Gambia is Good (GIG), a dynamic and progressive social enterprise working towards improving the livelihoods of farmers in collaboration with Concern Universal (CU), a UK international NGO in the country recently organised an award ceremony.

The forum, held at Concern Universal head office in Fajara, was meant to recognise the contribution of individuals and institutions that have been very supportive to their programmes.

Speaking at the colorful ceremony, Patricia Wall, Concern Universal country director, highlighted some of the major achievements registered by Concern Universal in The Gambia over the years.

She said the inspiring vision of Gambia is Good grown out of a unique collaboration with Concern Universal and partners. She noted that (GIG) is an example of an innovative enterprise that seeks to link producers and consumers through sound ethical business practices and to provide a mechanism to plough back into development of any surplus generated through economic activities.

According to Madam Wall, Gambia is Good originated in 1998 when Concern Universal commissioned a survey of horticultural marketing in The Gambia.

She noted that Concern Universal recently received the UK 2008 International Charity of the year award for the international aid and development category. “Gambia is Good also won the best for poverty reduction category at the virgin holidays of responsible tourism award 2008,” she said.

For her part, Madam Fatou Jasseh-Kuyateh, permanent secretary, office of the Vice President commended Concern Universal and Gambia is Good for their immense contribution to the promotion of agricultural productivity. She further reminded the gathering of the importance of The Gambia as an attractive tourist destination.

Awards, ranging from 2008 customers of the year, best hotel with the best purchase from Gambia is Good and producers of the year, were awarded.