The Daily Observer is privileged and delighted to witness the GCCI’s Trade Fair this week 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 - is an event to make all Gambians proud. Even the fact that the Fair is held at the Independence Stadium is highly symbolic. Who would have thought a few years back that Gambia would host such an impressive trade fair?

The members of the Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, its President Bai Matarr Drammeh and CEO Mam Cherno Jallow, 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, big, or medium. In the words of the Vice President, Aja Dr Isatou Njie Saidy, “the private sector is the engine of growth.”

The 2007 Trade Fair has the potential of bringing greater investment oppotunities into the country as the GCCI has worked hard to do over the years. The record participation of 40 companies from all over the world speaks volumes for the effort and energy  of the organisers. The theme of the Trade Fair:

“Tapping the growth potential of the small and medium enterprises”, is quite appealing as it is important to emphasise that in order to reach the magnificent goal of shaping a productive economy, the development of small businesses is crucial. The 2007 Trade Fair  is a confirmation that the private sector, through the GCCI, is making a most significant contribution towards the realisation of Vision 20/20.

In support of this gallant effort by the GCCI, the Daily Observer would encourage all businesses to join and support the GCCI. We can, therefore, announce here that the Daily Observer will seek GCCI membership forthwith and contribute our quota to national development.