The event was held at Coco Ocean Hotel from 25-27 August 2023.
The comprehensive program aimed to explore the potential of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in driving infrastructure development within The Gambia. The masterclass spanned two days and successfully convened high-ranking ministers, the Governor of the Central Bank, and other senior-level participants from diverse sectors.
The event's opening was marked by a welcome dinner that provided participants the opportunity to connect. The keynote address by Mr. Edi Jobe, Chairperson of GCCI, set the tone for the subsequent sessions, which embraced an interactive approach:
The day also featured introduction and Overview of PPPs by Mr. Abdoulie Touray, establishing a PPP Framework presented by Mr. Ebrima Faal, fostering discussions on effective partnership structures as well as project identification and PPP Screening which was followed by appraising PPP projects, all presented by experts Mr. Faal and Mr. Deen, and encouraging lively case study discussions.
- The day continued with insightful sessions, including a diagnostic assessment of The Gambia’s Transport Sector by Prof. I Fannah and a presentation on PPP Financing Models by Mr. M. Manjang.
The second day continued to fuel engagement, featuring a recap of Day 1, and addressing further critical topics: Operations and Hand Back, shedding light on the lifecycle of PPP projects, Dr. Gajijo's presentation on Asset Recycling and the Sene-Gambia Bridge offered a platform for spirited discussions on maximising existing assets.
The day concluded with a standout group case study exercise, enabling participants to explore potential PPP opportunities within The Gambia.
Key takeaways and call for continued training: The masterclass generated remarkable enthusiasm among participants, with many voicing their strong desire for continued training and engagement in the realm of PPPs and asset recycling. The interactive approach of the sessions, particularly the group case studies, was met with acclaim, fostering active participation and deep understanding of practical applications. This call for further training reflects the participants' recognition of the significance of PPPs in driving Gambia's sustainable economic growth.
Recommendations for ongoing progress: The participants' clamour for continued training underscores the need for sustained efforts in this domain. As an immediate step, it is advised that SEE, DPUK, and GCCI collaborate to develop a series of specialised workshops and seminars. These offerings should cater for varying levels of expertise and delve into nuanced aspects of PPPs, asset recycling, and infrastructure development. By ensuring that these sessions remain interactive and practical, the organisers can sustain the momentum generated by the masterclass.
Closing Remarks: The masterclass concluded with a sense of accomplishment and renewed commitment. Mr. Abdoulie Touray, in his closing remarks, expressed his gratitude to all participants, facilitators, and partners for contributing to the success of the event. He emphasised that the resonating call for continued training is a testament to the program's impact and the shared determination to elevate The Gambia's development trajectory.
In conclusion, the Public Private Partnership Masterclass not only provided a comprehensive platform for high-level discussions and knowledge sharing but also sparked a genuine desire for ongoing learning and engagement. The event's interactive approach, coupled with the impactful group case studies, positions it as a catalyst for lasting transformation in infrastructure development and economic growth in The Gambia.
