By Alieu Ceesay
Renowned philanthropist Modou Toro Darboe delivered a powerful call to action at the Regional Youth Summit in the Central River Region (CRR), urging young Gambians to embrace accountability, human rights, and democratic governance as the cornerstone of a united and progressive nation.
Speaking to a vibrant gathering of youth leaders, Darboe emphasized the critical role of the younger generation in shaping The Gambia’s future, urging them to rise above political and personal divides to build a society rooted in justice and inclusion.
“We meet at a time when the role of young people in national development has never been more important,” Darboe declared, addressing an audience of young activists, community leaders, and students. “Across the world, history teaches us that youths are the drivers of governance and the foundation of every ready society.” His words resonated deeply in a country where over 60% of the population is under the age of 25, making youth engagement a pivotal force in national progress.
Darboe, known for his extensive philanthropic work supporting education, healthcare, and community development across The Gambia, stressed that the path to a prosperous nation lies in prioritizing the collective good over partisan interests. “Our community must place above everything, political and personal divide, for the common good of the people of the country,” he said. “The work of all of us must be anchored on good governance, justice, and respect for human rights. These are the lifeblood of a society where every citizen can live in dignity.”
The summit, held in the heart of CRR, brought together young leaders from across the region to discuss challenges facing their communities, including unemployment, access to education, and gender inequality. Darboe seized the opportunity to highlight the importance of inclusion, calling on youth leaders to ensure that women, persons with disabilities, and minority groups are given equal opportunities to participate in decision-making processes. “A society that excludes any of its members cannot thrive,” he said, drawing applause from the audience. “Inclusion is not just a moral imperative; it is a practical necessity for sustainable development.”
Darboe also underscored the importance of transparency and accountability in leadership, urging young leaders to adopt practical measures such as maintaining clear records and regularly updating memberships to ensure trust and efficiency. “Transparency is the foundation of accountability,” he noted. “If we are to build a Gambia where every citizen feels valued, we must lead by example, keeping our actions open and our intentions clear.”
The philanthropist’s message comes at a critical juncture for The Gambia, a nation still navigating the challenges of its democratic transition following decades of authoritarian rule. With elections on the horizon, Darboe’s remarks were seen by many as a subtle yet deliberate positioning of his vision for the country—one rooted in unity, fairness, and youth empowerment. While he has not formally announced his candidacy, his increasing public engagements and focus on governance have fueled speculation about his presidential ambitions.
“It is my conviction that this conversation will shape more young leaders who are humble enough to listen, wise enough to consult, and bold enough to take decisions that serve the collective good of our people and communities,” Darboe said, his voice carrying a tone of optimism and resolve. He encouraged the youth to see themselves as architects of The Gambia’s future, capable of driving transformative change through principled leadership.
Darboe’s philanthropy has earned him widespread respect across the country. From funding scholarships for underprivileged students to supporting healthcare initiatives in rural areas, his contributions have touched countless lives. At the summit, attendees praised his commitment to grassroots development, with many expressing hope that his vision could inspire a new generation of leaders.
As the event concluded, Darboe left the youth with a final charge: to become champions of accountability, human rights, and democratic governance. “You are not just the future; you are the present,” he said. “The Gambia is counting on you to build a nation where justice prevails, where rights are respected, and where every voice is heard.”
The Regional Youth Summit ended with a renewed sense of purpose among attendees, who pledged to carry forward Darboe’s message of unity and accountability.
