The Women Enterprise Fund (WEF), a key initiative under The Gambia’s Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare, officially inaugurated its new Board on Wednesday, 16 July 2025, in a ceremony that marked a renewed commitment to the economic empowerment of Gambian women.
The inauguration, held at the Ministry, was officiated by the Permanent Secretary (Technical), Mr. Saikou Trawally, on behalf of Minister Fatou Kinteh. Mr. Trawally commended the outgoing Board, led by former Chairperson Fatou Deen Touray, for their dedicated service and success in expanding the Fund’s portfolio to D80 million.
In his remarks, Mr. Trawally called on the new Board to build on this foundation through strong collaboration and strategic resource mobilization. “The Fund’s mission is more than financial support,” he said. “It’s about empowering women to play their full role in national development. Empowered women mean better education, better nutrition, and a stronger economy.”
The incoming Board is tasked with shaping the strategic direction of the Fund, which provides financial support and capacity-building services to women entrepreneurs across the country. WEF is seen as a critical tool in addressing gender inequality and strengthening the economic resilience of women, particularly in underserved communities.
‘A Vision for Growth and Impact’
Newly appointed Board Chairperson, Mrs. Naffie Barry, in her acceptance speech, thanked President Adama Barrow for her appointment and extended gratitude to the outgoing leadership. Mrs. Barry pledged to work closely with fellow Board members and partners to exceed the achievements of the past term.
“I want to thank President Barrow for the confidence he has placed in me,” she said. “Women make up 51 percent of our population. They are the breadwinners, they educate their families, and they are central to our development. Supporting them is not just a women’s issue it’s a national priority.”
Mrs. Barry emphasised that expanding access to finance and skills training for women entrepreneurs will remain at the heart of the Board’s work. She also reiterated the importance of partnerships in growing the Fund’s reach and impact.
The ceremony was chaired by WEF Fund Manager, Mr. Alpha Humma, who reaffirmed the institution’s core mission to support, train, and economically uplift women across The Gambia.
As part of the proceedings, certificates of recognition were awarded in absentia to the outgoing Chairperson, Fatou Deen Touray, and to Mrs. Dea Sawaneh, former Chairperson of the National Women’s Council, for their significant contributions to advancing women’s empowerment through the Fund.
The event marked a moment of transition, but also continuity, as WEF moves into a new chapter of leadership with a clear mandate: to deepen its impact and ensure more Gambian women are equipped with the tools they need to thrive.
