Also known as the Smiling Coast of Africa, it is widely said that every smile on the local faces is genuine.
It is important to state here that as part of a broader move to attract more visitors to our shores, The Gambia continues to put in place measures, all geared towards making the country an interesting spot to visit.
From its incredible natural landscape, ethnic diversity, religious tolerance and amazing local cuisine, there is even more to exploit.
With countless hotels, spas, and picturesque scenery dotted along the coastlines, the country also boasts over 500 different bird species in which nature lovers would want to explore.
With countless talents from local carpentry shops; artistry and other decorative stars, The Gambia has indeed all what it takes to compete with even other established destinations.
At a recent Public-Private Dialogue on Trade and Investment Policy for Tourism and Creative Industries being staged by the International Trade Centre (ITC) through its Youth Empowerment Project (YEP), the main focus was promoting ‘Made in The Gambia' brands. This initiative is part of efforts designed to address regulatory bottlenecks, and develop investment profiles for the sector.
It is high time we promote our own Gambian talents to be able to attract tourist arrival numbers. We have to be mindful that the tourism industry is a competitive sector and if we slumber or relent, other countries are going to seize the opportunity by exploiting their skills.
This meeting, therefore, couldn't have happened at a better time than now, when the officials are exploring avenues to make the spot a year-round destination.
It is true that Gambians are full of potential and skills. This is even seen on visit to some of the tourism development sites in the country.
From small businesses to other established agents, the number of Gambian creative talents exploiting the sector is amazing.
The Ministry just has to render them support along the way to be able to harness their potential. From local artists to other handicrafts, the talents in the industry are yet to be exploited.
And this is all geared towards meeting customer satisfaction. Indeed, The Gambia’s aspirations for tourism development not only include increasing the number of tourists but also creating opportunities for young talents to be able to make and benefit from the sector.
As the destination continues its rebranding by fusing new exciting features, one thing for certain is that the Smiling Coast continues to pride itself as a number one tourist spot for visitors keen to explore Africa’s incredible nature and culture in a safe and friendly setting.
We therefore commend the Ministry Tourism and Creative Industries and all its partners such as the International Trade Centre (ITC) through its Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) for the bold move. This meeting was long overdue in view of its importance to the development of the country’s sector.