By Ramatoulie Jawo
President Adama Barrow has reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering economic growth and empowering Gambian youth through strategic investments in agriculture, infrastructure, and skills development.
Delivering his Independence Day address at McCarthy Square in Banjul, President Barrow emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to boost agricultural productivity, reduce unemployment, and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for Gambians.
While outlining his government’s key achievements, President Barrow acknowledged persistent challenges, including poverty, unemployment, and irregular migration. He reaffirmed his commitment to addressing these issues through continued investments in youth employment, skills training, and infrastructure development.
“Although these impressive achievements highlight progress, they are tempered by high unemployment and poverty level rates, which contribute to irregular migration and crime. To resolve these challenges, my government will committally continue expanding livelihood opportunities,”
Despite these gains, the president noted that high unemployment and poverty levels continue to drive irregular migration and crime. To combat these challenges, he pledged sustained efforts to expand livelihood opportunities across the country.
President Barrow also highlighted the government’s initiatives aimed at uplifting women. Since 2019, the Women’s Enterprise Fund has provided financial support to thousands of women entrepreneurs, enabling them to establish and grow their businesses. Additionally, skills training programs have equipped thousands of women and young people with practical skills, enhancing employability and contributing to national development.
“The Gambia’s youthful population is our greatest asset, and this includes you, the school children and students in our educational institutions you are endowed with immense potential and, therefore, able to drive our nation’s growth yet too many young people venture into irregular migration,” he said.
He reassured students that his government stands firmly with them, committed to creating diverse opportunities for their success right here at home.
President Barrow highlighted that efforts are being intensified to ensure that every community, regardless of its remoteness, is powered, connected, and enjoys the benefits of modern living.“As we strengthen bilateral cooperation and invest in our nation’s future, let this Independence Day anniversary celebration remind us that we are all together on a transformative journey. No Gambian should feel left behind! Our unity, resilience, and unwavering hope must propel us forward to build a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and future generations. Let us draw strength from the past and march forward, confident and determined,” he said.