The event held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center, also sought to assist the private sector in the Gambia to better understand and be better prepared to meet the requirement of the calls for tenders and requests for proposal under WB Group financed projects and programmes.
Welcoming the gathering, Franklin Mutahakana, World Bank Resident Representative in The Gambia, explained that the forum is a demonstration of the One World Bank Group’s approach to supporting the development agenda in The Gambia.
He informed that during the event, different WB units and entities will be presenting their support to the private sector, enhance the collective understanding of procurement processes, foster collaboration and explore innovative approaches to achieving transparency, efficiency and sustainability and also provide useful information on how to access business opportunities under WBG financed projects and programmes.
The WB Country rep also spoke about their total commitment in terms of projects and programmes in The Gambia, which he said, is around USD 750 million for both national and regional, spanning different sectors like energy, tourism, agriculture, health, education, digital transformation, statistics and public financial management.
“While the WBG provides the financial and knowledge resources to support project implementation, the projects are owned by the Gambia and the respective institutions are responsible for the implementation of the project activities including undertaking the procurement of goods and services which are provided by the private sector.”
He noted that implementation of these projects including procurement is conducted in strict compliance with WBG policies and procedures as laid out in the financed agreement.
Thus, this workshop, he added, would provide valuable insights for companies in the Gambia to position themselves for opportunities in WB -financed projects, adding that the procurement department will guide participants on identifying business prospects, understanding bank policies and procedures, preparing compliant bids and addressing procurement grievances.
“WBG financed projects and programmes are largely driven by procurement, adding that the procurement policies, procedures and guidelines aim to promote competition, transparency and fairness. So getting it right and that the policies, procedures and guidelines are strictly adhered to is of paramount importance for effective project implementation.”
Fatou Jange, Senior Economist AID Coordination, Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs-The Gambia, on behalf of the PS at her Ministry, while expressing delight to be associated with the event, lauded WB for organising such an important session, and for the bank’s continued support and collaboration on all aspects of national development drive.
“Equally, the same applies to all for your presence and participation in this workshop. We are gathered here today with shared vision, to unlock the door to greater collaboration between the WB, private sector, CSO our local suppliers and contractors, ensuring that opportunities are not only accessible, but also equitable for all stakeholders involved.”
She underscored the importance of the forum, pointing out that it presents a unique opportunity to enhance our business environment and strengthen the capabilities of our local firms for a better understanding and engagement with the WB procurement.
Jange reminded that WB Country Partnership Framework (CPF) 2022-2026, focus areas include committed to strengthening transparency, accountability and efficiency in procurement which is pivotal in the promotion of trust and sustainable growth.
She expressed optimism that the outcome of the forum would serve a useful purpose in achieving transparency and efficiency in the project’s implementation.
“We therefore, look forward to continued collaboration with the WB, private sector and CSOs and assure you all that our doors are fully open for your interventions within the framework of our development plans. It is your engagement that will drive the change we seek and together we can build a more resilient and dynamic business environment in The Gambia.”
The day’s session witnessed presentations of the thematic areas crucial in the work of the bank and how CSO’s and private sector could harness existing opportunities for growth.
