By: Kebba AF Touray
Mr. Saba Susso, the Board Chairman of the Activista, has advised young people of The Gambia to stay away from violence and not to allow anyone to use them as tools for violence.
Mr. Susso made the advice on Tuesday 26th October 2021, while presiding over the opening ceremony of the 6th edition of the Activista National Youth Convergence, currently underway in Yarambamba.
“Young people of the country should refuse to be used as tools for violence, and at the same time continue to work by the principles of democracy and human rights, freedom of speech and seize every opportunity to make The Gambia a great nation,” he said.
The youth convergence held under the theme: “Youth For Transformative Change and Development”, seeks to bring young people across the country to discuss, highlight and identify issues affecting them, with the objective of proffering remedies to those issues.
“Activista The Gambia is a youth led civil society organization that works to promote meaningful participation among young men and women in decision making processes at all levels. It is also a network that promotes social justice, eradication of poverty, [and] inequality in Gambian society,” he added.
He said they are certain that the active engagement of young people is central in the fight against poverty, youth unemployment, suppression and all forms of injustices.
Susso said the platform has proven to be one that yields and amplifies the voice of young people and serves as an opportunity to build the community of young people.
Alhagie S Nyang, National Coordinator for Activista, said the event came at the right moment as the country is gearing up for presidential polls in December. He said the active and full participation of young people during the polls is crucial in ensuring a successful and peaceful election.
“The convergence avails the young people with the opportunity and platform to come together, learn on how to share experience on how to propel youth activities in the country,” he said.
Mrs. Tabou Sarr Njie, on behalf of the Executive Director of Actionaid The Gambia, said the convergence demonstrated the readiness of young people to take the mantel into their hands.
She said this corresponds to the thematic vision of ActionAid to work through inclusion to ensure that the marginalized and/or vulnerable groups are empowered.
