Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mr. Gaye TheVoice
Published on 2024-03-05 08:35:07
The Chairman of the National Employment Technical Committee (NETC), Abdoulie M. Touray, also known as Baks Touray, has outlined key areas for catalyzing economic growth and social development. His focus is on creating employment opportunities, promoting sustainable economic practices, and enhancing the nation’s socio-economic fabric. In his position as Chairman, Touray has identified four important areas to concentrate on, including sector-specific strategies, innovative finance mechanisms, capacity building and training, and a call for delivery.
Touray emphasizes the importance of increasing focus on agriculture and renewable energy to transition towards a low-carbon economy. By harnessing solar, wind, and hydro resources, The Gambia can ensure energy security and become a regional leader in sustainable energy. This initiative not only attracts green investment but also fosters economic growth while preserving the environment.
Discussing transport infrastructure, Touray highlights the significance of prioritizing projects such as the Banjul Port, Banjul-Barra Bridge, and Stink Corner Bypass. These projects are vital for economic rejuvenation, improving trade efficiency, and enhancing regional connectivity. Additionally, the development of a world-class international airport is crucial to serve as a gateway for tourism and international business, elevating The Gambia’s global standing.
Innovative finance plays a key role in achieving these goals, with Touray endorsing the exploration of green bonds, diaspora bonds, and impact investments to align with global sustainability trends. He stresses the importance of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) as a sustainable model for financing and implementing large-scale projects, especially in light of the government’s limited fiscal space and decreasing donor aid.
Touray emphasizes the need for well-conceived, bankable projects and the establishment of a Project Preparation Facility to ensure the financial viability and attractiveness of projects to private investors. He underscores the importance of comprehensive training programs in PPPs, project finance, and project management to equip the workforce with the necessary skills for successful implementation.
Regarding capacity building and training, Touray underscores the necessity of dedicated training programs for professionals in PPP frameworks, project finance, and project management to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in public investments. He calls for a collective emphasis on delivery and urges unity in commitment to overcoming challenges and delivering tangible results for the people of The Gambia.
Overall, Touray’s vision for NETC focuses on sustainable economic growth, job creation, and social development through innovative finance mechanisms, sector-specific strategies, and capacity building initiatives. By prioritizing these areas, The Gambia can strive towards a prosperous and inclusive future for its citizens.
Read the original article on The Voice Gambia
