By: Fatoumatta krubally
Farimang Saho, president of the Association of Gambian Manufacturers (AGM) raised a critical question about the nation’s readiness to capitalize on the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
“You cannot say you’re going to run a Ferrari when you cannot even drive,” he stated, emphasizing the urgent need for proper infrastructure and skilled personnel to support trade initiatives. He further illustrated his point by saying, “You cannot invite someone to come in your house while the person can’t even crawl,” he said in a recent interview,
AGOA, established in 2000, aims to enhance trade and economic relations between the United States and eligible Sub-Saharan African countries. It provides duty-free access to the U.S. market for thousands of products, presenting a significant opportunity for countries like Gambia. However, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Despite the potential benefits, Gambia has not fully leveraged AGOA to its advantage.
Saho highlighted the stark contrast between Gambia and countries like Morocco, which have developed robust infrastructures and trading capabilities. “If you look at Morocco, they have the right factories, the right people, and the necessary infrastructure to support their trade,” he noted. In comparison, Gambia struggles with inadequate facilities, limited access to resources, and logistical challenges that hinder its ability to compete in the global market.
He pointed out that the country must first address its internal capabilities before expecting external support. “What do we have? What data do we have? What skills do we have?” he asked, stressing the importance of self-assessment and development before attempting to engage in international trade. Without the right factories and skilled workforce, Gambia risks missing out on the benefits that AGOA could bring.
Moreover, Saho raised a pertinent question about the role of the United States in this scenario. “How can America invite us to participate in this trade initiative without helping us develop the necessary infrastructure and skills?” This question underscores the need for a more supportive approach from the U.S. that goes beyond mere invitations to trade. It calls for a partnership that includes investment in capacity building and development programs to ensure that countries like Gambia can truly benefit from such opportunities.
The message is clear. For Gambia to benefit from AGOA, it must invest in its infrastructure, enhance its workforce skills, and create an environment conducive to trade. As Farimang Saho aptly put it, “We need to be ready before we invite others in.” The time for action is now if Gambia hopes to seize the opportunities that lie ahead in the realm of international trade. Only through strategic development and international collaboration can Gambia hope to transform its potential into tangible benefits for its economy and its people.