Day three of the Ministry of Youth & Sports nationwide tour took the delegation to Kiang West, where they attended the book and project launch of the “Stories of Hope” initiative in Manduar.
The initiative offers a powerful reflection on the life experience of an immigrant who risked everything through irregular migration in search of a better life, serving as both a cautionary tale and a source of inspiration for young people.
The event brought together key stakeholders, including Hon. Lamin Ceesay, National Assembly Member for Kiang West; Hon. Sainey Jawara of Upper Saloum, Seedy Lamin Bah, Governor of Lower River Region; Landing Sanneh, Chairman of Mansakonko Area Council; religious leaders; and other community representatives. Participants engaged in open dialogue centered on hope, resilience, and the promotion of safer and more viable pathways for young people.
As part of the visit, the delegation also conducted a site inspection of the Manduar Football Field, reaffirming government’s commitment to youth development through sports and the improvement of community infrastructure.
Speaking at the ceremony, Nfamara Dabo, Founding Chairman of Children’s Foundation The Gambia, described the organization as a community-based child and youth development initiative established in August 2010. He noted that in 2012 the foundation partnered with the ASEPBODA Foundation for Children in Sweden, a collaboration that expanded its reach through structured and sustainable programmes focused on health, education, skills development, and youth empowerment.
Launching the project, Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie , commended the leadership and vision of Children’s Foundation The Gambia, emphasizing that government cannot drive development alone.
“When communities take the lead with initiatives like this, government is always ready to partner, support, and strengthen their impact,” the Minister said, assuring the foundation of the Ministry’s continued commitment to working together to uplift children and young people across the country. The team proceeded to Fonkoi Kunda in LRR to visit the IBSA/GSI beneficiary garden.
