SPEECH BY HIS EXCELLENCY, MR. ADAMA BARROW, PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE GAMBIA AT THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF DT ASSOCIATES VENUE: SIR DAWDA KAIRABA JAWARA INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTRE DATE: 16TH NOVEMBER 2024

 

 

Honourable Ministers, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, International Development Partners, Current and former Managing Partners, Management and Staff of DT Associates, Members of the Business Community, Distinguished Invited Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is delightful to be with you tonight to mark sixty years of service, dedication, and resilience of Deloitte and Touche Associates, commonly referred to as DT Associates.

It is publicly acknowledged that, over the years, DT Associates has successfully evolved into a reputable brand and contributes proudly to the growth and transformation of the Gambian business landscape. This is especially so in the areas of accounting, audit and financial advisory services.

As we celebrate their remarkable journey tonight, we must remind ourselves of the indispensable role professional accountancy firms play in enhancing sound financial governance, effective use of resources, and transparency in both Government and the private sector. Robust financial management systems, which include independent auditing and provision of quality advisory services, are pivotal for the development of a vibrant business environment in any nation.

Efforts to create an enabling business environment are, therefore, a priority for my government so that the private sector can thrive and grow at scale in key areas of the economy.

We believe that the private sector propels growth, and it contributes significantly to shaping the future of our country.

Thus, every milestone in the private sector, such as the event we are celebrating today, underscores the power of vision, leadership, and determination in advancing our national development agenda.

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, Deloitte has competently provided essential services that have enriched the businesses they serve and the communities in which they operate. Through consistent service delivery and adaptability, the Firm has fostered trust and reliability. These are values that form the bedrock of every successful organisation.

We recognise the tireless efforts of the leaders of the Company, past and present, and the dedicated staff, whose commitment and skills have enabled the growth and sustenance of this towering enterprise.

Deloitte has every reason to celebrate, for you are a guiding example for other organisations across the nation. My government appreciates the values and impact of vision, commitment, resilience, and determination that drive business ventures. I urge you to continue building on your successes.

Ladies and Gentlemen, As I noted earlier, the private sector plays a pivotal role in national development. Here in The Gambia, the private sector is the Government’s partner in the journey toward creating sustainable growth, economic empowerment, job creation, and innovation.

As we strive to maintain an enabling and business-friendly environment, I encourage all Gambian citizens to seize the opportunity to create wealth and employment for themselves and their communities and to explore all means of growing our promising economy.

That said, we must admit that running a business comes with risks and challenges. Certainly, therefore, it is through commitment, innovation, and strength of character that we can collectively achieve the remarkable and everlasting economic growth and success we desire.

I call on the private sector players and aspiring entrepreneurs to deepen their investment in our nation's development. My government assures you of doing its best to provide the policy environment in which businesses can flourish, innovations thrive, and industries reach their full potential.

With this objective in mind, we are actively working to streamline regulations, increase transparency, and foster partnerships that encourage the private sector to play a more proactive role in our national development journey without great risks.

Our goal is to build an economy that uplifts enterprises and enhances the lives and livelihoods of all Gambians.

I advise our young people and emerging entrepreneurs to be aware that the future of The Gambia lies in their hands. DT Associates stands as a testament to what is possible through determination, focus, and relentless pursuit of excellence. I urge you, the youth, to learn and draw inspiration from their success.

Let me emphasise further that starting and sustaining a business require patience, discipline, and consistency. Set your goals high, invest in your skills, and remain focused on delivering value.

Our nation is endowed with untapped potential and opportunities. With hard work and vision, new transformative businesses that would re-define our economy will surely continue to emerge and grow. Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Let us continue to work together to create a Gambia that thrives on innovation, inclusion, and shared success. Let this celebration remind us of the possibilities that lie ahead, if we are united in purpose and committed to the betterment of our nation.

At this point, I wish to register my deep appreciation of DT Associates’ six decades of invaluable contributions to the nation. I reassure the Management and Staff that we are fully aware of your collaboration with the National Audit Office and the advisory services you provide to Government and State-Owned Enterprises.

While I congratulate you all, allow me to pay tribute to a friend and brother, Mr. Cherno Jallow, the late Managing Partner of your Firm. He was a respected professional, humble and endowed with admirable values. May the Almighty Allah admit his gentle soul to the highest Jannah. I encourage you to continue to preserve his legacy. As you unveil your new brand, I look forward to seeing DT Associates continue growing, evolving, and inspiring others.

Together with all other business entities, I pray that we remain strong and united.

Thank you all for your attention.