The Young Journalists Association of The Gambia, yesterday, held its 1st anniversary celebration at a colorful ceremony held at the NaNa Conference Hall in Bakau.

The theme for the first anniversary celebration was “The Role of Journalists in National Development”. The festivities included a procession from Observer Junction to the conference hall.

Speaking at the occasion, the president of YJAG, Nfamara Jawneh, said that the association was formed on the 16th of September 2007 and aims to build the capacity of young journalists, both practicing and aspiring. He stated that the association aims to also complement the efforts of The Gambia Press Union by promoting press freedom and the general welfare of its members.

He revealed that the day was one of sober reflection on the achievements and constraints that have faced the association during the year. He said that in pursuance of it goals, YJAG, on the eve of yesterday’s anniversary, concluded a one-day capacity building workshop for about 40 of its members from various media houses and press clubs at the Nusrat Senior Secondary School.

Jawneh further revealed that despite numerous achievements, there is a need to improve in making The Gambia more press friendly and to also inculcate a greater spirit of responsible journalism in young journalists. He thanked the managing director of The Point, Mr Pap Saine for being very supportive of the association during the course of the year. He also expressed delight with the attendance of the Secretary of State for Information and Communication Technology, Fatim Badjie Janneh and all  others who made the effort to grace the occasion.

Mr Pap Saine, the managing editor of The Point newspaper expressed appreciation to YJAG for its tremendous contribution to the improvement and development of young journalists in the country. He urged them to work hard to realise their dreams and aspirations.

For her part, the secretary of state for Communication, Information and Information Technology, Mrs Fatim Badjie Janneh, thanked YJAG for their benevolent contribution towards the development of The Gambia. Mrs Badjie Janneh also challenged the young journalists to report true stories and avoid reporting false information. She advised the young journalists to work hard and be committed to their profession. She finally called for attitudinal change within the profession.

Halifa Sallah made a presentation entitled “The Role of the Media in National Development”. M. Suwaibou Conateh dilated on the topic “Opportunities and Challenges in the Media”. The vote of thanks was delivered by the public relations officer of YJAG, Assan Sallah, who thanked all the delegates and members for their attendance. He urged the members to always work hard and help realise the dreams of YJAG. The closing remarks were delivered by Mrs Amie Bojang, the board chairperson of YJAG.