Empowering Youth, Transforming Communities: The Ripple Effect of UN Interventions in The Gambia

In the bustling kitchen of a popular restaurant in Barra, The Gambia, 27-year-old Baboucar Saho confidently directs his team as they prepare for the lunch rush. Five years ago, this scene would have been unimaginable for Baboucar, who had risked everything on a dangerous journey to Europe in search of a better life.

"I was desperate," Baboucar recalls. "There were no opportunities here, and I felt I had no choice but to leave."

Intercepted by the Libyan coast guard and returned to Gambia, Baboucar found himself back where he started, but with a glimmer of hope. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) connected him with the Youth Empowerment Project (YEP), a joint initiative of the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the Gambian government.

YEP offers vocational training scholarships to young Gambians, focusing on sectors with high growth potential. For Baboucar, this meant a chance to pursue his passion for cooking through an intensive 18-month chef training program.

"The program was challenging," Baboucar admits. "We learned everything from knife skills and food safety to menu planning and kitchen management. There were times I doubted myself, but our instructors pushed us to excel."

Chef Modou Faal, who trained Baboucar, recalls his dedication: 

"From day one, Baboucar stood out. His passion for cooking was evident, but more importantly, he showed a real commitment to learning and growing. It's been incredible to see his journey from student to head chef."

Baboucar's transformation has had a profound impact on his family. His mother, Fatoumatta, beams with pride as she shares, "When Baboucar left for Europe, I feared I'd never see him again. Now, he's not only safe but thriving. He supports our family and inspires other young people in our community. The YEP didn't just change Baboucar's life – it changed all of ours."

The ripple effect extends beyond Baboucar's immediate family. Fatou Darboe, another YEP graduate now running her own catering business, explains: "Seeing Baboucar's success gave me the courage to pursue my own dreams. The YEP training equipped me with both culinary skills and business knowledge. Now, I employ three other young people from our community."

Community leader Alieu has witnessed the broader impact: 

"Before YEP, our youth were restless, with many considering the dangerous journey to Europe. Now, I see a new energy in Barra. Young people are starting businesses, contributing to their families, and actively participating in community development. It's like a weight has been lifted from our whole town."

The success of YEP goes beyond individual stories. Since its inception in 2017, the program has:

• Provided vocational training to over 5,000 young Gambians
• Helped launch 250 new small businesses
• Increased youth employment in target sectors by 30%
• Contributed to a 15% rise in tourism revenue through improved hospitality services

However, challenges remain. "Getting the training was amazing, but we still struggle with access to credit and navigating business regulations," Babucarr points out. "We need ongoing mentorship to really thrive."

Modou Touray, YEP's technical adviser, acknowledges these challenges: "We're constantly evolving the program based on feedback from our graduates. We're introducing a micro-loan program and partnering with local banks to provide financial literacy training. We're also establishing a network of business mentors to provide long-term support."

For Bubacar Trawally, an ITC staff member who has been with YEP since its inception, the project represents the transformative power of UN interventions: 

"YEP is more than just a training program. It's a catalyst for sustainable development. By empowering youth, we're building a skilled workforce, promoting entrepreneurship, and contributing to The Gambia's economic growth."

He continues, "Our rigorous monitoring and evaluation show that for every young person directly trained by YEP, an average of three additional jobs are created in their communities. This multiplier effect is key to creating lasting change."

As for Baboucar, he's dreaming bigger than ever. "Next year, I'm opening my own restaurant," he says with a grin. "And you can bet I'll be hiring YEP graduates. It's my turn to give back."

The Youth Empowerment Project demonstrates the far-reaching impact of targeted UN interventions. By providing skills, opportunity, and hope, YEP is empowering a new generation to build a brighter future for themselves, their communities, and their country.