The inauguration graced by the first lady, senior government officials, Senegalese dignitaries, among others, was described as good bilateral relationship between the two nations.
Momodou Sidibeh, deputy director Ministry of Fisheries said the establishment of the new fish processing plant in the community will help reduce the ongoing post-harvest loss of fish.
He added that the post-harvest loss of fish is due to insufficient cool storage facilities at landing sites and therefore created scarcity and price increase in fish.
He stated that the fisheries sector contributes about 13% to the nation’s GDP thereby creating formal and informal employment opportunities for citizens.
“The government is prepared to create an enabling environment where fishing activities can be a source of economic benefit to the country and her people”, he added.
He noted that his ministry has partnered with EU to facilitate surveillance on illegal fishing vessels in order to avoid huge economic loss from the sector.
Basirou Sane, Senegalese Ambassador to The Gambia said the inauguration of the fish processing company owned by a Senegalese businessman shows the already existing bilateral relationship between the two countries.
He said the factory that only employs Gambians would no doubt contribute in reducing unemployment among young people and also add to the development of the country.
He advised Senegalese citizens living in the country to be law abiding.
Malick Basse, CEO of the company thanked Gambia government and Tanjai for allowing him establish the fish processing plant in the country.
Fatoumata Bah Barrow in her inaugural speech said the facility would help increase women participation in the fisheries sector, adding that the fisheries sector employs a significant number of women.
