Hamat NK Bah, Minister of Local Government and Religious Affairs
By Fatou Sillah
Hamat NK Bah, the Minister of Lands, Local Governments and Religious Affairs, has called on young people in Upper Nuimi, Lower Nuimi, and Jokadu Constituencies to prioritize skills training as a pathway to success both within and outside The Gambia.
Speaking to residents in Bantanding Wollof, Minister Bah emphasized the importance of equipping oneself with practical skills to improve personal prospects and contribute to national development.
“I urge the youth to acquire skills here, so that wherever they go, they will have something valuable to offer, and in turn, contribute to the country’s progress. The government is also committed to increasing opportunities for skill training among young people. However, I encourage the young people of the country to remember that while traveling can be exciting, it’s important to have a skill. If you go to the immigration office seeking a passport without any skills, and the interviewer asks what skills you have, it will be difficult for them to select you. But if you can tell them you are a carpenter, plumber, or engineer, it will be much easier, as these are skills that many countries need.” he said.
Minister Bah also highlighted the tragic consequences of irregular migration, recalling the loss of many Gambian lives at sea. He noted that such tragedies inspired the government to establish migration agreements with Saudi Arabia and Spain.
“There was a time when many young people lost their lives at sea. Whenever news broke of a boat capsizing, President Barrow would refuse to eat, deeply affected by the tragedy. Many Gambians were heartbroken, mourning the loss of our sons, daughters, and grandchildren who perished in pursuit of opportunities abroad. In 2019, President Barrow made an effort to facilitate travel for Gambians to Saudi Arabia, but some accused him of promoting exploitative labor. Despite widespread criticism on the radio, we chose to remain silent. However, as the loss of lives at sea grew, we realized the need to find a solution,” he explained.
He continued, “President Barrow leveraged his office, working with his ambassadors to Spain and his foreign minister, to negotiate opportunities for Gambian youth. His efforts led to discussions with Spain to open its doors and support our young people. Additionally, he sent his ministers and personally returned to Saudi Arabia to secure work opportunities for Gambians. All of this reflects his unwavering love for the country and its youth,” he concluded.
Reiterating the need for skills training, Minister Bah said that other countries prioritize individuals with professional expertise. He commended President Barrow’s efforts in establishing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centers across the country and highlighted ongoing plans to open a university for fisheries and a University of Science and Technology.
“Acquiring skills is essential because people value skilled workers. If you have the right skills, you can demonstrate your abilities wherever you go and secure good employment opportunities. However, traveling without skills often leads to unnecessary hardship. That is why President Barrow, through the Ministry of Higher Education, has established several TVET centers across the country. Additionally, plans are underway to open a university specializing in fisheries, alongside the recently launched University of Science and Technology,” he said.
Minister Bah emphasized President Barrow’s dedication to empowering youth through skill development. He noted that all previously closed TVET centers are now reopened and fully operational to support young people in acquiring valuable skills.
“We need to engage in dialogue to ensure the government provides more support for skill development. Skills have no limitations—some can become carpenters, others camera operators, among other professions. Everyone should have a skill so that when you travel to other countries, you can earn good money to support yourself, your family, and your parents,” he stated.