By Lama Jallow
Information Officer, MOYS
Twenty-nine young Gambian entrepreneurs — 11 women and 18 men —each received a Ministry supporting grant of fifty thousand dalasis (GMD 50,000), totaling one million four hundred and fifty thousand dalasis (GMD 1,450,000).
This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Youth and Sports and facilitated by the National Enterprise Development Initiative (NEDI), marked a pivotal moment in the Ministry’s efforts to foster innovation and economic growth.
The beneficiaries were from diverse sectors, including agriculture, value chain development, tailoring, welding and fabrication, electrical installation, fishery, and general merchandise they gathered at the NEDI Office in Kanifing to receive their cheques and materials. This event celebrated not only their achievements but also their potential to drive change and economic development within their communities.
Honorable Bakary Y. Badjie, Minister of Youth and Sports in his address at the ceremony, underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to supporting young entrepreneurs. “This initiative is a testament to our dedication to empowering young people and providing them with the necessary resources to succeed,” he stated while adding that “By investing in our youth, we are investing in the economic future of The Gambia.”
Mr. Badjie highlighted the critical role of entrepreneurship in economic development, emphasizing that these grants are more than just financial assistance; they are an investment in the country’s young entrepreneurs.
He, therefore, encouraged the beneficiaries to be dedicated and disciplined in managing their small businesses as they grow in their respective fields.
Mr. Sanna Bah, Chairperson of the NEDI Board of Directors, spoke about the transformative potential of such initiatives. He noted that the diversity of the sectors represented by the beneficiaries reflects the broad spectrum of talent and innovation present among Gambian youth.
“These young entrepreneurs are not just beneficiaries of the grants; they are pioneers who will lead their sectors into new era of development and growth,” he said.
Mam Lissa Camara, General Manager of NEDI, expressed her pride in the beneficiaries and confidence in their abilities to make significant contributions to the economy. “NEDI is committed to providing ongoing support and mentorship to these entrepreneurs. Today is another testament of the journey, and we are here to walk alongside every step of the way,”
Isatou Ndow, on behalf of the beneficiaries, expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Youth and Sports and government for supporting their dream of becoming entrepreneurs. She promised their readiness to support each other in their business development journey.
