By: Kebba Ansu Manneh
Hon. Farimang Saho, President of the Confederation of Gambian Industries (CGI), has stated that for Africa to realize its economic potential, it must depend on its own entrepreneurs and industrial leaders.
He emphasized that regional trade fair festivals are important platforms for businesses to showcase their products to a wide range of consumers. These events promote integration and strengthen cultural ties among countries in the region.
The President of the Confederation of Gambian Industries (CGI) made these remarks during an exclusive interview with TAT at the Kaolack International Trade Fair (FIKA) 2025, which took place on January 25, 2025, in Kaolack, Senegal.
The 2025 FIKA marks the 9th anniversary of this event, which has seen significant participation from women entrepreneurs across Senegal and Gambia. These entrepreneurs showcase their innovative and creative products at this gathering, which is organized under the leadership of the MAA Foundation and the Senegalo-Gambia Network of Women Entrepreneurs.
Sir Farimang Saho, who serves as Hungary’s Counsel to the Gambia, describes the Gambian industry’s participation in FIKA 2025 as a historic milestone for the Confederation of Gambian Industries (CGI). He highlights that this marks the first time the confederation has actively led its members to participate in a trade fair outside Gambian borders.
The President of CGI emphasizes that the Governments of Senegal and the Gambia, as immediate neighbors, must demonstrate a stronger political commitment to supporting initiatives like FIKA. He argues that both governments should provide financial and logistical support to empower and assist local organizations, such as the Confederation of Gambian Industries (CDI).
“This backing will enhance participation and improve communication with our members, fostering a more inclusive environment. African economic advancement should be spearheaded by its own entrepreneurs and industrial leaders with the backing of policymakers offering their support,’
He added: “Achieving this will help industries to combat hunger, address skill shortages, and reduce the urge to seek opportunities elsewhere.”
Saho further explained that the participation of Gambian Companies and industries in FIKA 2025 comes on the heels of the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between CGI and UPIC, the umbrella body for Senegalese Industries, adding that this development prompted CGI to strengthen the existing trade connections with the Republic of Senegal and as well deepen the exchange of cultural practices but also promote the sharing of industrial goods.
He added that participating in such an international event provides an ideal platform to highlight various Gambian products and promote bilateral. He observed that the vision of African integration, fervently championed by African leaders, would genuinely materialize if Gambia and Senegal led by example in reducing trade barriers.
‘During transporting our goods to the trade fair in Kaolack, we witnessed both governments’ swift and supportive actions, facilitating the clearance of our goods at the border within mere hours of leaving Banjul. This efficiency enabled us to set up our exhibits and manage logistics effectively. Such responsiveness illustrates the commitment of our leadership to value trade exchanges and their substantial economic implications, Hon. Farimang Saho revealed.
He added: “These initiatives will lead to direct access to various consumer products and significantly bolster our economic development, aiding in stabilizing inflation. This translates to increased factory production and sustainable employment prospects for our youth and women.”
The Mayor of Kaolack, Mr. Serigne Mboop, and the President of the Chamber of Commerce of Kaolack notably stressed the value of CGI and UPIC’s existing participation, offering a warm welcome and even an additional complimentary stand to showcase more Gambian products at the event.
Mairie Adjoint De Koalack, Aja Salimata Sallah described the participation of CGI and MAA Foundation as a significant step in breaking trade barriers between the Gambia and Senegal. They noted that many Gambian participants at the trade fair are women entrepreneurs who will immensely benefit from the opportunity to connect with the Senegalese market, build contacts and collaborations, and foster economic growth and prosperity.
She also appealed to the governments of Senegal and Gambia to work together to reduce existing trade barriers that negatively affect the movement of goods and people. She urged the Gambian Government to reduce the number of security checkpoints encountered by Senegalese traders and strengthen border security posts to assess all those entering and leaving the country effectively.
Zainab Hydara, a sales manager at Sisoho Hawbatu Sauda, expressed gratitude to the event’s organizers, including CGI, MAA Foundation, and the Senegalo/Gambia Network of Women Entrepreneurs.
She added that such an event allowed her company to expose its products to the world, build strong connections with partners, and enhance regional integration.
