Njundu Fatty, CEO of Salam Financial Services, has been elected as the new president of the Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on September 5, 2025, triumphing over property entrepreneur Saul Frazer in a closely watched election. The announcement, made at the GCCI headquarters in Banjul, marks a pivotal moment for Gambia’s private sector, with Fatty set to lead the influential business organization for the next three years.
Fatty, a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience in technology, finance, banking, and corporate strategy, campaigned on a platform of transformative change. His manifesto, ‘Hexapro,’ resonated with GCCI members, outlining six ambitious goals: promoting inclusivity and diversity across gender, age, and regions; enhancing member value; strengthening advocacy and stakeholder engagement; ensuring the Chamber’s financial sustainability; fostering cross-border and regional trade; and improving employer representation. “My vision is to build a more inclusive and robust private sector that drives economic growth,” Fatty declared during his campaign, emphasizing his commitment to job creation and economic development.
Fatty was elected alongside his team, which includes Fatou Jallow as Vice President, Momodou Barrow as Director of Banking and Financial Services, David Jeng as Director of Youth, Sulayman Mboge as Director of Agriculture, Agribusiness, and Exports, and Sanna Jassey as Director of Construction, Real Estate, and Tourism. These individuals will serve as board members.
Having previously served as GCCI treasurer, Fatty leveraged his proven track record and deep understanding of the private sector to secure the presidency. His entrepreneurial ventures, including co-founding Lasting Solution Ltd. and leading Salam Financial Services, which collectively employ over 215 people, underscored his dedication to Gambia’s economic progress. “I am deeply invested in the Gambian private sector,” Fatty said, appealing to members for support based on his accomplishments.
Fatty’s opponent, Saul Frazer, CEO of Global Properties and president of the Gambia Lawn Tennis Association, ran a strong campaign focused on empowering SMEs, attracting investment, and digitalizing the Chamber. Despite Frazer’s compelling vision, Fatty’s experience and comprehensive manifesto won over the majority of GCCI members.
Fatty praised outgoing president Edi Mass Jobe for his “unprecedented achievements” and “quality leadership.” Building on this legacy, Fatty aims to position the GCCI as a dynamic force for national development. The election, described as a democratic milestone for the Chamber, sets the stage for Fatty to implement his vision, fostering a resilient economy through inclusive policies and robust advocacy.
