s resolutions into action for the betterment of the youth.
He also reaffirmed their ongoing commitment to supporting and collaborating with the youth as their representatives.
Additional speakers at the event featured Banjul’s Mayor, Rohey Malick Lowe, and Madam Mandessa, the UNDP Country Representative. Both expressed gratitude to the National Youth Council for hosting the Youth Connekt Gambia summit and encouraged the youth to maintain their momentum for reshaping the narrative.
At the closing ceremony of Youth Connekt Gambia 3.0, aspiring entrepreneurs participated in a pitch competition, resulting in three dynamic young entrepreneurs receiving cash prizes.