By Landing Ceesay
The Mayor of the City of Banjul, Rohey Malick Lowe, has urged Participants of the National Youth Conference and Festival (NAYCONF) to draft attainable resolutions for youth.
“There will be resolutions just like any other year, we have prepared for this, but due to the covid pandemic, we could not hold the conference. This time we have defied all odds, we are having it here. Therefore, you must make sure that you come out with great and attainable resolutions that will guide all the relevant stakeholders in the affairs of the youth,” Mayor Lowe told the participants.
Mayor Lowe made these remarks at the official opening ceremony of the NAYCONF Conference in Banjul.
While talking on the theme for this year’s NAYCONF; “The Role of Young People in the Maintenance of Peace and Security for Socio-Economic Development of the Country, progress, challenges, and opportunities”.
The Mayor said the theme is undoubtedly fitting in their context today. While stating that peace is the bedrock of any development.
Mayor Lowe said they need to look at the progress, challenges, and opportunities during the conference and expressed delight at introducing the new thematic areas in this year’s NAYCONF which includes Cultural Activities.
“The fact that culture is part of the activities is a clear manifestation that the youth value our culture. A nation without culture is doomed. I know that there is a committee strictly for Gender and also a thematic area for women’s issues. This amongst other areas is of great interest to me as a person who seeks to empower women and girls,” she said.
The Mayor further asked the participants to feel at home in the country’s capital, Banjul. She congratulated the Organizing committee for their “tireless efforts in making the event successful.
“I know seven Regions are competing, but just understand one thing, no trophy is leaving Banjul, Denton Bridge will be locked, and the ferries will not ferry with any trophies to the other parts. We are ready to reclaim the mantle, Our home, and our trophies,” she joked.
The official opening of the Conference of NAYCONF took place on Saturday, at St. Joseph Senior Secondary School in Banjul.