Gambiaj.com – (Banjul, The Gambia) – President Adama Barrow has reiterated his administration’s commitment to positioning The Gambia as a public-private partnership (PPP)–driven economy, describing PPPs as central to Africa’s sustainable development agenda. He made the remarks while presiding over the 7th Financial Afrik Awards, a high-profile gathering of policymakers, financiers, and business leaders from across the continent.
Launched in 2018, the Financial Afrik Awards has evolved into a flagship event on Africa’s financial and economic calendar, providing a platform to examine the continent’s economic transformation and recognize individuals and institutions driving change.
Chair of the Financial Afrik Awards, Fazila Dahall, said the event celebrates courage, vision, and leadership, noting that it honors those who choose to invest and lead even amid uncertainty.
Speaking at the event, President Barrow underscored the role of PPPs in delivering infrastructure and accelerating inclusive growth, pledging that his government will continue reforms aimed at making The Gambia an attractive destination for private investment.
He added that sustained collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential to unlocking Africa’s development potential.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Gambia Investment and Export Promotion Agency (GIEPA), Ousmane Senghor, described the moment as critical for Africa’s economic future. He emphasized the need for innovative, impact-driven financial initiatives and said GIEPA views investment as a long-term seed that yields jobs, innovation, and shared prosperity.
Senghor called for transforming financial institutions into engines of industrialization, digital advancement, climate resilience, and inclusive growth.
Private sector leaders echoed the call. Alaji Sanyang, CEO of Cornerstone Group, a Gambian-owned firm specializing in construction, property management, and sustainable energy, said The Gambia is “ready and serious for business.” He cited safety, business friendliness, and supporting infrastructure as key determinants for investors, pointing to international rankings that place The Gambia among Africa’s safest countries.
Social entrepreneur and global youth advocate Thione Niang urged African leaders to prioritize building strong domestic private sectors capable of creating jobs and value. He called for deliberate efforts to cultivate homegrown champions across countries, arguing that African control of African economies is essential to restoring dignity and accelerating development.
In his keynote address, President Barrow also highlighted the growing partnership between Africa and the Arab world, noting shared historical ties and complementary strengths.
He said Africa offers a young and dynamic population, while the Arab world brings capital, expertise, and global connectivity—an alignment that can translate into concrete, implementable investments.
The ceremony was followed by panel discussions on thematic areas focused on boosting Africa’s economy through partnerships and investments. The event is set to conclude with the presentation of awards to the “100 Who Transformed Africa,” recognizing outstanding contributions to economic progress across the continent.
