29/09/2025
President Barrow Encourages Youth Innovation in Manufacturing
His Excellency President Adama Barrow on Monday received Mr Wally Saine, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and team of the youth-led Applied Research Innovation and Manufacturing (ARIM) on a courtesy visit at the State House in Banjul.
Committed to self-sufficiency through local manufacturing of agricultural implements for mechanisation, the young innovators presented their progress over the past seven years of dedicated service and sought President Barrow’s support for their scale-up plans.
During the meeting, Mr. Momodou Drammeh, the Board Chair of ARIM, highlighted their vision, which centers on promoting the local manufacturing of farming equipment to reduce reliance on imports. He further emphasised the capabilities of Gambian youth and the need for more government support in empowering local talent and building a sustainable ecosystem for agricultural innovation.
In his robust commitment to youth empowerment, particularly in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and skill development, President Barrow, was highly impressed by the entrepreneurial spirit of the young engineers. He outlined his "Government's policy for people to be innovative and self-reliant so we can manufacture things in The Gambia" as he encouraged them to "be patient and remain committed" so that they could reach their targets.
The President assured them patronage and other forms of Government support to enable them grow and inspire more young people to apply their skills for the benefits of society.
Mr. Wally Saine commended President Barrow for his encouraging words and unwavering commitment to assisting ARIM. He also expressed gratitude for President Barrow’s willingness to refer them to other government agencies and institutions for potential partnerships for growth.