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Young Volunteers for the Environment (YVE) Gambia was founded in response to the growing environmental challenges facing The Gambia, including deforestation, climate change, waste management issues, and loss of biodiversity. Recognizing the critical role of young people in driving change, a group of passionate youth came together to establish YVE Gambia as a platform for youth-led environmental action.

Since its inception, YVE Gambia has grown into a leading youth environmental organization in the country, implementing impactful projects, building partnerships, and inspiring a new generation of environmental leaders. The organization is registered with the Government of The Gambia and operates in alignment with national and international frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Paris Agreement, and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

Young Volunteers for the Environment -The Gambia is accredited to UNEP , UNCCD, and Observer to Basel Rotterdam & Stockholm Conventions , SAICM, Climate Investment Fund , OEWG, UNDP GEF Small Grants ; and serves as the National Focal Point and Secretariat for the Sanitation and Water for All Network (SWA) , Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) and International Pollution Elimination Network (IPEN) .

YVE is very active experience  on Emerging Policy Issues (EPIs), Energy and climate  agreements, promoting community and people center approach in helping them to identify and bolster policies and regulations that spur the kind of investments needed to extend access to modern, affordable and reliable energy for all.

YVE Gambia is an active player and contributor to the UNFCCC , UNCBD , AMCEN, AMCOW process amongst others .

Vision

A sustainable and resilient Gambia where communities thrive in harmony with nature, and young people are empowered to lead environmental and social change.

Mission

To empower young people and local communities through education, advocacy, and action to address environmental challenges, promote sustainable development, and build a greener future for all.

Core Values

Youth Leadership: Empowering young people to take the lead in environmental and community development initiatives.

Sustainability: Promoting practices that ensure the long-term health of the environment and society.

Inclusivity: Ensuring that all voices, especially marginalized groups, are heard and included in decision-making processes.

Collaboration: Working with communities, governments, and organizations to achieve shared goals.

Innovation: Embracing creative and innovative solutions to address environmental challenges.

Our values

Our mission is to challenge the status quo, embrace innovation, and create meaningful, lasting impact through everything we do. Driven by a vision to inspire change, push boundaries, we deliver work that truly makes a difference.

Recent Posts

As Lead Paint Continues to Threaten Children’s Health, Groups Globally Call forControls on Lead Chromates, Pigments Used in Lead Paint

On World Environment Day, Public Interest Groups Call for Rotterdam Convention Action Today on World Environment Day, IPEN and its 730+ member groups from around the world are highlighting the ongoing risks to children from lead paint, noting that a key ingredient in lead paint, the pigments known as lead chromates, should be considered for … Continue reading As Lead Paint Continues to Threaten Children’s Health, Groups Globally Call forControls on Lead Chromates, Pigments Used in Lead Paint

Season’s Greetings from YVE The Gambia!

As the year comes to a close, the entire team at Young Volunteers for the Environment (YVE) – The Gambia extends warmest wishes to you and your family. May this festive season be filled with joy, peace, and reflection on our shared commitment to protecting our planet. Thank you for your continuous support, activism, and … Continue reading Season’s Greetings from YVE The Gambia!

From Dialogue to Action: Youth Lead the Way at World Food Forum Gambia Chapter Launch

By Aminta Payne, Communications Officer – Young Volunteers for the Environment (YVE) – The Gambia December 11, 2025 | Bijilo, The Gambia The SDKJ Conference Center in Bijilo was alive with energy and vision on December 10–11, 2025, as the World Food Forum (WFF) Gambia National Youth Chapter officially launched with a powerful two-day event centered on … Continue reading From Dialogue to Action: Youth Lead the Way at World Food Forum Gambia Chapter Launch

A Promising Start: YVE The Gambia and France’s LER Explore Groundbreaking Partnership for Energy and Food Security

  A significant step towards a stronger EU-Africa alliance was taken this week as Young Volunteers for the Environment – The Gambia (YVE) held a highly productive exploratory meeting with the French non-profit Lorraine Énergies Renouvelables (LER). The physical meeting held on 26th November, 2025 at YVE Head office in Serekunda , The Gambia, featuring YVE’s … Continue reading A Promising Start: YVE The Gambia and France’s LER Explore Groundbreaking Partnership for Energy and Food Security

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