By Momodou Gagigo
About 20 young people from Niamina East District are taking part in a two-day intensive training program to strengthen their understanding of peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and sustainable livelihoods. Led by Nfamara Ceesay, National Youth Parliamentarian for Niamina East, the initiative carries the theme “Equipping Young People with Practical Skills for Peaceful Coexistence and Sustainable Livelihoods.”
The program aims to give participants practical knowledge that will help them better understand the roots of conflict, promote peaceful coexistence in their communities, and identify pathways toward economic self-reliance. In addition to sessions on peace and conflict resolution, the young people will receive hands-on instruction in tie-and-dye production, a skill organizers believe can open doors to income-generating opportunities and greater financial independence.
The Alternative Dispute Resolution Secretariat (ADRS) fully funds the training. The secretariat’s support is part of its wider national effort to strengthen conflict prevention mechanisms, foster social cohesion, and encourage peaceful coexistence among communities across the country. By combining peace education with practical livelihood skills, the program seeks to address both the social and economic challenges that often confront young people at the community level.
Speaking about the initiative’s importance, Nfamara Ceesay stressed that empowering youth with both knowledge and practical skills is essential for them to become positive agents of change. “I wish to deliver beyond expectations because that’s what you voted me in for,” Ceesay said. He urged participants to take the training seriously. “I urge you all to take whatever is being shared or gained here seriously so it can benefit you and the families you represent,” he added.
Young people continue to play a critical role in promoting peace and development, particularly within local communities. Organizers expect the training to give participants the confidence and tools needed to recognize potential sources of conflict early, encourage constructive dialogue and contribute meaningfully to peaceful solutions. The sessions will include interactive discussions, group activities and practical exercises focused on leadership, tolerance and community engagement.
One participant, Nfamara Gassama, expressed optimism about the training’s impact on his personal development and his ability to support others. “This training intends to equip me with knowledge on how to go about the skill of tie-and-dye,” Gassama said. “The knowledge I gain here is going to be shared with my family and community.”
The inclusion of tie-and-dye production underscores the program’s dual focus on peacebuilding and economic empowerment. By learning a marketable craft, participants can explore entrepreneurship and income generation, thereby helping to ease some of the financial pressures that many young people face. Another participant, Maimuna Ceesay, highlighted the skill’s economic potential. “The tie-and-dye is going to help me combat financial challenges,” she stated.
Over the two days, the young people from Niamina East will engage in a mix of theoretical learning and practical application. Facilitators plan to create an environment that encourages open exchange of ideas and the sharing of community experiences. The goal is not only to transfer knowledge but also to build participants’ confidence so they can return home and positively influence their peers.
Organizers hope beneficiaries will apply the lessons learned to strengthen a culture of dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence throughout Niamina East. By linking conflict-resolution skills with tangible livelihood opportunities, the training aims to equip a new generation of community leaders who can contribute to both social harmony and economic progress in their district.
