The 1st Regional Conference of Youth on Disaster Risk Reduction: Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders in Banjul, The Gambia

Article written by: Kumba Sonko

The African Union Youth Advisory Board on Disaster Risk Reduction (AYAB DRR) organized the inaugural Regional Conference of Youth on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) for West Africa at the Sir Dawda Jawara International Conference Centre in Banjul, The Gambia. Held over two days, the conference brought together youth leaders, experts, and policymakers from across the region to discuss and collaborate on innovative approaches to disaster risk reduction. Through a series of engaging sessions and thought-provoking discussions, the event underscored the critical role of youth in mitigating disaster risks and adapting to climate change in the region.

The primary objective of the conference was to empower young people to engage actively in DRR strategies and policy-making, recognizing that youth are often the most affected by disasters but also hold the potential to drive change. The AYAB DRR's efforts were aimed at ensuring the voices of young Africans are heard in global discussions on DRR, climate adaptation, and sustainable development.

The conference offered a platform for young people to:

1. Share knowledge and experiences regarding disaster risks and youth-led DRR initiatives in their countries.

2. Collaborate on developing actionable plans that can be implemented at local, national, and regional levels to address disaster risks.

3. Advocate for youth inclusion in disaster management and DRR policies and frameworks, ensuring that their contributions are recognized and integrated into national and regional disaster response plans.

4. Enhance awareness about the intersection of climate change, disaster risks, and the urgent need for sustainable development.

Author: Kumba Sonko in attendance

Day 1: Setting the Stage for Youth-Led DRR Action

The first day of the conference was marked by key sessions that aimed to equip participants with knowledge, tools, and a deeper understanding of how youth can contribute to disaster risk reduction and climate action.

Session 1: Scene Setting on the Expectations of Youth on DRR

The conference kicked off with a keynote address by Ms. Ruth Chomola from Zimbabwe, the Secretary General of the African Union Commission Youth Advisory Board on Disaster Risk Reduction. She set the stage by discussing the expectations of youth regarding disaster risk reduction. Ms. Chomola emphasized the importance of empowering young people to actively participate in DRR processes, ensuring that their perspectives are reflected in policies and strategies that address disaster resilience.

Session 2: Presentation on National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) at a Glance

Ms. Mbassi Sanneh, Program Officer at the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) of The Gambia, provided an insightful presentation on the role of the NDMA in disaster management in the country. She highlighted the agency’s efforts in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, as well as its collaboration with regional and international partners to build resilience against natural disasters.

Session 3: Training on the Role of Literature in Disaster Mitigation in West Africa

Mr. Hassoum Ceesay, Director General of the National Centre for Arts and Culture and the National Museum of The Gambia, led a training session focused on the role of literature in disaster mitigation. He explained how traditional oral histories, literature, and cultural practices play an important role in disaster preparedness in West Africa. Ceesay emphasized how storytelling, passed down through generations, can help communities prepare for and recover from disasters.

Session 4: Panel Discussion on Policy for Climate Action and Disaster Risk Reduction

A dynamic panel discussion featured policymakers and stakeholders discussing the intersection of climate change action and disaster risk reduction policies. The panel explored how governments can integrate youth perspectives into national disaster response strategies and policies, ensuring that young people are equipped to lead in times of crisis.

Session 5: GIS-Based Flood Risk Mapping

Dr. Nuru Umar Khalil, a scholar and researcher from Zaria University, Nigeria, presented on GIS-based flood risk mapping. He discussed the importance of Geographic Information System (GIS) tools in identifying and managing flood risks, especially in urban areas prone to climate-induced flooding. Dr. Khalil emphasized the need for more research and collaboration in utilizing these technologies for disaster risk mitigation.

Session 6: The Role of History in Disaster Mitigation in Traditional West Africa

Dr. Ousman Mamakey Bojang, a lecturer at the University of The Gambia, explored how traditional knowledge and historical practices have contributed to disaster risk mitigation in West Africa. Dr. Bojang highlighted how ancient methods of using Drums, other traditional instruments and birds to give warnings of incoming Disasters as well as communicating during Disasters. 

