Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Young Gambians have been urged to play a more active role in the country’s transitional justice process, with advocates warning that the promise of “Never Again” can only become a reality if the younger generation takes responsibility for defending human rights, promoting accountability, and challenging injustice.
The call was made during a youth outreach program organized by WAVE Gambia, which brought together students, youth leaders, activists, and peace advocates to discuss the role of young people in The Gambia’s journey towards justice, reconciliation, and lasting peace.
The event sought to deepen young people’s understanding of transitional justice, encourage civic participation, and ensure that the experiences of victims of past human rights violations remain at the center of national dialogue.
Justice Requires Youth Participation.
Speakers stressed that transitional justice is not solely the responsibility of government institutions but a collective national effort that depends on the active involvement of citizens, particularly young people, who make up a significant proportion of the country’s population.
Muhammed Trawalleh, a law student at the International Open University (IOU), said the discussion reshaped his understanding of transitional justice by highlighting the importance of inclusion.
“When I came here, I viewed transitional justice mainly from the perspective of government and political will,” Trawalleh said. “But today’s discussion changed my perspective. Transitional justice must be anchored in inclusivity and non-discrimination. Everyone’s voice matters.”
He said meaningful justice begins with acknowledging the wrongs of the past.
“The first step is accepting that what happened was wrong. Once people acknowledge that, they can appreciate the need for truth-seeking, reparations, accountability, and prosecution,” he added.
Trawalleh, who is also a writer and author of Pearls of Sustainable Peace, urged young people to use social media responsibly and avoid spreading misinformation that could undermine reconciliation efforts.
“Let us ensure that the information we share is backed by facts, and let us not dismiss the stories of victims because their experiences are part of The Gambia’s history,” he said.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap
Nenneh Bintou Ceesay, President of the USET Students’ Union, said many young Gambians remain disconnected from the transitional justice process because they have not been adequately informed about its purpose and significance.
“I don’t think enough has been done because many young people are still being left out of conversations about transitional justice and what it entails,” Ceesay said.
She called for more awareness campaigns to help young people better understand their rights, responsibilities, and role in shaping the country’s future.
Cherno Gaye, Programs Manager at Activista Gambia, also underscored the importance of sustained civic education, saying young people must be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to participate meaningfully in national affairs.
Breaking the Silence
Participants also reflected on the dangers of remaining silent in the face of injustice, encouraging young people to speak out whenever human rights violations occur.
“If we see something wrong happening, we should have the courage to speak out,” one participant said. “You never know whose life you might save by refusing to stay silent.”
The outreach forms part of WAVE Gambia’s broader efforts to promote dialogue, raise awareness, and strengthen youth participation in justice, peacebuilding, and accountability initiatives.
As The Gambia continues its transitional justice journey, participants agreed that young people must move beyond being observers and become active contributors to building a society founded on truth, dignity, and respect for human rights.
The central message from the engagement was unequivocal: “Never Again” is not simply a reflection on the past; it is a commitment that today’s generation must uphold to safeguard the future.
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