Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – In a bid to address the challenges facing The Gambia’s tourism sector, the Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment, Hon. Baboucarr O. Joof, today welcomed the Minister of Tourism and Culture, Hon. Abdoulie Jobe, and the executive members of The Gambia Hotels Association to his office in Banjul.

During the meeting, Hon. Jobe and his team outlined several issues confronting hoteliers and tour operators, emphasizing the importance of a unified approach to developing The Gambia’s tourism industry. Hon. Jobe highlighted the meeting’s significance, noting that both ministries are pivotal to the sector’s growth and advancement.

“Tourism creates many job opportunities for Gambians, especially for our women and youths. We need to come together as key players in the industry and make it the best for our people,” stated Hon. Jobe. He further acknowledged the severe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the tourism sector and called for collective efforts to restore the industry’s vitality.

Hon. Jobe assured the executive members of The Gambia Hotels Association of his ministry’s unwavering support to enhance the sector’s vibrancy and reliability.

In response, Hon. Joof expressed gratitude for the visit and reaffirmed his ministry’s dedication to fostering economic growth across all industries, including tourism. “I am honored for the visit, and as the Minister responsible for Trade and Industry, I will do my best to ensure that industries continue to grow, including the hotel industry, for the economic benefits of The Gambia,” he said.

The meeting also saw contributions from Abubacarr S. Camara, Director General of the Gambia Tourism Board, and Hayat Blell, President of The Gambia Hotels Association, who echoed the call for increased collaboration and support to strengthen the tourism sector.

The discussion marks a significant step towards revitalizing The Gambia’s tourism industry, highlighting the commitment of both ministries to work together in overcoming challenges and driving economic development.