In keeping with its tradition of capacitating media practitioners, particularly business journalists, Guaranty Trust Bank (Gambia) Ltd has sponsored two journalists working for the major Gambian newspapers to attend the annual Journalist Forum organised by the Guaranty Trust Bank plc in Lagos, Nigeria.

Ousman Darboe, News Editor at the Daily Observer and also anchor of its business column, and Ousman Kargbo, Deputy News Editor and financial columnist of The Point newspaper joined their colleagues from the sub-region from 4 to 9 December 2006 for the course.

Amie Jallow, Manager, Corporate Affairs, GTB (Gambia) Ltd, explained that the purpose of the course is to update journalists on the activities of the bank over the years and to develop the business writing skills of journalists.

“The role of business journalists is critical. We have always held the opinion that business journalism is lacking in the sub-region. We know that by the time the skills of business reporters are honed, they will have become agents of business and economic development in the sub-region,” Mrs Jallow said.

Ousman Darboe thanked the Daily Observer for nominating him for the course, but reserved his copious thanks for GTB for their initiatives, which he called “insightful and innovative”.

He added that this shows that the bank values journalists as partners.

Ousman Kargbo of The Point added: “If nothing is conceived, nothing can be delivered. Journalists can only write good business stories if they are well prepared. This is what GTB is doing – improving the skills of journalists. The bank therefore deserves the thanks of the press and the reading public for their initiative. GTB is a true friend of the local press.”

Kargbo also extended his unreserved commendation to The Point for nominating him for the course.

The week-long course include presentations on Managing and Planning Personal Finance, and Journalism and Business Reporting, to be delivered by Tom Ashby, Reuters Bureau Chief, Nigeria. Film shows and field trips to Obudu Ranch and Tinapa Business Resort will also be part of the course programme.

Guaranty Trust Bank (Gambia) Ltd, which started operations on 5 March 2002, presently has the fastest rate of branch expansion in The Gambia.

In addition to its magnificent Head Office situated at Kairaba Avenue, the bank also has four branches located in Banjul, Serrekunda, Brikama and Senegambia.

GTB offers a wide range of innovative and customer friendly products and services including the ‘Joni Joni’ cash transfer (which was introduced in August 2006) - a swift means of transferring money from one part of the country to another - SMS banking and e-banking.