ECOWAS Hands Over EU-Backed Development Projects to Boost Jobs and Skills in The Gambia

Written by: Michaella Faith Wright

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially handed over projects under its Regional Stabilization and Development Fund (FRSD) to the Government of The Gambia, marking a major step in job creation, youth empowerment, and sustainable development.

The handover ceremony highlighted key achievements under the FRSD pilot programme, which focused on strengthening livelihoods, improving infrastructure, and enhancing skills across critical sectors.

Under the Matching Grants Scheme, the programme supported 27 horticultural gardens, nine poultry houses, and two fisheries projects. It also invested in fish smoking houses in Brufut, Joswang, and Barra, significantly improving value addition and livelihoods in coastal communities.

In vocational training and skills development, major facilities were established, including the Agro-Food Processing Centre at the Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute (GTHI) in Kanifing, as well as dormitories and workshops at the UCEDD Annex in Mansakonko and Jarra Soma.

According to the Independent End-Line Evaluation Report issued in February 2026, the project created 18,552 jobs, including 6,042 permanent positions. Notably, 80% of these jobs are held by youth, while 35% are linked to value addition.

Speaking at the event, the Director of African Affairs at Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), Christopher Brown, said, “We contributed a total amount of €20 million… and the most important achievement is the creation of jobs, especially for young people.”

ECOWAS Vice President, Damtien L. Tchintchibidja, described the initiative as “a realization of a collective commitment to sustainable development and improved living conditions.”

A beneficiary, Aminata Jallow from Brufut, said, “We are so happy… having infrastructure for our fish empowers us as women and helps us support our families.”

She added that the project has transformed their daily lives and income opportunities.