By Lamin Kujabi
African Union Ambassador for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Bankole Adeoye, has expressed optimism that The Gambia will continue to provide leadership support to the work of peace and Security Council as to mobilise and advocate for a stronger support to all children that are affected by armed conflict.
He noted that it is important that the role of The Gambia as a peaceful country and leading to prosperity will continue to be a shining example for the African Union.
Mr Adeoye made these remarks during a visit last week by a delegation of African Union Ambassadors for Political Affairs, Peace and Security to His Excellency President Adama Barrow at State House in Banjul. They were in Banjul for the high-level ministerial retreat for child protection.
Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, who led the delegation, told the press that they met the President to update him on the landmark outcome of the high level ministerial concession on child protection.
“The peace and security of the African Union under the leadership of The Gambian Ambassador, Jainaba, has been very pivotal in promoting the protection of children, welfare and their rights during conflict”.
He further explained that Peace and Security Council of the AU is a strategic decision making body that discusses and examines all issues relating to peace and security, and that their goal is to silence the gun.
‘‘We would also be able to protect children who are innocently affected by various types of conflict. The goal is for The Gambia to continue to play that leadership role for us in the AU, ECOWAS and in all AU’s engagement for peace, prosperity, progress and the Africa we want,’’ he stated.
Mr. Bankole said that Agenda 2063 can be only built when children are protected, their rights guaranteed and their welfare safeguarded.