#National News

GYCC, GWCC launch 4th agribusiness, tourism trade fair

Jun 14, 2022, 12:36 PM | Article By: Makutu Manneh

The Gambia Youth Chamber of Commerce (GYCC) recently launched its 4th Agribusiness and Tourism Trade Fair at Madiba Mall in Brufut Taf.

The trade fair seeks to mobilise and improve the lives of young Gambian entrepreneurs by giving them a voice. GYCC in the past has created market space by organising regional exhibitions, training, mentorship programs and soft skills for young entrepreneurs by supporting them to become successful entrepreneurs.

Also, GWCC is a non-profit member driven organisation that seeks to facilitate business development and trade for Gambian women with a view to providing opportunities and visibility to women in business. It also aims to educate, mentor and promote women’s businesses, thereby fostering meaningful relationships amongst its members.

Welcoming the gathering, Mustapha Njie, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TAF Global, reminded that youth are the active segment and form majority in The Gambia like most countries in Africa and even beyond.

TAF made reference to his group which is a youth dominated one, saying youth are key in any policy development.

Nelly Taylor, board treasurer of Gambia Women Chamber of Commerce in deputising for the president of GWCC, hinted on their challenges last year during the campaign period and shortage of fuel in the country, pointing out that it the result of not attracting people to the trade fair.

She called on women and youth to come forth and support their initiatives in showcasing Gambian products.

Ismaila Sambou, president of Gambia Youth Chamber of Commerce, said the trade fair is created to ensure access to necessities, which he said, would help in building durable economy in the country post covid-19 recovery efforts.

He reminded that the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine also created another shortage in manufacturing inputs and even food supplies.

The trade fair, he added, would contribute to the economic development of local businesses especially migrant returnees as well as promoting the concept of ‘Tekifi’ and tourism.