By Tabora Bojang
President Adama Barrow has said the emerging strong emphasis on agri-businesses is estimated to cut down about D250 million (US$50 million) on rice importation in the country.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of 14th Gambia international trade fair at the Independence Stadium, Bakau, yesterday, the president said with the proper investment in agriculture, Gambians would “eat what we grow”, referencing the well-hashed mantra of former president, Yahya Jammeh.
He said the government has recognised the private sector as the engine of growth.
“From this point of view, we invite all private sector actors to take up the challenge and responsibility of ensuring a thriving private sector, in order to make The Gambia a progressive country for all,” Barrow stated.
The president hailed the special contribution of the GCCI and its keen sense of responsibility in complementing the government’s efforts with the Businesses Against Covid-19 by raising D20 million as well as support rendered to the prisons service, the sanatorium and other health facilities sector among others.
According to President Barrow his government has amply demonstrated commitment to building partnership with the private sector, saying an effective public-private sector partnership leads to sustainable and inclusive growth through employment creation, revenue -generation and enhancement of livelihoods.
