By: Mariatou Ngum
The Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment (MoTIE), Babubcarr Ousmaila Joof was recently in the Jarra East village of Willingrara-ba for the ceremonial foundation stone laying for construction of weekly market, locally called ‘Lumo’ in that village. The Lumo is meant to enhance modern cross-border trading.
The initiative is funded by the ECOWAS Cross-border Cooperation Programme aimed to promote trade activities and promoting cooperation among neighboring countries.
Speaking on the ground, the Trade Minister revealed that The Gambia Government plans to modernize all the 28 Lumos across the country. He advised the consultant to construct a standard Lumo.
Minister Joof however expressed disappointment over the land location, observing that it will not be able to cater for all the facilities that should make up the market.
Lamin Danpha, Permanent Secretary, MoTIE affirmed the importance of modernising the Lumo, saying it will go a long way towards addressing the various health issues associated with the Lumo.
Landing B. Sanneh, Chairman of Mansakonko, Area Council, commended the Ministry of Trade for their excellent efforts and partnerships, and for winning the project. He urged for concerted efforts towards ensuring the sustainability of the market centre.
The district leaders including the Alkalo of Wellingrara-ba village; Chief Ansumana Kanagi; and Sira Sabally of Bureng Ward, all spoke about the importance of establishing and modernising the local market centre, and hailed government, and the President for fulfilling his promise to the community few years ago.
Speaking on behalf of the women, Mariama Sabally also noted the significance and timely nature of the initiative.
