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The 11th batch of The Gambia Songhai Initiative-GSI has successfully completed their training, marking another milestone in youth and women empowerment through agribusiness The graduation ceremony also welcomed the 12th batch, ready to embark on their journey in agribusiness. Honourable Minister Bakary Y. Badjie reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investing in agriculture and supporting youth-led initiatives. Though the GSI project officially ended in 2021, the government continues to fully support 46 beneficiaries, ensuring their accommodation and feeding. UNDP The Gambia Resident Representative Mandisa Mashologu emphasized the importance of turning agriculture into a sustainable business, highlighting the FAO Agri-Accelerator Programme as a key step in this transformation.  46 graduates, including 5 Persons with Disabilities  Training in smart integrated farming: agroforestry, poultry, beekeeping, aquaculture & more  Government & UNDP pledge continued support for youth agribusiness initiatives  Call for graduates to apply their skills, create employment, and drive sustainable development. North Bank Regional Governor, Lamin Saidykhan urged graduates to use their knowledge to foster self-sufficiency, while Project Coordinator Mbye Saine commended the resilience of trainees who successfully completed the intensive 12-month programme.

The Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie, has officially inaugurated the Farafenni Youth Centre, marking a significant step in youth empowerment and rural development. Speaking at the event, Minister Badjie emphasized the government’s commitment to creating opportunities for young people, particularly in rural areas. He highlighted the centre as a hub for innovation, sports, and skills development, ensuring a brighter future for youth in the North Bank Region. The project, funded by the European Union in The Gambia Trust Fund through the International Trade Centre (ITC) and IMVF, is a testament to strong partnerships in youth development. The Minister called for sustained collaboration to expand such initiatives nationwide. Minister Badjie urged the local community and stakeholders to maintain the facility, ensuring its long-term benefits for generations to come. He also extended gratitude to the National Youth Council – The Gambia for their efforts in bringing the project to completion. With this, the Farafenni Youth Centre is officially open— a space where young people can gather, learn, and build a better future said Hon Badjie.

Strengthening partnerships for a doping-free Africa. The AU, UNESCO, WADA, and key stakeholders unite to promote healthy sports practices.

The UNESCO fund, having supported over 250 projects globally and more than 70 in Africa, remains a vital resource for enhancing anti-doping education and strengthening governance frameworks. Chairperson COP9 Bureau International Convention against Doping in Sports.

The Interregional African Ministerial Meeting on Anti-Doping in Sports kicks off in Banjul, reinforcing the strong commitment of the Gambian government to promote ethical standards in sports, both in terms of practice, management, and overall governance in The Gambia.

“The strategies and actions agreed upon will lay the foundation for strengthened sports governance. These steps will serve as a crucial entry point to address the challenges young people face across the continent, including drug use and irregular migration. By promoting collective effort and enhancing inter-regional cooperation, we aim to leave a lasting positive impact on African sports.” Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie