President Adama Barrow has called on fellow Gambians to exploit the business environment in the country and make good use of it.
Mr Barrow was speaking during the swearing-in of the new minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, Seedy Keita at the State House.
“Consistent with my vision of a unified and prosperous Gambia, I call on all Gambian citizens to exploit the business environment in the country and make good use of it so that, together, we can achieve our noble goals. Let us acknowledge the private sector as the engine of economic growth.
“With this precept on our minds, we can break new grounds by embracing agriculture as a business venture, investing more in the growth sectors, such as Fisheries, and by widening the scope of the service sectors. Such attitudes will boost investment in industrial development, broaden trade opportunities, diversify involvement in the trade sector and lower the unemployment and dependency rate,” he said.
“All these are possible, however, only if we continue to live in peace and stability. As a result, let our diversity be the source of strength and cooperation for closer relationships. We are one people; so, let us come together, and remain united as a nation. I am happy to associate myself with the opening remarks of the Secretary to Cabinet to welcome you all to witness the swearing-in of Mr. Seedy Keita as Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment.
“Honourable Keita’s appointment is prompted by his track record as a professional with a wealth of knowledge, experience and exposure, both nationally and internationally. It is expected that all these will contribute immensely to the on-going reform and transformation of the important sector he will now lead. It is a critical sector for development, as it has to create and maintain the necessary platforms for public-private sector interface and productivity. I congratulate Honourable Keita on his appointment, and wish him success,” he added.
According to him, this is an era of transition that calls for change in the nation, adding: “we know, however, that instituting change is never an easy task. It is bound to be resisted, but with the right approach, right policies, relevant knowledge and experience, creative thinking and bringing out the best in the people and our institutions, we can succeed and transform the country positively.”
He continued: “I am confident that the appointment of Honourable Keita will add value to the great work that has been going on to enhance trade and industrial development, as well as creating employment and promoting regional integration for economic growth. The task at hand is not an easy one, but it is expected that, working with his team and all relevant stakeholders and partners, he will assume leadership to guide the sector to stir economic growth with active private sector engagement.”
