Lack of program for the youths by the Government is the Cause of the Backway Catastrophic syndrome
By Sheikh Sadibu Jadama Member and Chairman of GFA BAKAU BRANCH
The sun sets on yet another generation of Gambian youths who see their dreams fading with the dwindling light. Unemployment gnaws at their future, their talents, and their potential, choked by a system skewed towards disparity.
We at the “Gambia For All” (GFA) as a strong opposition political party, stand at a crossroads, with the cries of frustration growing louder and the tide of migration rising faster. The time for action is now, and the solution lies in a powerful, Gambian initiative: the “Young Gambian Program”.
The huge discrepancy in resource sharing in the Gambia whispers a painful truth which is that, Gambia’s wealth isn’t reaching its most valuable asset—its youth. Leaders must shift from pronouncements to tangible solutions, bridging the chasm between promise and reality.
I’ve spoken to countless young Gambians in Sweden, their eyes clouded with despair, their hopes hanging by a thread. Many choose perilous journeys, crossing deserts, seas and an ocean and risking their lives, not for adventure but for a glimmer of opportunity abroad.
I urge the Gambia GOVERNMENT to step up as champions, igniting a program with a bold ambition: creating at least employment and skill centres across the country.
This program transcends party politics, instead it will unite the country under a banner of empowerment. Imagine what the wisdom and experience of established Gambian entrepreneur can do, not just as wealthy figures but as mentors and guides. Imagine what entrepreneurial flames their networks and knowledge can ignite in countless young minds.
This isn’t just about wealth creation; it’s about building a future where every young Gambian feels seen, valued, and equipped to contribute. The Gambia government has a responsibility for save guarding the welfare of every Gambian citizen.
The obscene disparity in wealth distribution cannot stand any longer. A government program must be the catalyst for change, ensuring no Gambian is left behind. Let this be the cornerstone of The Gambia government, capturing the hearts and minds of young Gambians and equipping them with the right mind set, skills, and positive attitude to lead the next phase of Gambian development.
An empowered youth isn’t just a workforce; it’s a force for progress, that will reduce unemployment, crime, and the desperation that fuels illegal migration.
The West, facing the brunt of this migration, must also be a key partner to drastically reduce the migrant flow and the countless lives that are lost along the way. By collaborating with The Gambia, we can stem the tide at its source, fostering opportunity and hope within the youths in the country itself.
But let’s not stop there. Imagine if every bank or institution in The Gambia identified one young entrepreneur, investing in them to create jobs for others. Imagine audit and accounting firms volunteering their expertise, nurturing these ventures until they thrive.
Imagine the greater Young population being motivated to consume products made in The Gambia. The Gambian Program shouldn’t be a single entity; it should be a spark, igniting a country -wide movement. Let it encourage every Gambian to uplift their neighbours and build a collective ladder of prosperity.
The Gambian people must mandate action, requiring their leaders to create programs aligned with the GFA (GAMBIAFOR ALL PARTY) vision and, demanding measurable yearly reports on their progress. This isn’t charity; it’s an investment in a shared future.
The time for lamentation is over. The future of Gambian beckons; its vibrancy is dependent on the well-being of its youth. Let us join hands, leaders and citizens alike, to make the Gambian Youth Program a reality. Let us unleash the untapped potential of Gambian youth and, together, build a future where every Gambian thrives.
This is not just a program; it’s a call to action. a call for audacity, unity, and a shared belief in the boundless potential of young Gambians. Let the fire ignite, let hope rise, and let us, together, build the Gambia we all dream of.
LONG LIVE The GFA AND OUR CONDOLENCES GO TO THOSE WHO RECENTLY LOST THEIR LOVED ONES THROUH THE INFAMOUS “BACK WAY” JOURNEY TO EUROPE
