By: Fatou Krubally
The Confederation of Gambian Industries (CGI) and the Gambia Chapter of the African Network of Women Entrepreneurs and Investors (ANWEI), officially known in French as Le Réseau Africain des Femmes Entrepreneurs et Investisseurs (RAFEI), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Saturday, May 24, 2025, marking a significant step toward inclusive industrial growth and women’s economic empowerment.
The signing ceremony, held at the Conference Centre in Bijilo, coincided with Africa Liberation Day commemorations and featured the presentation of certificates of appreciation to international delegates from Senegal. The Senegal Chapter of RaFEI was present to witness the event, lending strong support to the subregional partnership.
Leading the Gambian delegation were Farming Saho, President of CGI, and Ndey Awa Ceesay, Country Representative of ANWEI/RAFEI Gambia. The MOU commits both institutions to collaborate on key initiatives including capacity building, industrial internships, data sharing, and joint trade fairs that foster women-led production and entrepreneurship.
“This partnership is both historic and symbolic,” said GCI President Saho. “It ensures women are not just entrepreneurs but drivers of value-added production transforming farm produce into finished goods that command higher market value.
The Senegalese delegation, led by RaFEI President Madam Astou Saho and Executive Director and former Senegalese gender minister Madam Ndey Haddy Diop, toured local industries ahead of the event, highlighting industrial achievements and collaboration opportunities.
“This MOU is a regional signal of unity and ambition,” says Astou Saho. “Senegal and The Gambia share a destiny and our women are ready to shape it,” She added.
In her closing remarks, Ndey Awa Ceesay emphasized: “signing this on Africa Liberation Day reminds us of our shared struggle and shared future. This agreement is a legacy for our daughters and sons.”
