On Wednesday 11th November 2026, the European Union Deputy Head of Mission to the Gambia, Raphaรซl Brigandi, joined Hon. Mod K. Ceesay, the Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, The Gambia Chamber of Commerce & Industry - GCCI, business leaders, and entrepreneurs for the Private Sector Forum 2026. Supported by European Union and organised with the GCCI under the theme "Unlocking The Gambia's Economic Potential: A Dialogue on Private Sector Growth," the forum serves as a platform to reflect on feasible solutions to boost entrepreneurship and the private sector in The Gambia.
The forum laid key policy and practical foundations for business growth, addressing critical areas such as cross-border trade and regional economic integration, bridging the gap between technical skills and market demand with a focus on quality, professionalism and service delivery within the skills sector, and the impact of taxation and regulatory requirements on MSME growth and competitiveness. The EU supports this initiative through a broader project strengthening GCCI's institutional and advocacy capacity.
In his opening remarks, Deputy Head of Mission of the EU Delegation to The Gambia Raphaรซl Brigandi highlighted:
"A dynamic private sector is the engine of any growing economy and it requires bringing together all key stakeholders to define the right approaches to tackle structural challenges and unlock new opportunities. Fostering an environment where businesses can thrive, create jobs, and drive sustainable development is a priority for the government and for you the investors and entrepreneurs. It is an objective and priority we do also share as The Gambiaโs friend and partner."
GCCI President Mr. Njundu Fatty in his welcoming remarks emphasized the need to promote and invest in sectors such as Agriculture (grow and produce local and value addition), healthcare, skills development, Tourism & Hospitality. He also encouraged the need for entrepreneurs to take risks, and the Government to create an enabling business environment to promote fair competition amongst businesses. He emphasised the need for a shared vision amongst ecosystem stakeholders.
Honourable Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration & Employment Hon. Mod K. Ceesay in his official opening remarks reiterated Governmentโs acknowledgement of the private sector to be the engine of growth. He made mention of efforts currently underway and completed to promote; industrilization, digital transformation, reduce dependence on imports, investment in climate resilient infrastructure and international market access all equally factored under the recently validated Made in The Gambia Strategy Action Plan.
Since 2021, the EU has allocated โฌ193 million across multiple sectors to support The Gambia's democratic transition and sustainable economic growth.
