By: Dawda Baldeh
President Adama Barrow leader of the National People’s Party (NPP) has vowed to eradicate irregular migration by creating job opportunities for the youth if re-elected in December.
He made this statement on Thursday at Sabal Sanjal, Kaur and Fass (Upper Saloum) during his campaign tour. He said irregular migration has been a major reason why many young people risk their lives to go and seek greener pastures abroad.
President Barrow said he currently has plans to invest fifty million dollars ($50m) in fishing, an action which will be a step towards eradicating irregular migration.
“We have a $50 million project for the fishing industry,” he said. Adding that his government will purchase fishing trollers and other equipment needed for fishing.
According to him, they will build storage facilities for the cooling of fish and other marine resources. He said the youth will be trained to become professional fishermen.
He cited the constant shortage of fish in the markets during festivals blaming it on the lack of citizens engagement in fishing activities.
“If I am re-elected president, my government will change this trend by supporting the youth,” President Barrow promised.
He also committed to the construction of a place where the fishing trollers will be parked.
“We will build storage facilities for the fish. We will purchase all the required equipment and train the youth of this country. The youths of this country need employment and we are ready to support them,” he said.
“We cannot eradicate irregular migration if we do not keep the youth engaged in meaningful work,” he explained. “My government will continue to work hand in gloves with relevant stakeholders so that our goals can be achieved.”
