By Fatou Saho
On Saturday, The Gambia hosted its second edition of Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) on climate change at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara Conference Centre.
The conference, which sought to create platform for youth, policy makers and stakeholders to discuss on issues related to climate change and proffer solutions, had sessions where representatives from different environmental groups, stakeholders and some parliamentarians served as panelists on various discussions related to climate change.
Speaking at the opening, the LCOY Gambia coordinator Mr. Dawda Charm, said the inception of LCOY in the country was a natural progression of the global movement tailored to address the unique climate challenges facing the nation which the Gambia is not an exception to.
“The effects of climate change; raise in temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns and see level raise are few of the challenges we are faced with. I hope by the end of this conference, we will be able to provide answers and solutions to the pressing issues. We implore on government to continue and expand their efforts as they are the key player in addressing climate challenges through policy development and resource allocation. Collaboration between the government and young people is the corner stone of effective climate action plan. We must be willing to engage, provide innovative solutions and actively participate in decision making processes, “ Charm highlighted.
Meanwhile, the deputy permanent secretary, ministry of environment, climate change and natural resources, Bubacarr Zaidi Jallow, commended the youth for their contributions towards enhancing capacities of other Gambians to enable accelerate climate actions.
He therefore assured the youth that the government will be fully committed to support in building the capacities of young climate change enthusiasts in the areas of environmental management, climate adaptation and mitigation.
Momodou Inkeh Bah, president of Gambia Environmental Alliance, said through the LCOY, “we will be able to share ideas and skills including opportunities propelled and enhance awareness of climate issues in our communities”.
