Environmental Sustainability

Across the West Coast Region of The Gambia, the threat of environmental degradation is a daily reality. Communities are grappling with mounting waste and disappearing green spaces. Yet, amid these challenges, a new generation is rising, determined to be the change. The youth are stepping up to champion local solutions.

This year, to mark the Youth Day of Service, ChildFund joined forces with LEAP Africa and Dow Chemical to support young people to take action for the planet. In collaboration with its local partner organizations (Saama Kairo, Foni Ding Ding, and Ding Ding Yiriwa Federations) ChildFund mobilized hundreds of youth for a massive community clean-up and tree planting campaign across its program areas.

“We believe in the power of youth to lead meaningful change,” said Samba Keita, ChildFund’s Business Development Specialist. “A society without youth leading community action is liable to fail. With youth participation in community service, sustainability is assured.”

The initiative began with young people gathering in their towns, armed with waste bins, tools, and megaphones. As they picked up litter and planted trees, they also spread messages about environmental responsibility through a public address system, to educate communities on the importance of conserving and practical actions they can take to do their part.

“No one will come and clean our environment for us,” said Omar, one of the participating youth. “We are the ones who pollute it, and so we must take responsibility. ChildFund gave us the materials and the platform, the rest is on us.”

The Brikama Area Council, the largest municipal authority in The Gambia, endorsed the youth-led action and pledged continued support. “We face enormous challenges in managing waste,” said Lamin Singhateh, the Council’s Public Relations Officer.

Girls, too, showed up in force. Mariama, a university student and ChildFund-sponsored child, said: “Girls have an equal stake in protecting our environment. We were in class when we heard about the activity, and we knew we had to join. Clearing rubbish around the town and near the main hospital was an achievement we’re proud of.”

The day concluded with youth gathering at the ChildFund-supported Youth Friendly Multipurpose Centre — a space they now use to dialogue on issues that matter to them, including climate change, education, and employment.

“Seeing young people lead by example and speaking out while taking action is powerful,” said ChildFund Communications Specialist Mustapha Mbye. “This is more than a one-day event. It’s the beginning of a movement. And ChildFund is proud to stand with youth, year after year.”