Lamin Kujabi
The Gambia played host to the Forum of Operators to Guarantee Economic Emergency in Africa (FOGECA) economic and investment forum from 31st January to 1st February 2025.
The forum was graced by a broad spectrum of participants including business leaders, innovators, and policymakers.
Presiding over the opening ceremony at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, President Adama Barrow said the forum provided opportunity to examine the possibilities of setting in motion a profoundly impactful economic and social transformation process in The Gambia and across the African continent, and that with the critical themes on trade, investment, and integration, it represents a strategic pillar to pursue national and regional aspirations.
The Gambian leader informed the gathering that over the years, The Gambia has embarked on transformative reforms to reposition the nation as a trade and investment hub. “Our strategic partnerships with international organisations illustrate a guided commitment to unlocking new avenues for financial and economic growth. Among many others, such partners include the Organisation of Islamic Conference, the Islamic Development Bank, the IMF, World Bank, and the African Development Bank,” he stated.
He expressed confidence that the country’s association with such bodies and membership in frameworks like OHADA will propel it further, and help it integrate into a vast market with harmonised regulations and robust legal protections.
He made reference to The Gambia Government’s creation of GiEPA to address and facilitate matters relating to investment, export, and MSMEs development. “We are now reviewing its Statutory Act to properly align it with its mission but, importantly as well, with the vision of enhancing manufacturing and agricultural productivity that would create jobs and secure livelihood through competitive government support and incentives,” he informed.
The President expressed hope that this was a moment to forge pathways that would define economic circumstances, not only for the coming years but also for successive generations to come.
“We are all united by the common vision of an Africa that thrives, innovates, and able to compete on the global stage. This is imperative, as the world struggles in tackling trade deficits, amid the daunting competition for Africa’s resources,” he asserted.
He further encouraged the forum to be guided by the vision of creating industries that employ thousands, building infrastructure that connects millions, and fostering an environment where innovation and entrepreneurship thrive. All these, he added, should be conceived within the context of a resilient African society where we succeed as a united people of diverse colours but from the same continent.
President Barrow acknowledged that the forum also underscores the need for broader and stronger partner collaboration among us. “Whether it is through harnessing the economic opportunities in energy and infrastructure, or unlocking the potential of women to drive growth, or through other avenues, it is certain that our strength and success considerably depend on unity and cooperation, strengthened by a shared sense of purpose,” he pointed.
“Let us move forward with courage, determination, and an unwavering belief in our collective potential to excel. In addition, let this forum be remembered as a turning point and a moment when aspirations became actions, leading to extraordinary achievements,” he concluded.
