The Government of The Gambia has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an enabling environment for young entrepreneurs, innovators, and startups with the official launch of the Afrimakk Initiative. The flagship programme, spearheaded by the Mendez Impact Foundation, debuted with the Young Innovators Challenge, an inter-school entrepreneurship competition involving nine schools across the region.
The Honourable Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, Mod K. Ceesay, presided over the launch alongside Deputy Permanent Secretary Mamadi Dampha. The initiative aims to provide young Gambians with mentorship, networks, innovation opportunities, entrepreneurship education, and leadership development.
Speaking at the event, Minister Ceesay described the launch as “a great honour” and commended the Afrimakk Project Team and partners, particularly the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, for their support. He stressed that young Gambians should be seen not merely as beneficiaries of development but as active participants, creators, problem-solvers, and future employers.
“Entrepreneurship and innovation must be encouraged and nurtured from an early age, taking into consideration our local realities, resources and opportunities,” the Minister said.
The Minister highlighted several ongoing government programmes designed to support youth and women entrepreneurs: Digital Single Window: A system developed with UNCTAD to simplify business registration and encourage formalization, SheTrades Gambia Hub: Supporting women-owned businesses to strengthen operations and expand market participation, National Standards: Nearly 500 standards developed to improve certification, product quality, and competitiveness. Fair Competition: Ensuring consumer protection and building confidence in sustainable businesses.
He also urged young entrepreneurs to explore opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area, which opens access to a continental market of over one billion people.
The Young Innovators Challenge will give students hands-on experience in developing entrepreneurial ideas, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, while connecting them to mentorship and networking opportunities.
Minister Ceesay reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a competitive, inclusive, and investment-driven economy. He expressed confidence that the Afrimakk Initiative will strengthen The Gambia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and empower young people to contribute meaningfully to national development.
