By Kemo Kanyi
Information minister Dr. Ismaila Ceesay has informed the media in a press conference that some OIC member countries have shown interest in investing in The Gambia.
The press conference was held at the Sir DawdaKairaba Jawara International Conference Centre on Tuesday.
The minister revealed that the final communique of the OIC implored member states to invest within the organization to economically empower middle-income countries.
Responding to a question about Gambia’s anticipation of this investment opportunity, Dr. Ceesay categorically said that there is no doubt that the country will benefit from member states’ investment.
“Many countries came forward to express interest in investing in The Gambia. Investors want predictability. Investors want to have confidence in a country and its market. What gives that confidence is the peace and stability of that country. Well, in proving to the world, we need to make sure Gambia is stable and peaceful not only in a short time but also for any foreseeable future,” he stated.
“Before an investor comes and invests US$10 billion in a country, he or she must be sure that his or her money is safe. So, Gambia, through maintaining peace and having a peace outlook in the long term as indicated on every other international index that looks at peace, shows that Gambia is an attractive destination for foreign direct investment. So, we have no doubt that Gambia will benefit from this,” he added.
He explained that The Gambia is also awaiting to benefit from the US$253 billion that the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) is set to allocate to OIC low-income countries as announced by the President.
Dr. Ceesay expressed Gambia’s readiness and preparedness to take part in the global supply chain for economic gains and employment creation.
“One of the important aspects of the global supply chain is to provide mechanisms to ensure that consumers have access to goods and services. Gambia is doing well in that part. As you know, currently, Gambia is investing heavily in expanding port landing sites, but also building a deep-sea port at Sanyangvillage. That will also help in enhancing our participation in ensuring that Gambia becomes a hotspot on the African continent for the movement of goods and services, particularly from the African continent to Latin America to Europe and Asia,” the information minister added.
OIC has called on member states to work for economic independence and job creation for its citizens.
