The bi-annual youth bantaba, a forum where youths gather to discuss issues of concern - slated from the 1st to the 10th August 2009, in Central River Region - is budgeted at D750,950.

In his opening remarks, Ousman O. Jallow, the national youth director of The Gambia Red Cross Society (GRCS), described the bi-annual youth bantaba as a major activity for youths to interact and exchange ideas. According to him, the importance of the event cannot be over-emphasised. He cited the positive impact the previous bantabas had made to the GRCS fraternity. He said the importantce attached to the launching should  remind people of the importance of the bantaba. He cited the positive impact the previous bantabas had made to the GRCS fraternity. He said the upcoming bantaba in August, will be accomplished with many activities such as first aid training, tree planting, Hiv/Aids training, road safety among others.

He then revealed that this year’s bantaba theme is “your world, our move”. He added that come June 2009, the GRCS will celebrate 150 years existence. For her part, the president of The Gambia Red Cross Society, Fatou Mass Jobe, described the bantaba as a place where youths sit and discuss issues concerning them. She advised the organising committee about the forth coming bi-annual bantaba to carry out their task without discrimination. She use the occasion to thank their partners who had been supportive to the GRCS and called for more support for the successful implementation of the upcoming youth bantaba in Central River Region.

Deputising the chief of defence staff, Lt Colonel Yakuba Drammeh, chief of Army Staff, described the investment in youths as a worthwhile venture. He cited the vital role youths play in any country. Speaking on behalf of the secretary of state for Youths  and Sports, Malang Jassey, director of Youths and Sports, cited the need for young people to be well nurtured as they are the future leaders.

He described the GRCS as a true partner to the department of state for Youths and Sports in empowering the young people of this country. Other speakers included Ismaila Gibba of the National Organising Committee and the acting secretary general of GRCS, Katim Touray.