By Mariatou Ngum
The ever-evolving trade landscape of The Gambia has seen tradition meeting innovation. One glaring example of this reality is the entrepreneurial journey of Fatou S Jallow, a pioneer in ‘Greener future’ in The Gambia. Ms Jallow runs Khan Jallow Spices, a thriving enterprise, that stands at the forefront of the organic spice industry, dedicated to eradicating chemically processed imports in favour of vibrant, locally sourced seasonings. “Our objective is to reduce the consumption of chemically made spices that are imported into the country,” she confirmed.
She went on: “This is why we provide our customers with natural spices that have great health and nutritional benefits.”
Since its inception, Khan Jallow Spices has been an active member of the SheTrades Hub for over two years, a period during which Fatou credits the hub’s extensive support for much of her company’s growth and diversification. “As a member of the hub, I have benefitted from numerous trainings that have enhanced my capacity in running a business, financial management, bookkeeping, and digital literacy,” she explains. Moreover, Khan Jallow Spices’ participation in trade fairs, supported by the hub, has not only boosted the company’s visibility but also connected it with new customers.
The SheTrades Gambia Hub is a dynamic platform dedicated to empowering women-led businesses and entrepreneurs in The Gambia. Through various initiatives, including training programmes, financial support, and networking opportunities, the hub aims to enhance the capacity and competitiveness of local enterprises, enabling them to thrive in the global market. By fostering partnerships and providing tailored support, SheTrades Gambia Hub plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth and promoting gender equality in trade.
A significant boost came when she received a grant that allowed her to purchase advanced processing equipment. Fatou remarks: “This enhanced my capacity to not just better package my products, but also boosted my production capacity which put me on the track of expansion.” This critical investment underscored the importance of support for startups in The Gambia, helping them overcome challenges to scale their operations.
Looking forward, Fatou hopes for continued support from the SheTrades hub, particularly through financial support that would allow for even greater expansion. “I hope that the Hub would facilitate study tours and exchange visits so that members of the hub can learn how businesses are being run in other countries in order that we are able to meet the standards of international markets.”
Fatou concludes by expressing profound gratitude towards the SheTrades Hub for its instrumental role in enhancing the capabilities and productivity of Khan Jallow Spices and other Gambian businesses. “I am thankful to the hub for the great support provided to us in boosting our capacity and productivity to thrive in the Gambian trade ecosystem,” she states.
Through Fatou’s inspiring story, we see the powerful impact of nurturing local talent and fostering sustainable business practices. Fatou S Jallow’s story is an example of entrepreneurial spirit, driving economic growth and environmental management in The Gambia, showcasing how local enterprises can flourish with the right support and vision.
