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Trade minister addresses GTU maiden congress

Dec 2, 2024, 10:05 AM | Article By: Abdoulie Nyockeh

The minister for Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, Babucarr Ousmaila Joof addressed the maiden congress of the General Transport Union (GTU) over the weekend.

He highlighted the vital role and responsibility drivers play in the economic development of The Gambia.

He described the moment as unique in the annals history of the GTU, noting trade cannot move forward in the absence of transport.

He reiterated that one of the strongest pillars of trade is logistics, adding that “we consider transport unions as our partners and they play an important role in our society and in our economic development.”

“Whatever we do, at the end of the day transport must be part of it.”

“This shows the importance of drivers in our society,” he pointed out, while applauding the president of the GTU, Omar Ceesay for being a very hard working and committed person in seeing the advancement of the drivers.

“I have travelled with the president of the GTU Mr. Omar Ceesay to many places, but anytime the issue of transport is raised, Mr. Ceesay is ever ready to participate in that discussion.”

He advised the members of the union to show more commitment, collaboration and unity to ensure their own wellbeing.

President Omar Ceesay described the maiden congress as another milestone achievement registered under his tenure.

He therefore applauded every member of the union for their strong commitment and dedication towards the development of the union.

According to Mr. Ceesay, transport is the wheel of the national economy, citing that the country cannot survive without the presence of drivers. “I am convinced that when the drivers have a decent work and well paid job, the accidents in the country will reduce,” he opined.