The Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie, has called on international investors to explore opportunities within The Gambia’s sports sector, highlighting the country’s stability, strategic location, and investor-friendly policies.
Speaking during the 14th World Cooperation Industries Forum held in Istanbul, Türkiye, from 11–13 February 2026, Minister Badjie emphasized the growing potential of sports as a driver for youth employment, infrastructure development, and private sector investment. He noted that The Gambia’s open-door policy and conducive business environment provide strong prospects for mutually beneficial partnerships.
The Minister made these remarks as part of a Gambian delegation participating in the forum, which brings together government officials and industry leaders to strengthen Africa–Türkiye commercial cooperation. He encouraged Turkish businesses to consider investment in sports infrastructure, management, and related industries that can contribute to youth development and economic growth.
On the margins of the forum, Minister Badjie, alongside the Honourable Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, visited the industrial city of Sakarya, where discussions were held with the Mayor, Yusuf Alemdar, on potential areas of cooperation, including sports development and city partnerships.
The forum, themed “Africa is the future and the future is Africa,” attracted delegates from across the continent and aims to strengthen trade and investment ties between African countries and Türkiye.
Background note: The Gambian delegation to the forum included His Excellency Alkali Conteh, Ambassador of The Gambia to Türkiye, and representatives from the Office of the President.