Session 7: Impact of Natural Disasters on Youth

The final session of Day 1 focused on the impact of natural disasters on youth, led by Ms. Mbassi Sanneh from the NDMA. She provided valuable insights into how disasters disproportionately affect young people, particularly in terms of education, mental health, and future opportunities. She stressed the importance of incorporating youth in disaster response and recovery efforts to ensure sustainable and inclusive solutions.

Day 2: Youth Advocacy and Innovation in DRR

The second day of the conference was centered around youth-led initiatives, innovation, and climate change advocacy. The sessions focused on empowering young people to take action, advocate for climate resilience, and use technology to mitigate disaster risks.

Session 1: Training on the Role of Youth in Climate Change Advocacy and Actions

Dr. Ebrima Sonko, an Adjunct Lecturer at the University of The Gambia and Climate Change Expert at WASC, delivered a comprehensive training on the role of youth in climate change advocacy and action. He encouraged participants to use their platforms and voices to demand urgent climate action, highlighting how young people can drive policy change and build sustainable solutions to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Session 2: Online Presentation on Assessing the Spatial Configuration and the Exposure of Built-Up Areas in Burkina Faso to Urban Pluvial

Mr. Aime Sawadogo presented an online session focused on the spatial configuration and exposure of urban areas in Burkina Faso to urban pluvial flooding. He discussed how urban planning and infrastructure development contribute to or mitigate the risks of flooding, urging the need for better urban management to reduce the impact of such disasters.

Session 3: Panel Discussion on Youth Innovation: The Use of Social Media, AI, and Technology to Mitigate Disasters

A highly anticipated panel discussion focused on youth innovation in disaster risk reduction through social media, artificial intelligence (AI), and other technologies. Dr. Nuru Umar Khalil facilitated the discussion, with panelists Ramatoulie F. Sonko, Ebrima O. Today, and Ramatoulie Jallow sharing their experiences in using digital tools to raise awareness, provide early warnings, and mobilize communities in times of disaster.

Youth Declaration and Commitment

The conference concluded with the presentation of a Youth Declaration, a collective call to action that outlined the commitment of youth to play a central role in disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation. The declaration emphasized the importance of youth leadership, inclusivity in policy-making, and the urgent need for collaboration between young people, governments, and international organizations in tackling disaster risks in West Africa.

Conclusion: A New Era of Youth-Led Disaster Risk Reduction

The 1st Regional Conference of Youth on Disaster Risk Reduction in Banjul, The Gambia, was a resounding success, providing a vital platform for young people to contribute their ideas, share experiences, and commit to action in disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation. The conference highlighted the immense potential of youth as leaders in building resilient communities across West Africa.

The conference was attended by a wide range of stakeholders, including government representatives, international development organizations, humanitarian agencies, and the private sector. These partnerships played a crucial role in fostering dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collaboration among youth and experts. Notably, the AYAB DRR’s collaboration with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and other regional organizations helped strengthen the impact of the conference’s outcomes.

By focusing on training, policy discussions, and innovative solutions, the event fostered a sense of responsibility and urgency among the participants. As the youth of West Africa continue to face increasing climate risks and disasters, their involvement in shaping policies and driving change will be key to securing a sustainable and disaster-resilient future for the region.

As part of our ongoing efforts to promote Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), after the event, I have developed an action plan to create a short video titled “Building Resilience, Reducing Risk.” The video will highlight key strategies for minimizing disaster risks and enhancing community resilience. Through compelling visuals, we will showcase the importance of understanding local hazards, preparing emergency plans, strengthening infrastructure, and ensuring effective response systems. By sharing real-life examples of individuals and communities who have successfully implemented DRR measures, the video aims to inspire viewers to take action and contribute to building safer, more resilient environments. This campaign will also serve as an educational tool to encourage local engagement, raise awareness, and foster collective responsibility in disaster preparedness and recovery. 

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