As delivered:

Salutations

The Representative from the Ministry of Justice

The Representative from the National Youth Council

The Founder - Women in Liberation and Leadership (WILL), Ms. Fatou Baldeh

Distinguished Participants and the Media

Colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen,                                                                                                                                                                        

Good morning                                                                                                                                                                     

It is an honor to join you today at this important Hybrid Stakeholder Forum on Transitional Justice-Youth and Diaspora Engagement—an initiative proudly supported by the United Nations Development Programme through our Post-TRRC Project, which is jointly implemented by UNDP and OHCHR.

Today’s gathering represents not merely a continuation of our journey towards justice and reconciliation in The Gambia, but a pivotal a moment where we intentionally focus on amplifying the voices that have frequently been marginalized: the youth and the diaspora.

As we reflect on the progress made since the conclusion of the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC), it is important to acknowledge that the path toward sustainable peace is gradual, and it takes time. It requires collective and ongoing effort, continuous inclusive dialogue, and the courage to willingly address painful truths while planning for the country’s future.

This hybrid stakeholder forum demonstrates our shared commitment. It is especially encouraging that so many young people—from across The Gambia and the diaspora—are participating both virtually and in person, to shape a transitional justice process that is inclusive, forward-looking, and truly transformative.

At UNDP, we strongly believe that peace cannot be achieved without the meaningful inclusion of all voices. As our former Administrator, Mr. Achim Steiner, has said: “Development must be owned and driven by the people. The solutions to today’s challenges are not found in boardrooms alone—they are shaped by the lived realities of those most affected.”

It is in that spirit that WILL and UNDP have convened this forum—not merely as a symbolic gesture—but as a substantive platform for engagement, advocacy, and collaboration. I would like to thank WILL through you, Dr. Fatou Baldeh, and your whole team, for this exceptional initiative for continued dialogue and engagement, and most importantly, a call to action towards “Never Again”. 

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

Youth who make up 77% of The Gambian population have shown remarkable resilience, creativity, and a deep desire to contribute to national peacebuilding and development. Under the leadership of the National Youth Council and Ministry of Youth officially launched the National Action Plan for Youth Peace and Security earlier this year – the sixth country in the world to do so. The diaspora, on the other hand, is an important partner that continues to serve as a critical source of remittances, investments, inspiration and solidarity. Your experiences, insights and perspectives in this engagement is therefore relevant and critical to national development. 

I hope that this dialogue will produce concrete recommendations to help better inform policies, strategies and action plans that resonate with the diverse stakeholder groups making up The Gambian society. Most importantly, it should contribute to the establishment of stronger networks and partnerships for long-term peacebuilding to show the full might and resolve of the people of The Gambia.

I would like to emphasize that transitional justice is not an endpoint. It is a long journey that demands vigilance, active participation, and accountability if we are to truly rebuild trust, restore dignity, and demonstrate a shared commitment to human rights and democratic values.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Currently the 4^th International Conference on Financing for Development is ongoing in Seville, Spain with HE the Vice President leading The Gambian delegation. Globally, we know that there is huge gap in the financing for the SDGs and the gathering is working together to build consensus on a more equitable global architecture for the SDGs. We to here, must consider how the concrete action plans are implemented to benefit the people of The Gambia. We must think about how we go beyond Banjul to have a meaning impact for all Gambians across the country and tap into that youth dividend that makes up 77% of this great nation.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

UNDP stands ready—to continue accompanying The Gambia in this journey working closely with the Government, Civil Society, Development Partners, and the people of The Gambia.

In closing, allow me to commend you all for honoring the invitation to participate in this august gathering amidst your busy schedules. Much appreciation to WILL for making this event possible, which is yet another testament of our continued partnership in promoting transitional justice. Today’s event is more than a dialogue. Let it ignite renewed commitment to action, deeper engagement, and lasting change.

Thank you, and I wish you all a productive and impactful engagement.

ABARAKAH. JERE JEFF. JARAMA.