The 2014 Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Trade Fair started last weekend at the Independence Stadium in Bakau. The vibrancy of the fair, the grand opening on Saturday by the vice president, and the continuing daily visits by Gambians from all walks of life - not least school children in uniform - makes it an event to make all Gambians proud. The members of the GCCI, its president and CEO must be congratulated for their sterling effort. The private sector has some inducible drive that makes it a key player in the development process of a nation. Absolutely every business counts - small, medium or big. In the words of the vice president, Aja Dr Isatou Njie Saidy, "the private sector is the engine of growth".
The 2014 Trade Fair, which is international in character, has the potential of bringing greater investment opportunities into the country as the GCCI has worked hard to do over the years. The record participation of other countries from Africa and Asia speaks volumes about the effort and energy of the organsers. The theme of the Trade Fair: "inclusive growth through partnership ", is quite appealing as it is important to emphasise that in order to reach the magnificent goal of shaping a productive economy, there has to be amalgamation of efforts from both the public and private sectors. The Trade Fair is a confirmation that the private sector, through the GCCI, is making a significant contribution towards the realisation of Vision 20/20.
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