Neneh Macdouall-Gaye, the Secretary of State for Information, Communication and Technology, Friday 29th September 2006, officially launched the Information, Communication Technology (ICT) Media and Youth Networks campaign at her office along the MDI Road in Kanifing. In her launching statement, SoS Macdouall-Gaye said The Media and Youth have a significant role to play in the development of the ICT sector in the Gambia. She described the occasion as another milestone in the building of an inclusive information society in the country.

According to her, the government of The Gambia, in partnership with the United Nation Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) identified stakeholders in the Information and Communication Technology (ITC) programme as a way of building a common understanding and vision among stakeholders for utilising ICT as a vehicle of support. “It is envisioned that this initiative will complement the realisation of the goals and objectives of vision 2020, the PRSP and MDGs” she said.

She added that the main objectives of the ICT Media Network is to create a conducive and enabling environment for the involvement of the media in reporting, stimulating debates, raising awareness on the potential of ICT, through the production of Radio and TV broadcasting programs and newspaper articles as tools for developing and implementing the ICT for development campaign.

According to SoS Macdouall-Gaye this programme is within the framework of the Tunis Agenda of the World Summit on Information Society (WSIS) and the African Relational Action Plan on the Knowledge Economy (ARAPKE). She therefore urged all journalists, media practitioners and ICT specialists to collaborate with her Department of State for the successful execution of programmes. She then told the gathering that President Jammeh has clearly demonstrated his vision for the Gambian youth, which is well manifested in his youth policy where they are considered in facets of the development agenda. “I can assure you that with the confidence and interest His Excellency, the president has in you the youths, I have no doubt that the project you aim to achieve will have his full support. Please be assured of the support of the government in your inspiring innovation of establishing Youth Internet and Training Centre for the Gambian youth in all communities.”

Dr Thierry H. Amoussougbo, Regional Advisor, ICT initiative, Development of Information Services Division (DISD), UNECA expressed delight over the launching of the programme, which he said, will help boost the development of Information Communication Technology in The Gambia. He described ICT as a tool for development.

The launching was attended by media chiefs, amongst others.