In the villages of Sanunding, Kundam Mafatty, Bamba Kolong, and Kunukou, conversations about democracy are taking root in a new way. The National Council for Civic Education (NCCE), backed by the EU-UNDP GREAT Initiative, has just concluded a sensitization campaign across the Upper River Region (URR) and Central River Region (CRR) South one that is less about lectures and more about listening, dialogue, and empowerment.
At the Sanunding session, youth leader Mamadou Jawo stood before his peers with a message that resonated deeply: young people must not only cast ballots but also step forward as candidates. “We are the cream of society,” he declared, urging his generation to see themselves as architects of the nation’s future rather than passive observers. His words carried the weight of possibility—an invitation for youth to transform their energy into leadership.
In Bamba Kolong, the conversation shifted to the digital sphere. Aminata Gaye, a participant, spoke candidly about the dangers of misinformation spreading through platforms like TikTok. “We are increasingly exposed to misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech, all of which can undermine peaceful elections and social cohesion,” she warned. Her appeal was simple but urgent: verify before you share, and stand against divisive narratives.
These sessions were not isolated events but part of a broader movement. By engaging directly with communities, the NCCE is weaving together strands of civic responsibility, digital literacy, and peacebuilding. The campaign highlights how misinformation is not just an online problem—it is a community challenge that requires collective vigilance.
For villagers in URR and CRR South, the campaign was more than an educational exercise; it was a reminder that democracy thrives when citizens are informed, responsible, and united. Through these engagements, the NCCE continues to nurture a culture of participation and resilience ensuring that elections are not only peaceful but also meaningful
