This week, from October 23 to 27, 2023, the Gambia-German Centre and the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment embarked on a significant journey across the nation. These organizations have jointly initiated a series of program monitoring visits that span the entire country.
The primary objective of these visits is to delve into the heart of the initiatives aimed at fostering growth, progress, and sustainable development in The Gambia. The teams will assess the progress, results, impact, views, and opinions of the beneficiaries, who have been the driving force behind the implementation of various measures. These measures are made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Gambia-German Centre (GGAC) and its selected implementing partners, working closely with the Civil Society component.
These visits hold immense significance as they are designed not only to gauge the achievements but also to engage in open discussions surrounding the challenges and areas of improvement. The feedback and insights collected during these visits will play a crucial role in shaping the future direction of the programs and ensuring they are aligned with the actual needs of the community.
The range of activities and projects being monitored during these visits are as diverse as they are impactful:
1. Business Startups and Direct Employment:
- Aiming to create opportunities and livelihoods for the youth and the local population, the GGAC offers support for business startups and direct employment. Through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) qualifications, they equip individuals with the skills needed to succeed in the world of work.
2. Economic Inclusion of Returnees and Potential Migrants:
- In collaboration with the German Sparkassenstiftung für internationale Kooperation (DSIK), this project is actively supporting the local population and returnees, including Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and refugees. By providing employability training and fostering entrepreneurial activities, such as business coaching, grants, and mini loans, this initiative is a beacon of hope for marginalized community members.
3. Activating Skills and Employment Opportunities:
- The International Trade Centre (ITC) is actively involved in creating and improving income and employment opportunities for the local population and returnees. Through financial support for start-ups, mini-grants, complimentary coaching, TVET programs in growth sectors, apprenticeships, and cash-for-work programs, this project opens doors for returnees, IDPs, refugees, and the local Gambian population.
4. Strengthening Mental Health and Psychosocial Well-being:
- The Gambia Red Cross Society (GRCS) has been diligently working to support the psychosocial well-being of migrant returnees and their host and origin communities. By providing social reintegration measures and basic Psychosocial First Aid (PFA) and Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) services, this project is making a difference in the lives of vulnerable returnees and their communities.
5. Foster Agribusiness and Entrepreneurship Opportunities:
- The Global Youth Innovation Network (GYIN) Gambia Chapter, as an implementing partner, is dedicated to empowering returnees, youth, women, and the host community. Through the provision of entrepreneurial and soft skills, reorientation, and service support, the GYIN Gambia Chapter is actively engaged in helping these groups set up and run their own enterprises.
These program monitoring visits are a testament to the commitment of the Gambia-German Centre and the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment to create a brighter and more prosperous future for the people of The Gambia. By taking a closer look at these initiatives, we are not only celebrating their successes but also ensuring that the path forward is paved with even greater opportunities and sustainability. Together, we continue to build a brighter tomorrow for The Gambia.
For more information and updates about these initiatives, please stay tuned to our website and social media channels.