By Ramatoulie Jawo
At the close of their first ordinary session of the 2024 legislative year on Wednesday, members of the National Youth Parliament passed a motion urging the Gambia government to take proactive measures to preserve and protect the environment.
During the two-day session, the National Youth Parliament members discussed and adopted several motions focused on improving the lives of Gambian youth, with high hopes that the government will implement these recommendations to drive positive change across the nation.
The motion on environmental preservation was introduced by the youth representative from Lower Badibou Constituency, Hon. Saihou Jallow, emphasizing the urgent need for the government to take action in addressing environmental challenges.
“Our planet, our only home, is at a crossroads every day. We witness the consequences of environmental neglect, extreme weather patterns, rising sea levels, loss of biodiversity and the gradual degradation of our natural resources. These are no longer distant issues; they affect our communities, our livelihood and our health. This is a shared responsibility, but the government is busy leading the way,” he said.
Hon. Jallow highlighted the importance of enforcing environmental laws with consistency and rigor, noting that while existing regulations exist on paper, they lack the enforcement needed to drive real impact.
“We must ensure that industries are held accountable for pollution, deforestation and unsustainable practices. Strict and consistent enforcement sends a clear message that protecting our environment is not optional. And second, we need to prioritize renewable energy. The time has come to shift from fossil fuels to sustainable renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro. This transition will not only reduce our carbon footprint but will also create jobs, boost our economy and position our nation as a leader in clean energy innovation,” he said.
Jallow noted that the government has already taken steps to combat plastic pollution, address climate change, and enhance resilience against environmental risks. Coastal communities have also undertaken mangrove restoration and marine protection projects to counter coastal erosion and preserve local fisheries.
“The Gambia’s collaborative approach involves multiple international partners, including UNDP and Common Seas, which contribute technical and financial support.”
Jallow further called for the government to raise public awareness about sustainable practices, as education is essential to driving lasting change.
“We must encourage sustainable practices, from waste reduction to energy conservation. When each individual understands their role in environmental protection, we create a movement that is unstoppable. Let us seize this moment to lead with courage, conviction and care. Together through proactive government leadership we can preserve and protect our environment ensuring a sustainable, healthier and more prosperous future for all,” he said.