The Young Africans Network for Global Goals (YANGG), in partnership with RAFELA and the Banjul City Council (BCC), has organised a remarkable Women and Girls Climate Conference 2025.
The event, held at the BCC conference hall in Banjul on 6 September 2025, marked the vital role of women and girls in climate action, promoting resilience, equality, and inclusive solutions for a sustainable future as far as combating climate change is concerned.
The conference served as a platform for dialogue, with young climate change advocates sharing innovative strategies to address climate challenges while prioritizing the needs of women and vulnerable communities. The participation of the young climate advocates underscored the power of gender-inclusive approaches in shaping effective climate policies and fostering resilience against environmental crises.
Lamin Desmond Colley, YANGG Gambia’s National President, delivered the opening statement at the conference, making a convincing case for inclusive climate governance.
Colley called on the stakeholders to prioritize different voices in decision making process. He believed that “when women and girls are at the centre stage, climate change solutions will be more impactful and equitable”.
Merry K. Badjie, YANGG’s Global Vice President, said the organisation’s broader mission is commitment to addressing the challenges faced by women and youth, not only in climate change but across critical global issues.
She highlighted the conference’s role in amplifying marginalised voices and fostering sustainable development.
The event was witnessed by the lawmakers of Banjul, such as Hon. Fatoumata Njai, Abdoulie Njai and Momodou Lamin Bah, respectively National Assembly members for Banjul South, Banjul Central, and Banjul North. The trio praised YANGG’s efforts to build a network of young African leaders dedicated to advancing the continent’s development. They stressed the importance of collaboration between YANGG and Gambia’s youth to drive meaningful change.
Momodou Lamin Bah, National Assembly Member for Banjul North, offered a sobering perspective on the impact of climate change on the capital city.
The Banjul North NAM mentioned three critical pillars of climate action: sustainability and livelihoods, health and well-being, and education and awareness. “Women and girls are central to these pillars,” Bah noted, saying: “Their contributions are vital in protecting maternal rights, addressing gender-based violence, and empowering communities through education on climate challenges.”
The event further underscored the intersectionality of climate change, gender equality and social justice, inspiring attendees to champion inclusive solutions.
