The Gambia Youth Chamber of Commerce (GYCC) has celebrated its 10th anniversary with the second edition of the Youth in Business Awards, recognising young Gambian entrepreneurs for innovation, resilience and contribution to national development.
The ceremony was held on Friday, 16 October 2026, at Kairaba Beach Hotel under the theme “Recognising Excellence. Inspiring Innovation. Building the Future.”
It brought together government officials, Chinese Embassy representatives, development partners, private sector actors and young entrepreneurs.
Speaking at the event, GYCC leader Modou Lamin Gassama highlighted the Chamber’s decade-long commitment to promoting youth entrepreneurship, strengthening SMEs and creating business opportunities across The Gambia.
Gassama commended the Chinese Embassy for its partnership, noting that the awards provide a platform to recognise outstanding young business owners and encourage innovation. This year’s categories included green economy and migration, reflecting the importance of environmental sustainability and reintegration of returning migrants.
Representing the government, Minister of Trade Mod Ceesay reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting youth-led businesses and urged young people to lead economic growth and job creation.
A representative of the Chinese Embassy emphasised China-Gambia cooperation in expanding trade, investment, skills development and market access for young entrepreneurs, highlighting success stories of previous award recipients who used financial support and training to expand production and create jobs.
The event also marked 10 years since the establishment of GYCC and 10 years since the resumption of diplomatic relations between China and The Gambia.
The awards reaffirmed the importance of partnerships among government, development institutions and the private sector in empowering young Gambians and building a more inclusive and sustainable economy.
