Gambiaj.com – BANJUL, The Gambia — In a landmark step toward empowering marginalized groups, The Gambia, in partnership with the African Development Bank (AfDB), has launched a $14.7 million project aimed at building self-reliance for vulnerable youth and women across the nation. The Vulnerable Youth and Women Support Project, unveiled on October 22 in Banjul, promises to provide skills training, entrepreneurial resources, and improved access to essential health and social services, potentially transforming the lives of thousands in rural communities.

The project, set to run through June 2027, will deliver vocational training tailored to equip young people and women with skills aligned with the agriculture and agribusiness sectors. In addition to hands-on training, the project will support emerging entrepreneurs by providing necessary equipment, market access, and coaching services.

Through these initiatives, 1,000 young and female entrepreneurs will be equipped to launch sustainable businesses, contributing to job creation and economic stability in their communities. Additionally, health facilities in targeted regions will be rehabilitated to ensure the beneficiaries have access to essential health services.

The funding for the project comprises a $6.65 million grant from the African Development Fund, AfDB’s concessional window, supplemented by contributions of $7.12 million from the MRC Holland Foundation and $930,000 from the Gambian government. This robust financial backing reflects a deep commitment to fostering resilience in vulnerable communities, where 93.8 percent of rural households face severe economic insecurity.

Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Welfare, Hon. Fatou Kinteh, representing Vice President Mohammed B.S. Jallow at the launch, highlighted the government’s dedication to supporting those disproportionately affected by social and economic hardships.

“Today marks an important milestone in our journey toward a more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous Gambia,” Kinteh said. “The Vulnerable Youth and Women Support Project is a game-changing initiative that aims to uplift those facing the highest barriers to opportunity in our country.”

Through this initiative, The Gambia and the AfDB are prioritizing regions most in need: Janjanbureh, Kuntaur, and Basse, which have been identified as among the country’s most vulnerable areas. The project will directly impact 2,500 youth and women, with broader social and health benefits anticipated to reach over 82,000 people, half of whom are women.

Dr. Joseph Ribeiro, AfDB’s Country Manager for The Gambia and Deputy Director General for West Africa, joined the launch virtually, reiterating the Bank’s commitment to fostering sustainable development that leaves no one behind.

“Our mission is to spur sustainable economic development and social progress across our continent,” Ribeiro stated. “True development is achieved when opportunities reach every young person striving for a better future and every woman aspiring to make a difference in her community.”

Since beginning operations in The Gambia in 1974, AfDB has committed over $456 million to public sector infrastructure projects across key sectors such as agriculture, energy, transport, and health. This latest initiative underlines the Bank’s ongoing investment in grassroots social empowerment and economic inclusion.

By promoting entrepreneurship, bolstering healthcare, and supporting social resilience, the Vulnerable Youth and Women Support Project marks a significant milestone in The Gambia’s National Development Plan, aiming to reduce economic vulnerabilities and lay the groundwork for sustainable development.