His Excellency Mohammed B.S. Jallow, Vice President of the Republic of The Gambia, on Wednesday, August 20, delivered a compelling keynote address at the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on
African Development (TICAD9), stressing the urgent need for peace, stability, and inclusive development as foundations for Africa’s future.
In his remarks, VP Jallow underscored the inextricable link between peace and sustainable growth, while reaffirming The Gambia’s unwavering commitment to African-led solutions in addressing the continent’s peace and security challenges. He highlighted the importance of women and youth participation in decision-making, the need to confront climate change with urgency, and the promotion of good governance and inclusive growth as essential drivers of lasting peace.
The Vice President also outlined The Gambia’s continued contributions to regional peace, including its leadership role in the African Union Peace and Security Council, participation in international
peacekeeping missions, and its recent hosting of the Sahel Governance Forum aimed at advancing regional stability.
On the margins of the conference, VP Jallow held bilateral talks with Reverend Ock Soo Park, Founder of the International Youth Fellowship (IYF). Their discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in
youth empowerment through the introduction and expansion of Mind Education, a program designed to foster deep thinking, communication, and self-control among young people, public servants, and citizens
alike.
During the meeting, Rev. Park extended an invitation to the Vice President to attend the 2026 IYF World Camp in Korea. Both parties pledged to work together in advancing character-based education as a tool to boost national development in The Gambia.
Quoting his address, VP Jallow stated: “The peace and stability of Africa are inextricably linked to global peace and stability. Let us co-create innovative solutions for a future where peace is not an aspiration,
but a lived reality for all.”

TICAD9, a platform for strengthening cooperation between Africa and Japan, continues to serve as a vital forum for shaping partnerships that advance peace, development, and prosperity across the
continent.