On the occasion of the fifth edition of the "72 hours" organized in Kaffrine, the Youth Network for Active Citizenship and Development (REJCAD) mobilized strongly around the theme: "72 hours of action to end child marriage and promote active citizenship in favor of health".

According to Baba Sao Gaye, president of REJCAD, "this theme reflects the network's ongoing commitment to combating harmful practices that jeopardize the future of children, especially girls." He explains that these "72 hours" serve as a reminder that citizenship is not limited to rights, but also entails responsibilities, particularly in the areas of health, child protection, and community accountability.

During these three days of activities, several concrete actions were carried out in the Kaffrine region, including "awareness campaigns, sports and civic activities, sanitation operations as well as community exchanges focused on health and the fight against early marriage".

REJCAD also drew attention to "recent data revealing the persistence of child marriage, particularly in schools." This phenomenon constitutes "a major obstacle to the education, development, and leadership of young girls," as well as their full participation in the country's development. Faced with this reality, Baba Sao Gaye affirmed "his commitment to supporting young girls in order to strengthen their empowerment and their role within society."

Furthermore, this fifth edition of the "72 Hours of REJCAD" was marked by "citizen actions in support of blood donation" in a region like Kaffrine, which is frequently confronted with "road accidents and health emergencies." REJCAD thus encourages young people to "be role models of civic engagement by taking concrete actions to save lives," particularly those of pregnant women and accident victims.

Finally, Mr. Gaye commended "the commitment of local groups and partner associations," whose fieldwork is now visible and recognized by the population. While reaffirming "his determination to continue this fight," the network's president, Mr. Gaye, called upon "administrative and local authorities, as well as technical and financial partners," to strengthen support and sustainably consolidate the fight against child marriage, while promoting citizenship and development in Kaffrine.