By: Fatou Krubally
The Confederation of Gambian Industries (CGI) has called for stronger private sector involvement in driving The Gambia’s shift toward a greener and more resilient economy.
This was part of the statement delivered by CGI following the launch of the Country Climate and Development Report (CCDR).
In a statement issued in Banjul on Tuesday, the business umbrella body described the report as a major milestone, highlighting new opportunities for investment while stressing that public fund alone would not be enough to meet the country’s climate and development needs.
CGI President Farimang Saho says The Gambia faces a dual challenge of expanding its productive base and creating jobs, while responding to the growing impact of climate change. He noted that sectors such as agriculture, tourism and coastal infrastructure were already feeling the strain.
According to CGI, the CCDR outlines practical and commercially viable opportunities for green investment across key sectors. In agro-processing, initiatives like solar-powered operations, cold storage and efficient use of agricultural waste could improve productivity and reduce costs. In tourism, a shift toward eco-certified facilities and sustainable practices is seen as a way to attract higher-value visitors and strengthen the country’s global image.
The report also identifies potential in urban waste management, where investments in recycling, composting and waste-to-energy solutions could transform the sector into a source of economic returns.
Despite these opportunities, CGI warned that regulatory bottlenecks, limited access to finance and weak coordination continue to hinder private sector participation. It called for reforms, including streamlined procedures, clearer incentives and improved access to land.
CGI reaffirmed its readiness to work with government and partners to support reforms and promote investment.
The organisation stresses that the transition to green growth is not only about environmental protection, but also about building a competitive and sustainable economy for the future.
