By Ramatoulie Jawo
At the shut of their first extraordinary session of the 2024 legislative 12 months on Wednesday, members of the National Youth Parliament handed a movement urging the Gambia authorities to take proactive measures to protect and defend the atmosphere.
During the two-day session, the National Youth Parliament members mentioned and adopted a number of motions centered on bettering the lives of Gambian youth, with excessive hopes that the federal government will implement these suggestions to drive constructive change throughout the nation.
The movement on environmental preservation was launched by the youth consultant from Lower Badibou Constituency, Hon. Saihou Jallow, emphasizing the pressing want for the federal government to take motion in addressing environmental challenges.
“Our planet, our only home, is at a crossroads every day. We witness the consequences of environmental neglect, extreme weather patterns, rising sea levels, loss of biodiversity and the gradual degradation of our natural resources. These are no longer distant issues; they affect our communities, our livelihood and our health. This is a shared responsibility, but the government is busy leading the way,” he mentioned.
Hon. Jallow highlighted the significance of imposing environmental legal guidelines with consistency and rigor, noting that whereas current laws exist on paper, they lack the enforcement wanted to drive actual influence.
“We must ensure that industries are held accountable for pollution, deforestation and unsustainable practices. Strict and consistent enforcement sends a clear message that protecting our environment is not optional. And second, we need to prioritize renewable energy. The time has come to shift from fossil fuels to sustainable renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro. This transition will not only reduce our carbon footprint but will also create jobs, boost our economy and position our nation as a leader in clean energy innovation,” he mentioned.
Jallow famous that the federal government has already taken steps to fight plastic air pollution, tackle local weather change, and improve resilience in opposition to environmental dangers. Coastal communities have additionally undertaken mangrove restoration and marine safety tasks to counter coastal erosion and protect native fisheries.
“The Gambia’s collaborative approach involves multiple international partners, including UNDP and Common Seas, which contribute technical and financial support.”
Jallow additional known as for the federal government to lift public consciousness about sustainable practices, as training is crucial to driving lasting change.
“We must encourage sustainable practices, from waste reduction to energy conservation. When each individual understands their role in environmental protection, we create a movement that is unstoppable. Let us seize this moment to lead with courage, conviction and care. Together through proactive government leadership we can preserve and protect our environment ensuring a sustainable, healthier and more prosperous future for all,” he mentioned.
