By Alieu Ceesay
The National Youth Parliament (NYP) of The Gambia concluded a three-day capacity-building training for its 10th cohort, equipping newly elected youth parliamentarians with essential skills in parliamentary procedures, governance, and advocacy. Supported by the UNFPA through the Network Against Gender-Based Violence (NGBV) under the GPI 2.0 Project, the training aimed to strengthen the parliamentarians’ ability to conduct effective and orderly sittings while addressing critical national issues.
The intensive sessions, held over three days, covered parliamentary proceedings, the NYP Standing Orders, and thematic areas such as gender equality, climate diplomacy, and peacebuilding. Facilitated by Mr. Toney F. Mendy, Senior Table Clerk at the National Assembly, the training provided practical insights into managing parliamentary business in alignment with democratic principles. Mendy emphasized the importance of discipline and knowledge in ensuring impactful contributions to national decision-making.
Veteran politician Hon. Halifa Sallah delivered a compelling presentation on good governance, urging participants to prioritize education as “the most important tool of empowerment.” He stressed the principles of consent, will, sovereignty, authority, and power as foundational to effective governance. Sallah’s words resonated with the young parliamentarians, who were encouraged to seek knowledge to enhance their leadership.
Mr. Lamin Camara, Deputy Representative of UNFPA The Gambia, led a session on leadership, communication, and public speaking. He emphasized the importance of clarity, confidence, and conviction in effective parliamentary debates, urging young people to conduct in-depth research to enhance their contributions. “Youth engagement must move beyond rhetoric; it must be institutionalized, resourced, and respected,” said Ousainou Sarr of UNICEF The Gambia, reinforcing the need for meaningful youth involvement.
Gender equality, a key focus of the training, was addressed by Mr. Modou Lamin Davies, a renowned expert on gender laws. Davies guided participants through national and international frameworks on women’s and children’s rights, emphasizing the role of parliamentarians in advocating for inclusive policies. “Understanding gender laws is not just about knowing the statutes; it’s about transforming societies through justice and inclusion,” he stated, inspiring the youth to champion equitable policies.
Climate diplomacy and social development were explored in a session led by Mr. Babucarr Nyang, who underscored the critical role of young parliamentarians in driving sustainable policies. The session empowered participants to advocate for climate-conscious development within their constituencies, broadening their understanding of global climate governance.
The training concluded with a session on peacebuilding and security, led by Mr. Bakary Dena Sonko, Coordinator of Peace Hub The Gambia. Sonko emphasized the crucial role of youth in promoting dialogue and fostering inclusive communities. He reminded participants that peace and security are shared responsibilities, beginning with their actions and voices.
This comprehensive training has equipped the 10th NYP cohort with the tools to navigate parliamentary processes and advocate for critical issues, such as gender equality, climate action, and peacebuilding. As these young leaders prepare to contribute to national development, their enhanced skills and knowledge promise to make a lasting impact on The Gambia’s democratic landscape.
