Gambiaj.com – (Banjul, the Gambia)- The sun rose over The Gambia this morning like it does every day, but for the young people of this country, today is not just another date on the calendar. It is International Youth Day, and with it comes a question no Gambian youth can escape: What will you do with the future in your hands?
From the narrow streets of Banjul to the farmlands of Basse, a generation is standing at a crossroads. On one path lies the comfortable silence of “business as usual,” corruption swept under the carpet, opportunities stolen, promises broken. On the other lies the harder road, to fight for integrity, justice, and a nation where no citizen is left behind.
The Edward Francis Small Center for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) is not mincing words. In their statement for International Youth Day 2025, they remind young Gambians,
“You inherit not only the beauty of our land and culture, but also the scars of corruption, impunity, inequality, and democratic backsliding. To salvage the Republic is not just a slogan, it is your solemn duty.”
They urge youth to rise beyond social media outrage and take real action: register and vote, hold leaders accountable, reject tribalism, protect the environment, and refuse to be bought or silenced. History, they warn, does not wait, and neither should the youth.
“The destiny of The Gambia is in your hands – not tomorrow, but today.”
For Ousainu Colley, known to many as Ousainu Gambia, a youth leader and climate advocate, the fight against corruption begins with recognizing the power young people already have.
“The involvement of youths in the fight against corruption is very crucial, given that they make up the largest percentage of the population. Corruption affects youth empowerment and employment, and since young people are in the most energetic stage of life, they have the strength and drive to lead change on issues that affect our national development.”
His advice to the youth is clear: “Young people should engage more in advocacy, speaking up and writing for transparency and accountability, and they should do so inclusively, without selectiveness or favoritism. Emancipate yourselves, be bold, stand strong, and join the fight against corruption without fear or favor.”
International Youth Day, established by the United Nations in 1999, is observed annually on August 12 to highlight the contributions and potential of young people worldwide. According to United Nations data, there are over 1.2 billion youth between the ages of 15 and 24, accounting for nearly 16% of the global population. This demographic represents a significant force with the capacity to influence social, economic, and political change.
