By Aja Beyai
The West Coast Region Youth Committee launched the 2nd edition of its summer camp on Saturday at Gunjur Senior Secondary School, attracting nearly 300 young participants from various districts. The opening ceremony set the tone for an event themed “Addressing Social Issues through Entrepreneurship for Economic Growth among Youths,” aimed at equipping the region’s youth with essential skills to drive community development and national progress.
Outgoing Chairperson Lamin Sanneh opened the ceremony with heartfelt gratitude to the West Coast Region community for their unwavering support. He emphasized his dedication to serving humanity, particularly by empowering the nation’s youth. “Our young people are the backbone of our future,” Sanneh said, urging them to engage in meaningful dialogue, practice diplomacy, and recognize their unique potential. He stressed the importance of fostering peace and stability, encouraging attendees to uphold these values in their communities and beyond.
Momodou Turo Darboe, a prominent philanthropist and CEO of Vision Development Foundation, echoed Sanneh’s sentiments at the Regional Youth Convergence, highlighting the pivotal role of youth in national development. Darboe advocated for democratic governance rooted in accountability, transparency, and respect for human rights. He outlined three core principles for the youth to embrace: transparency through clear, accessible records; accountability by accepting responsibility and welcoming feedback; and inclusion to ensure equal opportunities for all, including women, persons with disabilities, and minority groups. “Unity, good governance, and justice are the foundations of a prosperous nation,” Darboe declared, urging the youth to champion innovation, peace, and justice.
The summer camp’s program was designed to address pressing social issues while fostering entrepreneurial skills. Participants engaged in sessions on Leadership and Gender, promoting gender equality and leadership development, alongside training in videography, photography, and digital skills to spark creative and business ventures. Other key areas included Migration, Entrepreneurship, Sports Administration, and Peace and Conflict Resolution, all aimed at promoting community stability and economic growth.
The camp’s diverse activities encouraged hands-on learning and critical thinking. Participants explored ways to tackle social challenges through entrepreneurial initiatives, with a focus on creating sustainable solutions. The sessions also emphasized peacebuilding and conflict resolution, equipping attendees with tools to foster harmony in their communities.
The event culminated in a powerful call to action, with organizers rallying the youth around the slogan “One Gambia, One People, One Nation.” They were urged to become active champions of accountability, human rights, and democratic governance, embodying the values of unity and active citizenship.
The 2nd edition of the summer camp marked a significant step in empowering the region’s youth to take charge of their future. By blending practical skills with a strong emphasis on social responsibility, the West Coast Region Youth Committee has set a precedent for youth-driven development. As the camp continues, its impact is expected to resonate across the region, inspiring a new generation of leaders committed to building a stronger, more inclusive Gambia.
