The Gambia has set in train the youth and women to improve and market their skills and products to the world and prosper via appropriate market channels and the systematic support provided by strategic chambers of commerce. Fatou Dem and Osman Kargbo report the strides taken by these institutions to attain and maintain the objectives of these initiatives.
The Gambia Startup Chamber of Commerce (GSCC), in collaboration with the Gambia Women Chamber of Commerce (GWCC), successfully hosted the maiden edition of The Gambia’s Good Market (GGM) in June this year at Kotu UN75 Park, where the second edition of the Banjul International Trade Fair was officially launched.
The event brought together 30 dynamic entrepreneurs for a vibrant exhibition and networking session, providing a platform to showcase their products and services.
The GGM aims at enhancing market access and foster strategic partnerships for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) operating in the tourism and creative industries, contributing to business growth, sector expansion and the celebration of Made-in-The Gambia products.
The initiative is supported by EU YEP on Tourism and Creative Industries, a project funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC).
During the event, the Second Edition of the Banjul International Trade Fair, scheduled to host over 400 enterprises in December this year, was officially launched.
“The Second Banjul International Trade Fair is not only an event, it is a national platform for economic empowerment, a gateway to regional markets, and a beacon of our collective aspiration for a more prosperous future,” says GWCC CEO Beatrice A. Mboge. “Let us harness this momentum to build bridges, create jobs, and write a new chapter in The Gambia’s trade and investment story.”
“The Second Banjul International Trade Fair is not only an event, it is a national platform for economic empowerment, a gateway to regional markets, and a beacon of our collective aspiration for a more prosperous future.”
The Banjul International Trade Fair is intended to create space for startups and women entrepreneurs in The Gambia especially those dealing with “Made in The Gambia” to exhibit their products and services, network with other vendors and boost the economic growth of businesses in The Gambia.
It is equally aimed at increasing income and business exposure of entrepreneurs as well as building their capacities on product development, branding and marketing among others.
CEO Mboge recognizes the support given to the trade fair since it was first staged in December 2024. “The overwhelming support and enthusiasm from all stakeholders, government institutions, private sector actors, development partners, and the general public have been instrumental in establishing this Trade Fair as a flagship event on our national and regional commercial calendar,” she appreciates, saying: “This is more than just an event; it is a movement towards regional integration, private sector empowerment, and shared prosperity.”
She calls on all to make the Second Banjul International Trade Fair an even greater success and a beacon of possibility for generations to come.
“This second edition is not merely a continuation, it is an elevation. With improved infrastructure, enhanced exhibitor services, and a broader international outreach strategy, this year’s Trade Fair aims to provide an even more vibrant marketplace for innovation, collaboration, and investment,” Mrs Mboge reckons, setting out the Fair’s objectives:
“As we launch this second edition, we are guided by a clear set of objectives:
- To promote The Gambia as a competitive trade and investment destination within the West African sub-region and beyond.
- To provide a platform for women and youth businesses, especially SMEs, to expand their reach, connect with global supply chains, and scale their operations.
- To deepen regional and international trade relations by facilitating dialogue among governments, private sector leaders, and development agencies.
- To encourage innovation and knowledge exchange that drive inclusive economic transformation and resilience.”
As preparations for the second edition unfold, the GWCC extends invitation to all partners, collaborators, and business leaders to join them in driving inclusive economic growth, fostering innovation and creating sustainable opportunities for trade and investment.
“We invite exhibitors, sponsors, and strategic partners from across Africa and the world to take part in this opportunity to engage directly with a growing and dynamic market. Together, let us build lasting partnerships, foster cross-border trade, and champion sustainable economic growth,” CEO Mboge entreats.
While the GGM serves as an investment in the talent, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of Gambian youth and women, as noted by Kanifing Municipality Deputy Mayor Binta Jagne Jallow, the Trade Ministry’s Principal Economist Kemo Janka said the initiative is “designed to drive sustainable growth in Gambia’s tourism and trade sectors, create economic opportunities for local entrepreneurs, and raise the visibility of ‘Made in The Gambia’ products on regional and global platforms.”
He calls on all to support the second edition of the Banjul International Trade Fair, saying: “The event will serve as a vibrant platform for SMEs to showcase their products, network, and build new business connections.”
