The flag which had toured all the regions of the country before been finally handed over to the vice president, is the official representation of the young people of this county, bearing the logo of NAYCONF, date and venue of the 2008 event.

Sheriff Gomez, secretary of state for Youths and Sports, flanked by young people, handed over the flag to Vice President Njie-Saidy. Both vice president and SoS used the moment to renewed their commitment to empowering the young people of this country.

2008 NAYCONF conference opens

Hon. Sheriff Gomez, secretary of state for Youths and Sports, yesterday, presided over the opening ceremony of the 2008 NAYCONF at the conference room of the North Bank Region Youth Centre in Farafenni.

In his opening statement, SoS Gomez said that in a bid to become responsive, his department of state is ready to give their support in all forms; financial, energy and resources, in the empowerment of the young people. He cited the ratification of the African Youth Charter as a means of empowering young people.

He gave assurances of his office's strong commitment to addressing the problems of the young people. According to him, President Jammeh is working tirelessly in response to all the needs of the young people. He urged the young people to redouble their efforts to rise up the flag of the young of this country by showing maximum seriousness during the event. He also challenged them to come out with resolutions that will make a greater impact on their lives.

For her part, Limya Eltayed, the deputy representative of the UN system in The Gambia, said the UNDP has huge interest in the sustainable development of young people. She noted that no development can be achieved without the participation of young people, noting that investing in their activities is not a mistake. She further dilated on the MDGs which she said is a commitment from the UN member states.

The first goal of the MDG, according to her, is poverty reduction and the second is the investment declaration. She noted that the UN is supporting 22 youths in this country who are engaged in businesses which they will continue to do. She then urged young people to participate fully in the development process of their country in order to reduce poverty.

Alhagie Kebbeh, chairman of the National Youth Council (NYC), said the conference aspect of NAYCONF 2008 is very significant, citing the fact that it will address the problems of young people. He mentioned that things that would be discussed during the event such as youth and migration are very important in youth development. He urged the young people to work together towards harnessing their potentials and turn them into sustainable development.

Welcoming the delegates, Modou Marr, the deputy governor of North Bank Region, expressed delight in receiving the delegates in his region. He assured the gathering that their security throughout the event is well guaranteed. He urged young people to participate fully in the conference with dignified manner as it provides them the opportunity to discuss thematic issues that confront their livelihood.

According to him, what ever is discussed at the gathering is expected to be reported back to the various regions. Other speakers included Mambanyick Njie, permanent secretary, Youths and Sports; Poulo Joof, youth chairperson of the North Bank Region; and Pa Malick Ceesay, executive secretary of the National Youth Council, chaired the ceremony.