‘Women-led businesses are powerful drivers of economic growth’

Baboucarr O. Joof was speaking during the launch of the Private Sector Coalition designed to advance gender equality and public procurement guide to support MSMEs. The launch ceremony was held at the International Trade Centre office in Bakau recently.

Minister Joof, however, acknowledged that access to public procurement opportunities has often been limited due to various challenges, including regulatory barriers, lack of awareness and financial constraints.

While describing the launch as timely, the Trade Minister maintained that the private sector is critical in the development of any nation, further highlighting the need for collaboration and partnerships to enhance optimal output.

Thus, he hailed the launch of the initiative as timely as the Gambia Public Procurement Act (GPPA) was amended in 2022 and the regulations Gazetted in 2024.

He mentioned that this moment presents a golden opportunity for women-led businesses to harness the benefits of public procurement, thus reinforcing their commitment to fostering economic empowerment and inclusivity.

"I must acknowledge the immense efforts and contributions of one of the key partners of the SheTrades Gambia Hub and my ministry; the Women’s Business Advocacy Group (WBAG) with its secretariat at the GCCI," he mentioned.

He further said these women groups have been very instrumental in the gains in women empowerment especially on gender responsive public procurement and we look forward to building on the gains made thus far.

"By launching this guide in commemoration of International Women’s Day 2025, it reaffirms and demonstrates the commitment of the Government of The Gambia particularly my Ministry in advancing gender equality in economic development by enhancing opportunities for women entrepreneurs to access government contracts and promoting inclusive and sustainable development," he stated.

The development of this guide, he added, is in line with the private sector and trade priorities in the Recovery Focused National Development Plan.

Speaking at the event, Ndey Rose Sarr, UNFPA country representative to The Gambia also acknowledged the crucial role businesses play not just in providing life-saving healthcare, but in creating economic opportunities that empower women to reach their full potential.

"By championing women's health and rights, and by strategically investing in women-led businesses, we are co-creating a future where communities are not only stronger and more resilient, but where businesses themselves thrive in a truly sustainable and equitable ecosystem," she said.

This campaign, she added, is a testament to their collective vision to see " a world where every woman has access to the quality healthcare she deserves, where women-owned businesses flourish, and where the private sector stands as a powerful force for good, building an inclusive and just society for all, " she noted.

These Guidelines on Procurement, observed, are not simply suggestions but that they are a roadmap for action.