GCCI: Providing the stimulus for economic growth

GCCI) is a non-political, non-profit making, self-governed, voluntary, democratic and private sector organization representing Trade and Commerce, Agriculture, Industry, Transport, Telecommunication services, Tourism, Banking and Finance.

The principal functions of GCCI are provision of essential business services to the private sector in general and its members in particular, and to advise and influence government in creating a favourable business environment. Borne out of a merger between the then Bathurst Chamber and Gambia Employers Organisation, the GCCI was established under private law in 1967. It is composed of business entities from the various sectors of the economy.

Membership to the chamber is optional, an adoption of the British model. What started as a seven member organisation now has over seven hundred members.
Over the years, GCCI has been very instrumental in expanding international trade activities and promoting growth. It brings together a wide range of business interests into close and continuous contact with government departments at the right levels.

Membership of GCCI spans over all sectors of the economy, thereby making it the most important multi-sectoral organisation in The Gambia. Following a retreat organized in December 2005, GCCI restructured its office, developed a new corporate image and put in place strategic priority pillars based on its mission.

Functions of the GCCI:
Advocacy for the Private Sector   GCCI is recognised by Government as representing the interest of the Private Sector, which is considered as the “engine of growth” GCCI’s participation in the development process is portrayed through its inclusion in Trade Missions and Presidential visits abroad, national Boards and Committees, where policy directions are decided.  Other advocacy tools utilized are the economic summit, pre-budget consultations and other meetings with government as and when the need arises.
 
Training:
Conducts courses for small business operators, in collaboration with specialised agencies where possible. GCCI is as well quite often requested to put forward nominations for overseas training seminars.  

Industrial/Labour Relations Assist members with labour relations problems, represent members at tripartite negotiations with trade unions, preparation of personnel policy for members, current information on labour issues, produce booklets on Employment laws and other laws affecting business operations in the Gambia.

Annual Economic Summit Provide the forum for public private sector exchange at the highest level to review economic policies and issues and make recommendation for necessary revision.  

Promoting Gambian Businesses:
Assist in the marketing efforts of Gambian Businesses through collection and dissemination of information and support participation in trade fairs, publication of a monthly business paper, six monthly business bulletin, and general networking of local and outside businesses.  

Organize National Trade Fairs
Every two years and sectoral fairs quarterly  Communications & Media Relations. Keeping members informed through the GCCI News Release, (electronic newsletter), The business Gambia (GCCI business magazine), business talk on radio, business news on television, business column in local newspapers, brochures, press releases, annual dinners, business forums, workshops and seminars.  

Sectoral Groups Interaction
Sector groups offer the opportunity for members to communicate and interact with fellow members in similar areas of interest. Discussions leading to solutions to common business problems. GCCI has a number of standing committees including:  § Capacity Building Training & External Relations § Fundraising Advocacy § Trade Fair § Small & Medium Size Enterprise § Trade and Globalisation § Industry and Technology Development § Export Development and Diversification

Special Seminars
Informative seminars held occasionally (in collaboration with other institutions) to address special economic issues of interest to the private sector in general and members in particular.  

Business Forums
Hosting periodic working lunches and dinners with top officials (Government & Non-Government) with the purpose of improving working relations and informally putting forward members’ interests.  

Trade Mission/Linkages
Assistance to members through co-hosting trade missions within the Sub-Region and aboard.

Overseas Enquiries
Receives daily business enquiries from overseas about possible joint ventures, distributorship, agency and other forms of commercial partnership with Gambian businesses. Gambian companies are also listed in the South African business directory

Research for the Private Sector  
Through the Enterprise Foundation GCCI will conduct research on economic policy, serve as an incubation centre for SMEs, and provide advice on managerial problems and source of funding. Also provide assistance in the setting up of Trade and Professional Associations.