By Lamarana S Jallow
On the occasion of the International Youth Day 2024, the Minister of Youth and Sports, Bakary Y Badjie paid tribute to the youth of the country for driving sustainable development through digital innovation.
The Gambia joined the rest of the world on August 12th to commemorate the Youth Day, aimed to recognise the invaluable contributions of young people.
This year’s theme, ‘From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development’ highlights how young Gambians are leveraging technology to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Minister noted that despite its small size, The Gambia is strategically positioned to become a leading tech hub in Africa, thanks to initiatives like the National Digital Economy Master Plan 2023. “This plan focuses on creating an inclusive digital landscape by improving infrastructure, fostering innovation, and enhancing digital skills”.
Minister Badjie also highlighted the ongoing efforts to provide ICT training in rural areas, with new facilities in Jarra Soma, Bansang, and other locations. These initiatives aim to equip young people with the skills needed for the rapidly evolving job market. The UNDP Accelerator Lab’s support for youth entrepreneurs, including the “My Lumo” e-commerce platform, was also acknowledged as a key driver of digital economic growth.
As The Gambia continues to invest in its digital future, the Minister assured that the government remains committed to providing the necessary resources and policies to harness the potential of the digital economy. He called for continued collaboration to ensure that the nation’s youth can contribute to economic growth, peace, and prosperity.
