MOYS graduates 87 youth on GSI training
By Sulayman Waan
The Ministry of Youth and Sports (MOYS) has graduated 87 young people on The Gambia Songhai Initiative (GSI).
The youth successfully completed hands-on training in modern agriculture, business planning, entrepreneurship, smart integrated farming: agroforestry, poultry, beekeeping, aquaculture and more.
The graduates which included 5 persons with disabilities were also equipped with practical skills in poultry management, agroforestry, horticulture, food processing, aquaculture, among others.
The GSI initiative is designed to empower youth and women with sustainable agricultural and business skills, fostering self-employment and economic growth while reducing unemployment among young people.
Honourable Minister Bakary Y. Badjie reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investing in agriculture and supporting youth-led initiatives. Though the GSI project officially ended in 2021, the government fully supported 46 beneficiaries, ensuring their accommodation and feeding.
UNDP The Gambia Resident Representative, Mandisa Mashologu emphasized the importance of turning agriculture into a sustainable business, highlighting that the FAO Agri-Accelerator Programme is a key step in this transformation.
North Bank Regional Governor, Lamin Saidykhan urged graduates to use their knowledge to foster self-sufficiency.
Project Coordinator Mbye Saine commended the resilience of trainees who successfully completed the intensive 12-month programme.
SW/COB/08/02/25
