By Ndey Sowe
The Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) hosted its annual forum on Thursday, 21 November 2024, under the theme “Empowering Local Economies: Strategies for Growth and Collaboration in The Gambia.”
Supported by the European Union Delegation in The Gambia, the event took place at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara Conference Centre, drawing key players from the Gambian economy, including leaders from private and public sectors.
The forum emphasized fostering a collaborative environment to empower local businesses and enhance regional integration. Discussions focused on strategies to promote sustainable economic growth, with a series of expert-led panel discussions covering critical topics affecting the Gambian economy.
Mr. Edrissa Mass Jobe, President of GCCI, warmly welcomed participants, and expressed optimism about the forum’s potential to shape the future of The Gambia’s economy.
“Entrepreneurs are the backbone of our economy, taking on the challenge not just to find work for themselves, but to create employment and opportunities for others. The insights from this forum will lay a solid foundation for empowering local communities and promoting inclusiveness,” he said.
Lamin Manneh, Adviser to the Governor of the Central Bank of The Gambia, emphasized the importance of a stable economic environment in attracting investments.
“A stable and predictable economic environment is critical for promoting investments, growth, and development at both national and international levels. A well-functioning financial system is indispensable for achieving these objectives,” he stated.
Manneh highlighted the critical role of trade and export expansion in The Gambia’s economic transformation, underscoring the government’s commitment to effectively implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Lumana Kamashi, Development Cooperation and International Aid Officer of the EU Delegation underscored the EU’s commitment to empowering the Gambian private sector.
“Today’s forum provides a platform for the private sector, public sector, and development partners to network, share insights, and explore opportunities. The EU is deeply committed to supporting The Gambia’s economic development,” she said.
Kamashi also highlighted the challenges faced by women in business, including limited access to information, finance, and land, alongside inadequate market opportunities and societal barriers.
Abdoulie Jammeh, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Trade, highlighted the importance of the forum in shaping policies and strategies to unlock the potential of The Gambia’s private sector, which he described as the “engine of growth.”
“As we reflect on our National Development Plan, we must recognize the private sector as a fundamental element of sustainable development, fostering entrepreneurship, investment, and innovation across all sectors of the economy,” Jammeh noted.
