The Youth Institute of Guinea Bissau, in partnership with the ECOWAS Commission, has successfully conducted a workshop to empower young people with skills and knowledge to address drug use and irregular migration. The initiative is funded by the ECOWAS Youths and Sports Development Centre (EYSDC) based in Ouagadougou. It aims to equip youth leaders to play an active role in tackling these issues within their communities.
Thirty youths were selected for the program, with ten participants each from Bafata, Gabu, and Bissau. The selection process considered gender balance and civilian protection perspectives. Over eight months, these youths will receive training to lead efforts against drug abuse and illegal migration in their regions.
Dignitaries attending the event included Mrs. Elisa Tavares Pinto, Governor General of Gabu; Ambassador Ngozi Ukaeje, ECOWAS Resident Representative in Guinea Bissau; Ussumane Sadjo, President of the Youth Institute of Guinea Bissau; and Tidjane Embalo, Traditional Ruler of Gabu.
In their speeches, they emphasized the importance of rejecting drug use and illegal migration while encouraging youth to engage in productive activities that can lead to sustainable livelihoods. They highlighted the need for young people to focus on building a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
Ambassador Ngozi Ukaeje noted the significance of ECOWAS’s investment in this project. She urged participants to fully utilize the funds and resources provided to ensure long-term success and create a future free from drug abuse and irregular migration dangers.
