The African Network Against Extrajudicial Killings and Enforced Disappearances (ANEKED) has awarded the Human Rights in Action Award –Local Champion 2025 to Raise The Young Foundation, recognizing its tireless commitment to advancing human rights, accountability, and youth empowerment in The Gambia.
The award was presented on Saturday 27th September 2025 at Memory House, Kanifing in a ceremony celebrating outstanding contributions to human rights in The Gambia. According to ANEKED, the award recognizes the foundation’s sustained advocacy for women and children, its visibility in promoting human rights, and its dedication to empowering communities across The Gambia.
In a statement delivered on behalf of the Foundation, the CEO and Founder, Yankuba Keita, said: “This recognition is not just for us, but for everywoman and child whose resilience inspires our work, and for every team member, partner, and community that has believed in this vision from the start. Our collective engagement in promoting human rights, accountability, and youth empowerment is not a single act, but a habit that drives us forward every day. Together, we will continue building a safer, more just Gambia.”
While Raise The Young Foundation has undertaken numerous initiatives over the years, this award marks the first time its contribution has been recognized by a human rights organisation. .
The Foundation dedicates this award to Bintou Colley of Ministry of Justice, who has stood alongside the CEO since the organization’s inception, and to all human rights defenders who quietly champion change without recognition. Special thanks were extended to partners, communities, and supporters who continue to uphold the mission of advancing human rights and youth empowerment in The Gambia.