DPS Amie Drammeh highlighted the sector’s role in economic growth: “The creative industries are one of the most dynamic sectors of the global economy, offering boundless opportunities for innovation, youth employment, and cultural promotion,” she added.
In The Gambia, she expressed, “our music, film, fashion, crafts, and other creative expressions not only showcase our unique identity but also serve as a powerful driver of entrepreneurship and sustainable development.”
ITC country representative, Yusupha Keita, emphasised the sector’s global potential and need for collaboration.
He added that from fashion and design to music, crafts, and digital arts, The Gambia holds immense potential. “But to translate this into growth and jobs, government, private sector, development partners, and creators must work together for development and growth.
He further reiterated that ITC initiatives supported by the EU include a new tailoring and embroidery curriculum, specialist training, a cultural centre, music and sound production capacity building, five flagship festivals, and support for over 500 MSMEs.
CEO of The Gambia Investment & Export Promotion Agency (GiEPA), Ousainou Senghore, underscored the importance of partnerships in driving investment.
“This gathering is not just another meeting; it is a consultative process bringing together all stakeholders for a unified voice and action. Together with ITC, we have built capacities, developed strategies, and opened doors of opportunity for Gambian entrepreneurs and investors. GiEPA remains committed to making The Gambia a resilient hub for trade and innovation,” he said.
He noted that organisers expressed confidence that the dialogue would transform the creative sector into a driver of inclusive growth.
“This dialogue,” he said, marks a new chapter in ensuring that creativity becomes not only a source of identity and pride but also a source of prosperity and jobs for our people.”
The workshop concluded with technical consultations aimed at turning ideas into actionable strategies for The Gambia’s creative economy and investment agenda.
