Lamin Dampha, permanent secretary at the ministry of trade and regional integration, has praised the private sector as the country’s engine of growth.

Mr Damoha made the statement at a townhall meeting organised by the Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) held at the International Conference Centre in Bijilo.

“My ministry recognises the private sector as a key partner in development which drives sustainable economy growth by bringing its opportunities in value creation being a major contributor to the national economy principal job creator.

“We also recognise their role in creating and deepening in intra rural-urban and national trade on the continent. 

“In our all-policies private sector has been considered as the engine of economy growth and therefore, there role in policy formulation and implementation is critical in advancing their contribution to national growth.

“Because if you formulate policies and those policies are not able to improve the environment, you will not be able to achieve what you want,” he said. 

Dampha continued: “If business people are not going to be employing people, livelihood would not be able to enhance, and that means we at the policy level are failing. 

“That’s why it’s very important for me to be here for me to share what we do at the level of the ministry and encourage you to continue with this kind of dialogue.

“It’s important because without dialogue you will not be able to build a consensus on issues that are inhibiting your business growth.

“GCCI has been an outstanding partner to the government of The Gambia in pursuing our economic developments by improving the local business environment and strengthening business communities through advocacy that works in a dialogue.”

Reporting by Adama Makasuba