Adama Cabality Sallah, First Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambians Abroad
By Fatou Sillah
Adama Cabality Sallah, the First Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambians Abroad, represented The Gambia at the 8th China-Africa Youth Festival. This significant event aimed to foster stronger China-Africa relations through youth engagement and collaboration.
Sallah acknowledged the profound impact of Chinese culture and technological progress.
“My main takeaways from the 8th China-Africa Youth Festival include a deep appreciation for China’s cultural heritage, political history, and technological advancements. The visit to the Great Wall of China emphasized the importance of preserving and celebrating one’s historical landmarks, while the lectures at Peking University provided insights into China-Africa relations and global development,” she said
She further noted, “for the youth in The Gambia, these experiences underscore the value of cultural exchange and the benefits of learning from different global perspectives. Exposure to advanced technologies and innovative practices, such as those observed at the car factory in Jinhua, can inspire young Gambians to pursue careers in technology and manufacturing. Additionally, understanding China’s political and economic strategies through the CPC museum visit can offer valuable lessons in governance and development, she added.
Sallah pointed out that insights into China’s strategies for reducing poverty and enhancing infrastructure could guide similar efforts in The Gambia’s growth plans.
“The lecture series at Peking University particularly stood out due to their focus on China-Africa relations and sustainable development. The discussions on economic strategies and collaborative projects provided practical insights that can be applied to The Gambia’s development efforts. For instance, learning about China’s approaches to poverty alleviation and infrastructure development could inform similar initiatives in The Gambia.
“Another noteworthy event was the tour of the car factory in Jinhua. Witnessing the integration of advanced manufacturing techniques and automation highlighted the potential for developing a robust manufacturing sector in The Gambia. This could be particularly relevant for creating jobs and boosting the local economy,” she stated.
Sallah believes that the relationship between China and The Gambia is poised to strengthen through increased youth engagement and collaboration.
“Based on my experiences at the festival, the relationship between China and The Gambia is poised to strengthen through increased youth engagement and collaboration. The festival provided a platform for young leaders from both regions to exchange ideas, fostering mutual understanding and respect. This foundation of youth-driven dialogue and cooperation can lead to more joint initiatives in education, technology, and cultural exchange.
“In the future, I envision more structured programs such as internships, exchange programs, and collaborative projects that will allow Gambian youth to benefit from China’s expertise in various fields. This will not only enhance individual capabilities but also contribute to national development goals,” she said.