Governor Saidy emphasised that the workshop would validate vision, strategic pillars, imperative initiatives, and a roadmap that would ensure the national payment strategy is inclusive, practical, and successfully implemented.
“I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy for your unwavering support of this important agenda,” he said. He further extended appreciation to all participants for their dedication and commitment, noting that each has been entrusted with a critical role in shaping the future of payments in The Gambia.
The Governor urged stakeholders to work “with vigour, dedication and focus to build a payments ecosystem that drives growth, deepens inclusion, supports innovation and enhances the lives of all Gambians”.
He also recalled the Wadi Project, explaining that the strategic development emerged from assessments conducted by KPMG and was later discussed with the World Bank. Initially, he noted, the project was outside the budget submission, but its importance became clear during the evaluation process.
The workshop would set the foundation for a modern, inclusive, and innovative payment ecosystem that would strengthen financial services and support economic growth across the nation.
Lamin Jabbie, the Minister for Communication and Digital Economy, underscored the importance of the workshop, highlighting its role in advancing digital innovation and strengthening the country’s technological capacity.
The workshop brought together stakeholders from the government, private sector, and academia to discuss strategies for enhancing digital infrastructure and fostering economic growth through technology.
Minister Jabbie emphasised that such initiatives are vital for equipping young people with digital skills and ensuring The Gambia remains competitive in the global digital economy.
Sam Aluko, Partner in Technology and Digital Economy at KPMG, lauded the initiative, emphasising its role in fostering collaboration between public and private sectors to accelerate digital transformation across the region.
He noted that such platforms are vital for shaping policies and building resilient digital infrastructure that can drive inclusive growth.
Similarly, Sering Omar Lowe, Project Coordinator of WARDP, highlighted the forum’s importance in strengthening regional integration.
He stressed that the discussions and partnerships forged during the event will contribute significantly to advancing West Africa’s digital economy and ensuring that no country is left behind in the global digital shift.
Their commendations underscore the forum’s growing relevance as a hub for innovation, policy dialogue, and strategic cooperation in the digital space.
