Speaking at the ninth edition of the Stake in the Nation Forum (SNF) Career Development Forum, Njundu Fatty, the President of the Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), delivered a powerful call to action, urging the country’s youthful population to harness their potential through skills development, character building, and entrepreneurial initiative.
Addressing a gathering at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, the GCCI leader praised the organisers, GK Partners, and the Office of the President, for maintaining this vital platform that fosters dialogue among the Gambian diaspora, government institutions, and the private sector. The forum’s theme, “Enhancing Participation in the Productive Sectors,” he said, represented far more than academic discussion—it constituted an urgent national imperative.
Highlighting The Gambia’s demographic advantage, the GCC1 President noted that nearly 60 per cent of the population is under 25, with a median age of approximately 20. “This is not just a statistic,” he declared. “It is a tidal wave of energy, a reservoir of creativity, potential waiting for purpose.” He outlined ambitious goals for this youthful force: ending poverty, achieving food security, protecting the environment, and strengthening institutions of peace and justice.
Yet he cautioned that without proper guidance, this demographic dividend could become a burden. Quoting the adage “an idle mind is the devil’s workshop,” he stressed the collective responsibility to channel young energy productively. Many young Gambians, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, he observed, continue to ask: “How do we break through? How do we build successful careers?”
The answer, according to the GCCI president, lies in a combination of practical skills, strong character, resilience, networking, and unwavering integrity. Drawing inspiration from the nation’s iconic baobab trees—which thrive even in the harshest soils—he emphasised that success often stems not only from academic qualifications but from problem-solving abilities and trustworthiness.
Citing Nelson Mandela’s famous words, “It always seems impossible until it is done,” he encouraged perseverance, curiosity, mentorship, and thorough apprenticeships. While many look abroad for opportunities, he pointed out growing prospects within The Gambia in sectors such as agriculture, agribusiness, construction, real estate, carpentry, logistics, fashion, tourism, finance, technology, and the creative industries.
Attitude, he insisted, often outweighs technical skills. “Be reliable. Be honest. Work hard. And keep working hard.” In a small nation like The Gambia, reputation travels fast, and integrity sustains long-term success.
The President outlined several policy recommendations for government and stakeholders, including robust investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), scholarships for disadvantaged youth, labour-market-aligned curricula, national service and internship programmes, incentives for private-sector trainee schemes, and promotion of local value addition to create domestic employment.
Showcasing GCCI’s commitment, he highlighted ongoing initiatives, including business clinics, incubation programmes, and SME support. He announced the recent launch of the Women and Youth Enterprise Fund, in partnership with Salam Financial Services and Yonna Islamic Microfinance, to provide low-interest financing, mentorship, and market access to encourage youth self-employment.
Calling for a mindset shift from job seekers to job creators, the GCCI president concluded with a direct message to young Gambians: “Your country needs you. Not tomorrow—now.” He reaffirmed the Chamber’s readiness to collaborate with government, the private sector, and the diaspora to build a more productive, inclusive, and prosperous Gambia.
The address was met with strong applause, underscoring the growing national consensus on the critical role of youth empowerment in shaping the country’s future.
