The National Youth Parliament-The Gambia (NYP), established in 2002 as a nonpartisan, non-profit youth organization, embarked on a transformative Reformation Agenda to meet global standards of parliamentary operation and enhance youth participation in governance for improved efficiency in youth leadership and policy advocacy. As part of this agenda, in August, 2022, the NYP convened its first National Youth Sittings at the National Assembly Chambers and Regional Sittings across various regions. These sessions provided a platform for extensive discussions, policy diagnoses, and the development of position papers. The objective was to solidify engagement with policymakers while extracting insights from grassroots realities.
This year, the 9th Youth Parliament held its First Ordinary Session in the 2023 Legislative Year, from October 30 to November 1, at the National Assembly chambers. The event hosted distinguished guests, encompassing dignitaries, the UNFPA-The Gambia representatives, representatives of the Ministry of Youths and Sports, Representative of the Speaker of the National Assembly, National Assembly Members (NAMs), Implementing Partners, CSO representatives, media partners, and youth participants nationwide.
In the opening statement, the Speaker of the National Youth Parliament, Honorable Omar Cham, emphasized restructuring efforts that resulted in more vibrant representation, addressing crucial issues affecting Gambian youth, women, and children. The session aimed to align NYP’s goals with the National Development Plan (NDP), Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the African Youth Charter. Focus areas included youth unemployment, gender inequality, migration, SGBV, youth, peace, and security and other critical youth issues. Young parliamentarians, having consulted their constituencies, were ready to guide discussions.
Gratitude were extended to the Ministry of Youths and Sports, the National Youth Council, and other partners for their invaluable support in this transformative journey. The opening ceremony set the stage for a deliberative and impactful legislative year for the NYP, emphasizing its commitment to addressing critical issues affecting the youth and contributing towards national development.