The trade fair for young women and men in The Gambia’s agricultural and tourism sector is an important stage and networking venue. The Gambian-German Advisory Centre supported entrepreneurs with their presentation.

More than 350 young entrepreneurs presented their services and products at the latest trade fair in The Gambia organised by the Gambia Youth Chamber of Commerce. 60 per cent of the participants were women. The trade fair took place in Sukuta in Western Gambia, which is the country’s tourist region. Hundreds of guests admired the jewellery, craft pieces, cosmetics and electronic products on display. They tasted various dishes and asked questions about services. The trade fair was more than just a marketplace. It offered an opportunity to make contact with national and international companies and to network with like-minded people.

The trade fair as a way to expand business

Mutarr is also a returnee to The Gambia. The 29-year-old used his stand to sell building components such as fittings, wires, cables, screws and sanitary pipes as well as electrical products including satellite dishes and receivers. Mutarr also marketed his services in addition to his products: he installs satellite dishes. “The construction and agricultural industries in The Gambia offer huge potential. That’s why I’m concentrating on them”, he said.

The trade fair motivated Mutarr to expand his business. He’d now like to both export and import building components in the future. He never dreamt before the trade fair that his stand would be so successful. There was a high level of interest among visitors. “This is the first time I was given support from the GGAC. It couldn’t have gone better”, he said.

Talking face to face with customers

Another participant at the trade fair was 27-year-old Kaddyjatou. She runs a digital marketing agency and creates content for small and medium-sized companies. She also helps them to reach customers via social media platforms. Here, it's important to communicate in the right way.

Kaddyjatou used her stand to advertise her services and consultancy. This meant she could get into conversation with people face to face and explain the advantages of digital marketing.

Promoting the economy in The Gambia

One of the trade fair objectives was to create a marketplace for young entrepreneurs to support them on their career path. It should also enable them to improve their income. The trade fair therefore also contributes to growing the economy in The Gambia.

As of: 03/2023

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