In a groundbreaking stride toward inclusive governance, ActionAid International, The Gambia, has concluded a transformative 5-day Youth Inclusion Caravan spanning the four regions of The Gambia.
Powered by the Empowering Marginalized Young People for Inclusion in Civic Space and Local Infrastructure for Peace project, funded by the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund, the campaign delivered a powerful message to local leaders: inclusive peacebuilding requires the voices of young people, women’s leadership, and representation for people with disabilities.
The results were nothing short of historic. All 30 District Chiefs engaged during the caravan committed to including youth in their District Tribunals, with some districts already integrating youth representatives. To ensure that this inclusion is not symbolic but impactful, ActionAid will support these representatives with a one-year allowance to help them fulfil their roles effectively.
“My district is among the best. We have membership for PWDs and women,” proudly stated Chief Mustapha Dibba of Farafenni, Upper Badibou District. His remarks underscore a growing cultural shift toward equity and participation.
A Nationwide Call for Youth Empowerment
The caravan, which traversed the Lower River, Upper River, and Central River Regions, sparked passionate dialogue across communities. At each stop, the message was clear: youth must not only be heard — they must be empowered to lead.
“Only knowledge drives the development of the world. If young people and women lack the knowledge to succeed the elders, the world is doomed,” warned Chief Alagie Jagne, Central Badibou District, emphasising education as the cornerstone of generational progress.
From village gatherings to tribunal discussions, leaders and citizens echoed this sentiment, weaving traditional wisdom with modern urgency.
The Wisdom of Elders, the Passion of Youth
Throughout the caravan, elders and local leaders voiced a deep sense of responsibility toward mentoring the next generation.
“When young people rise up to seek elective positions, let’s support them,” said tribunal member Sally Sanneh, Kinteh Kunda, Lower Badibou District.
“It is the responsibility of every old person to teach their young generation,” added Lang Janteh Singhateh, also of Kinteh Kunda, Lower Badibou District.
“An idle youth without guidance is directionless,” stressed Mba Jon Saba Jawara, member of the Rural Women’s Assembly, North Bank Region.
These reflections reveal a powerful truth: peacebuilding starts with purposeful intergenerational mentorship.
Inclusion as a Tool for Peace
In communities like Kuntaya and Lower Badibou, key issues such as gender disparities, leadership gaps, and the marginalisation of persons with disabilities were openly discussed. Lady Councillors emphasised the need for unity among women, especially during electoral seasons:
“Women supporting each other, especially during elections, is essential for improving female representation,” said Kumba Sanyang, President Rural Women’s Assembly.
The caravan also shed light on the consequences of exclusion. Saikou Bah of ActionAid noted that a lack of guidance leaves youth vulnerable to issues like teenage pregnancy and disengagement from civic life. Yet amidst these challenges, hope shone brightly.
“Involving youth closely in leadership equips them with the skills and experience needed to take on future responsibilities effectively,” affirmed Alhagie Sarge, member district tribunal, Jokadu District, NBR.
A Cultural Shift, Village by Village
In the Niani District, home to 87 villages, the push for wider community representation is more than necessary; it’s urgent. Chiefly voices emphasized that tradition and youth inclusion are not at odds, but complementary.
“Youth participation in decision-making strengthens traditions rather than undermining them,” said Saikou Bah, AAITG and Caravan team lead.
The caravan’s dialogues proved that meaningful inclusion is not just possible, it’s already beginning to take root.
A Movement Rooted in Unity
This is more than a project. It is a movement toward a Gambia where peace is participatory, justice is inclusive, and leadership is a shared responsibility. Supported by the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund, this initiative is planting the seeds of systemic change.
“Let’s teach young people respect and skills for development,” urged Lang Janteh Singhateh, Badge Messenger, Kinteh Kunda.
“If we don’t engage the youth positively, something else will engage them negatively,” cautioned Seedy Jagne, Njaba Kunda, Central Badibou, District.
And with heartfelt clarity, he added: “Don’t gain the world and lose your soul. Wisdom is better than silver or gold.”
As the caravan ends, its message echoes across the country:
Gambia is rising, not just with hopes, but with action. Together, we are building an inclusive, just, and peaceful nation where every voice counts.
