President Barrow has urged Gambian youths to engage in dialogue and networking to enable them to acquire the necessary skills as future leaders of the nation. The President spoke at the State House in Banjul on Friday, 9th December 2022, when he received the National Organising Committee for the forthcoming National Youth Conference and Festival (NAYCONF), scheduled to take place from 15th – 23rd December 2022. 

The organising committee led by the Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr Bakary Badjie, was at the Presidency to brief him on the progress of the preparations for the event.

The President expressed satisfaction with the preparation, saying he is convinced and confident that it will be a successful event. He noted that the progress of any nation lies in the power of its youths while reassuring them of his government’s continued commitment to the welfare of youths. "The future is the young people; the next President will be a young person; one's background does not determine success; I urge the youths to listen, be patient and tolerant, and make a difference in our society’’. 

On his part, Honourable Minister Badjie said it was important for the organising committee to update the President on the Level of Preparation as he is the number one advocate for youth development. On behalf of the delegation, he thanked the President for ensuring that youth welfare is a top priority for his administration. 

The theme for this year’s event is ‘‘the role of young people in the maintenance of peace and security for the socio-economic development of the country’’. The event, which is 75% funded by the Government of The Gambia, is expected to bring together 2000 youths to engage in sports and artistic talent displays.