A D50 million entrepreneurship fund was introduced by President Adama Barrow on Saturday with the goal of strengthening National People’s Party (NPP) women by providing them with access to capital, chances for skill development, and business expansion.
Speaking at the launch, President Barrow described the project as an investment in national development, opportunity, and The Gambia’s future, saying it extends beyond women’s empowerment. He explained that despite the NPP name, the fund is meant to help women from both the party and its affiliated political parties.
The President noted that although women contribute significantly to the Gambian economy, they are frequently hindered by insufficient access to funding and other crucial support systems, not a lack of ideas or dedication. He mentioned that in order to close these disparities, the Women’s Enterprise Fund was created.
“This initiative reflects the NPP’s firm belief that economic empowerment of women is one of the most effective ways to reduce poverty and promote sustainable national development,” President Barrow stated.
He clarified that the fund will specifically target women at the grassroots level, offering them chances to grow their businesses, interest-free financing, and skills development. He claimed that the government and the party are providing Gambian women with an equal chance to thrive and achieve economic independence by doing away with interest fees and placing empowerment before profit.
President Barrow also underlined the extensive social and economic advantages of empowering women. “When women succeed, families are strengthened, communities become more stable, and the nation as a whole moves forward. Women’s empowerment is therefore not only a social concern but a key development priority,” he said.
The President reaffirmed the NPP’s commitment to being the ruling party and stated that women continue to be a key component of its development strategy. The entrepreneurship fund, according to him, is both a promise and a concrete move toward bettering livelihoods, creating jobs, and increasing women’s involvement in the national economy.
He exhorted recipients to use the resources responsibly, help one another, and show what Gambian women are capable of when given the correct opportunities.
“Let this fund be a symbol of discipline, integrity, and success. I am
confident that NPP women, and Gambian women in general, are now convinced that our party believes in you, values your contribution, and remains committed to supporting your progress,” President Barrow said.
