By Fatou Sillah
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the International Trade Centre (ITC), in partnership with the private sector, have launched the #GambiaPrivateSector4Equality campaign—an initiative aimed at mobilizing businesses to champion gender equality. As part of this effort, a Public Procurement Guide for Women Entrepreneurs was also introduced on Tuesday at the ITC Conference Center in Bakau.
Aligned with International Women’s Day celebrations, the campaign seeks to promote awareness and drive concrete action toward creating a more inclusive society where women and girls can thrive. The launch event convened key stakeholders, including government officials, private sector leaders, and women’s advocacy groups, to explore sustainable solutions for advancing gender equality in The Gambia.
The newly introduced Public Procurement Guide for Women Entrepreneurs is designed to assist women in navigating public procurement processes. By providing a step-by-step approach to applying for government contracts, the guide aims to empower women entrepreneurs and enhance their access to procurement opportunities.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment, Babucarr O. Joof, highlighted the crucial role of women in trade and emphasized the significance of this year’s International Women’s Day theme. He noted that the procurement guide represents a major step forward in fostering economic inclusion for women.
“The development of the guide on public procurement for women entrepreneurs represents a significant milestone in our journey towards gender-inclusive economic development,” he said.
UNFPA Country Representative in The Gambia, Ndey Rose Sarr, underscored the importance of investing in women’s health and rights, emphasizing that such investments contribute to stronger and more resilient communities.
“By championing women’s health & rights, & by strategically investing in women-led businesses, we are co-creating a future where communities are not only stronger & resilient but where businesses themselves thrive in a sustainable & equitable ecosystem.” she said.
Similarly, Ngoneh Panneh, Senior Technical Expert at ITC, noted that International Women’s Day serves as both a celebration and a reminder of the work still needed to achieve gender equality. She reaffirmed ITC’s commitment to supporting women through initiatives such as this campaign.
“With the enactment of the Gambia Public Procurement Regulations 2024, this guide will serve as a practical tool for women entrepreneurs and MSMEs, helping them navigate government tenders and secure contracts.” she said.
Representatives from women’s advocacy groups and the Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) also reiterated the significance of the #GambiaPrivateSector4Equality campaign and the Public Procurement Guide for Women Entrepreneurs in bridging gender gaps in business and economic opportunities.
The initiative marks a significant step toward fostering an inclusive and equitable business environment, empowering women to play a more active role in The Gambia’s economic growth.
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