The Taiwanese Ambassador to The Gambia, Dr Patrick Chang, on Wednesday laid the foundation stone for the construction of a mosquito coil factory at the tune of US$200,000 at Brikama Dare Kairu.

According to the investors, the construction of the factory will last for about three months.

The factory, owned by a Taiwanese investor, Richard Tsai, the owner of Hans Company in Taiwan (a mosquito coil production factory), will minimize the importation of mosquito coil into The Gambia when it enters into full operation.

In his speech at the laying of the foundation stone, Dr Chang said the establishment of the factory would not only reduce the importation of mosquito coil into the country, but would also help in the eradication of malaria.

"Malaria is one of he deadliest diseases in The Gambia, therefore the construction of the factory is timely and welcome," he said, adding that the factory will also help to create employment opportunities for Gambian people.

He therefore thanked President Jammeh and the Department of State for Health and Social Welfare for providing space for the construction of the factory.

Speaking on behalf of GIPFZA, the manager, investment promotion and marketing, Mr. Musa Bah, thanked Mr. Richard Tsai for bringing such a factory to The Gambia.

"The mosquito coil factory is in time because The Gambia is a destination of mosquitoes and mosquitoes are great threat to the health of Gambians. This will reduce malaria infection," he said.

The Chief of Brikama, Mr. Bakary Bojang, and other local dignitaries graced the occasion, moderated by The Governor of Western Region, Abdou F.M. Badjie.