Adherence to United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250:Gambia Launches National Action Plan on Youth, Peace, and Security

In accordance with the  United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250, which calls for member states to increase youth participation in decision-making, particularly in matters of peace and security.
The Gambia has launched its National Action Plan on Youth, Peace, and Security.
The National Action Plan aims to recognize young people as key partners in peacebuilding and conflict prevention, rather than solely as victims or perpetrators of violence.
The launch, presided over by Minister of Youth and Sports, Bakary Y. Badjie, positions The Gambia as the sixth country globally to develop such a plan.
He spoke at length on the government’s ongoing efforts since 2017 to enhance democratic processes and create space for youth participation, including the training of over 100 officials on Youth, Peace, and Security, and engaging more than 2,000 young people in the process.
The UNDP Resident Representative in The Gambia, Mandisa Mashologu, emphasized the importance of increasing youth involvement in the country’s peacebuilding efforts, particularly given that 77% of the population is between the ages of 15 and 35.
Ms. Ndey Rose Sarr, UNFPA Resident Representative, noted that the launch reflects a shift in the perception of youth, acknowledging them as active contributors to peace and security rather than passive beneficiaries.
The development of the plan followed consultations with over 2,000 young Gambians throughout 2023 and 2024. UN Resident Coordinator Karl-Frederick Paul highlighted the significant role young people have played in the country’s transition to democracy and their contributions to positive change.
German Ambassador Klaus Botzet recognized the National Youth Council’s role in advancing the youth peace and security agenda, particularly its efforts in raising awareness and fostering partnerships to implement the National Action Plan.