High-Level Breakfast Meeting: Summit of the Future – Youth Consultations 2024 Opening Remarks for the Resident Coordinator

Honourable Ministers, 

Distinguished Permanent Secretaries, 

Esteemed representatives from the Department of Development Planning, TANGO, GALGA, The Mayor of Banjul,

KMC,

UN Heads of Agencies, 

Respected youth leaders, 

Ladies and gentlemen,

Good morning.

It is a great honor to welcome you all to this high-level breakfast meeting, a key step in The Gambia's preparation for the Summit of the Future. The United Nations is privileged to support the creation of a platform where youth can engage in meaningful dialogue on critical development issues. This collaboration sets a vital precedent for future initiatives, demonstrating the value of engaging youth in shaping critical development issues and fostering a model of inclusive dialogue and partnership.

The first two days of engagements marked a significant milestone, bringing together two hundred young people from across The Gambia to listen to and interact with one another. Their dedication, enthusiasm, and innovative ideas during the National Youth Consultation have been invaluable. Their insights and recommendations will guide our collaborative efforts and help translate their perspectives into actionable strategies aligned with the goals of the Summit of the Future.

Ladies and gentlemen

Participating in the Summit of The Future presents a crucial opportunity for The Gambia to highlight its national priorities, articulate its perspectives on global issues, and reaffirm its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Summit of the Future provides a unique platform for nations to come together and redefine our shared objectives, emphasizing sustainability and resilience. At this pivotal moment, it is vital that our youth actively contribute to shaping the future. As United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has emphasized, we recognize that by working together, we can address current challenges and safeguard against future risks; however, we must place young people at the center of decision-making in multilateral efforts and find ways to incorporate the interests of future generations into today’s decisions. Their input will help ensure that our choices are inclusive, forward-thinking, and aligned with the aspirations of future generations.

Ladies and gentlemen

I am excited to announce that the Department of Development Planning, led by the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, will present the Recovery-Focused National Development Plan, known as “Yiriwaa.” This presentation will demonstrate how The Gambia’s priorities, particularly Outcome 6.3: 'Enhanced economic opportunities and holistic social and cultural development for youth,' align with the key themes of the Summit. Additionally, it aims to inspire youth to align their interests with these priorities. Applying an intersectional lens will be crucial in harnessing the diverse interests of youth, including female youth and those with disabilities.

We must also acknowledge the broader implications of the “Yiriwaa” plan, which could highlight the support provided by UNDP and reinforce our commitment to sustainable development. It is vital that the government ensures its final statement at the Summit reflects and conveys the issues raised by the youths of The Gambia.

As we move forward, let us fully engage in today’s discussions and immerse ourselves in the ideas presented. It is essential for us, as leaders and stakeholders, to collaborate effectively to shape a future that truly reflects the aspirations of all Gambians. This includes recognizing the critical role of young people and the urgent need to empower them through education, inclusive policymaking, and leadership opportunities. In conclusion, let us seize this moment to forge a unified pact that captures our shared vision and reinforces our commitment to youth-driven sustainable development in The Gambia. Let us also reaffirm the key message of the Summit: “Let young people lead the way.

Thank you, and I wish you all a great session ahead.