By Muhammad Bah The Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) alongside the Gambia Investment and Export Agency, GIEPA, commenced a pre-Ramadan Market on Sunday 22 June. The two leading trade institutions organised the Sunday market just outside Nawec at Westfield. Small businesses across the Kanifing Municipality and beyond displayed the products for interested customers to purchase them. The much needed items appeared cheap and affordable. Speaking during the press briefing, the Manager of Public Services at GCCI Beatrice Prom, said this is the first of its kind to be held in KMC. She explained that they want to bring together the small businesses and allow buyers to purchase quality goods at affordable prices. She expressed her delight as buyers were forthcoming, saying that some have already approached them to continue doing it every week instead of during Ramadan only. She then promised that they would discuss it at management level. A member of the organizing team, Mamadou Lamin Drammeh, said the effort is to create an opportunity for both customers and traders in the area, whereby both groups would benefit from the initiative. Mrs. Prom explained that some traders had offered discounts for buyers and promised not to raise their prices as is done by most traders when events such as Ramadan draw close. Mrs. Sara Conateh, Manager, Business Development, said that they will not stop at sales but will use the occasion as an opportunity for small businesses to thrive by having more linkages. He added that they could find new clients and create good opportunities for their businesses whilst customers could have quality goods to purchase during the period. She described the initiative as wonderful for both buyers and traders. The registration fee for a place to sell is 250 Dalasis for those that wish to be under tents and 100 Dalasis for those who bring along their tents.]]>
