By: Fatou Krubally
The Confederation of Gambian Industries (CGI) has called for urgent measures to strengthen The Gambia’s digital economy.
CGI says investments in digital infrastructure, trade facilitation and skills development are essential to improving industrial competitiveness and export performance.
The call follows the participation of CGI Vice President Mohammed Sillah in a Seminar on Digital Trade and Cross-Border E-Commerce held in Beijing, China, from 9 to 22 July, which brought together participants from several african countries to examine strategies for promoting digital trade and economic growth.
In a statement issued after the seminar, CGI said one of the key lessons was that digital transformation requires more than the adoption of new technologies. It said sustained investment in infrastructure, logistics, industrial production, financing, human capital and enabling public policies is necessary to unlock the full potential of the digital economy.
The organization noted that although Africa’s digital economy offers significant opportunities, businesses continue to face challenges, including inadequate broadband infrastructure, high internet costs, weak logistics systems, fragmented regulations, skills shortages and limited access to finance.
According to CGI, addressing these constraints will be critical to enabling Gambian businesses to compete effectively in regional and international markets.
The organization also pointed to emerging export opportunities, including preferential access to the Chinese market for qualifying products from least-developed African countries. It said exporters must, however, comply with product standards, certification requirements, customs procedures and rules of origin to benefit fully from such trade arrangements.
CGI called for the formulation of a national digital economy strategy linked to productive sectors, the expansion of affordable broadband services and reliable electricity, the establishment of rural e-commerce and logistics centres, and increased support for exporters seeking access to international markets.
Speaking on the outcome of the seminar, Mr. Sillah said digital transformation should be regarded as a comprehensive economic development agenda.
“Digital transformation is not simply about adopting new technologies. It is about building an ecosystem that connects production, logistics, finance, trade and innovation,” he said.
He added that The Gambia has an opportunity to leverage digital trade, regional integration and preferential market access to strengthen its industrial base, create employment and increase exports.
CGI reaffirmed its commitment to working with the government, the private sector and development partners to promote policies and initiatives that enhance industrial competitiveness and position Gambian enterprises to benefit from opportunities in the evolving digital economy.