By Sering Mass Jallow
The Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) Tuesday officially launched the Kanifing Migrants Resilience Hub Scheme, an initiative aimed at supporting the social and economic reintegration of migrant returnees and young Gambians.
The scheme, launched under the leadership of KMC Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda, is supported by a grant of 450,000 U.S. dollars and will particularly focus on migrant returnees from the irregular migration journey as well as attempted migrants, women and single parents.
Speaking at the launch ceremony held at the Councillors’ Chambers at the KMC headquarters, Mayor Bensouda described the initiative as a gateway to hope and opportunity for migrant returnees and young Gambians.
He said the scheme would provide beneficiaries with the necessary support and pathways to transform their talents, skills and determination into sustainable livelihoods.
“Today we launch an opportunity for migrant returnees and young Gambians who have talent and determination, with the support and pathways to turn those qualities into livelihoods,” he said.
Mayor Bensouda said addressing irregular migration requires more than warnings, stressing the need for alternative opportunities, including entrepreneurship, skills development, mentorship and access to economic opportunities for young people.
“This is why this hub matters,” he said.
Paa Sait Ceesay, Chief Executive Officer of KMC, highlighted some of the challenges faced by migrant returnees upon their return, including social isolation, delayed reintegration, unemployment and limited access to economic opportunities.
He said the hub would bring together various forms of support under one initiative, including entrepreneurship training, business incubation, mentorship, psychosocial support, in-kind assistance and market linkages.
Ceesay stressed that successful reintegration requires more than training or financial assistance, noting that a comprehensive approach was necessary to help returnees rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities.
Kemo Bojang, Chairperson of the Board Committee, said the newly-launched initiative would provide a platform for migrant returnees to transform their experiences and skills into productive opportunities.
He said the scheme would support beneficiaries in developing businesses, strengthening communities and creating positive social and economic impact.
Beneficiaries of the program expressed optimism about the initiative, saying they hoped it would provide them with entrepreneurship training, business incubation, mentorship and other development services to facilitate their reintegration and help them build sustainable livelihoods.