By Alieu Ceesay
Youth-led organizations and community youth leaders in the Lower River Region (LRR) have called on the Mansakonko Area Council to allocate 5% of the 60% revenue returned to communities for youth-focused initiatives. The demand was made during a day-long convergence held at the regional governor’s office in Mansakonko, bringing together youth representatives, council officials, and other stakeholders to discuss strategies for empowering the region’s youth.
The Mansakonko Area Council, mandated to return 60% of its collected revenue to communities at the end of each year, is now under pressure to dedicate a portion of this fund specifically to youth affairs. The youth leaders argue that a 5% allocation could transform opportunities for young people in LRR by addressing critical issues such as unemployment, irregular migration, education, environmental conservation, and sports development.
Sulayman Darboe, a youth representative from Kiang, emphasized the potential impact of the proposed allocation. “If this 5% is given to youths and used judiciously, it can minimize irregular migration and boost youth participation in sports, particularly football,” Darboe told attendees. He highlighted that the funds could be invested in improving football pitches across the region, creating employment opportunities, and strengthening educational programs for young people. “This is an investment in our future,” he added.
Lehbeh Kah from Jara Soma focused on environmental sustainability, advocating for the use of the 5% allocation to combat climate change through tree planting initiatives. “This fund should be given to youths to engage in tree planting—not just to plant but to ensure the trees grow,” Kah stated. She stressed that such efforts would empower young people to take an active role in environmental conservation while fostering a sense of responsibility and community ownership.
Muhammed K. Fatty, another youth leader, proposed that the funds be directed toward improving security and education in the region. He acknowledged the council’s existing support for youth initiatives, citing scholarships and their role in the recently concluded National Conference for Youths (NACOF). “The council has helped youths in various ways, but a dedicated 5% would allow us to do more, especially in education and community safety,” Fatty said.
Almamo A.K. Ceesay, Vice Chairperson of the Mansakonko Area Council, responded positively to the proposal but noted the challenges the council faces. “The 5% they are demanding is doable, and in many ways, we already support youth activities,” Ceesay said. He pointed out that the council contributes to various youth programs but emphasized the need for proper processes to ensure transparency and accountability in fund allocation. The council’s primary mandates include tax collection, community cleaning, and job creation, which Ceesay said align with the youths’ demands for employment and development opportunities.
The convergence, sponsored by ActionAid International The Gambia, provided a platform for youth leaders and stakeholders to brainstorm actionable ways to secure the 5% revenue allocation. The event underscored the importance of collaboration between the council and youth organizations to address pressing regional challenges.
The call for a dedicated youth fund comes at a critical time, as LRR grapples with high youth unemployment and the risks of irregular migration. By investing in sports, education, security, and environmental initiatives, the youth leaders believe the 5% allocation could unlock significant opportunities for young people while fostering sustainable development in the region. As discussions continue, the Mansakonko Area Council faces growing pressure to formalize this commitment and ensure that the voices of LRR’s youth are heard and acted upon.
The post LRR Youths Push for 5% of Council Revenue to Boost Youth Development appeared first on The Alkamba Times.
