The Gambia showcased its rich cultural heritage and investment opportunities at the Japan International Expo on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, as the country marked its National Day at the prestigious international event in Osaka.
Hon. Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, Mr. Baboucarr O. Joof, led The Gambia’s delegation at the celebration, where he was officially received by H.E. Mr. IKEYAMA Shigetoshi, Vice Commissioner General of the World Exposition.
The National Day event served as a platform to highlight Gambian culture while promoting the country’s investment and trade opportunities to an international audience. The day featured official speeches, vibrant cultural performances, and guided tours of various exhibition pavilions.
Speaking on behalf of President Adama Barrow, Minister Joof expressed sincere gratitude to the Government and people of Japan, particularly praising the warm hospitality extended by the people of Osaka to the Gambian delegation.
The Minister emphasized how the Expo Osaka 2025 theme, “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” along with its sub-theme “Saving Lives, Empowering Lives, Connecting Lives,” aligns perfectly with The Gambia’s development priorities.
“This theme reminds us that innovation must be people-centred, inclusive, and sustainable,” Joof stated. “This Expo is therefore more than a display of technology and culture; it is a blueprint for how nations can work together to build a future where no one is left behind.”
Partnership Request for Economic Development
A key highlight of Minister Joof’s address was his announcement of The Gambia’s commitment to its industrialisation agenda through the review and updating of the national Industrial Policy to better respond to global dynamics.
The Minister specifically outlined the government’s efforts to establish the Trans-Gambia Special Economic Zone, a transformative project designed to position The Gambia as a competitive player in the broader African market.
Recognizing Japan’s extensive experience in supporting the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZ) in various African countries, Minister Joof formally sought partnership and collaboration with the Japanese government to support The Gambia’s economic transformation agenda.
“We seek the partnership and collaboration with the Government of Japan to support The Gambia in its economic transformative agenda through the establishment of the Sene-Gambia Special Economic Zone,” the Minister declared.
Cultural Showcase and Pavilion Tours
Following the official speeches, Minister Joof witnessed captivating cultural performances by Gambian musicians, demonstrating the country’s rich artistic heritage to the international audience.
The Minister then led his delegation on comprehensive tours of multiple exhibition pavilions, including those of Japan, The Gambia, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Senegal, and Mali, fostering regional connections and exploring potential collaborative opportunities.
The Gambia’s participation in Expo Osaka 2025 represents a significant diplomatic and economic initiative, leveraging the international platform to strengthen bilateral relations with Japan while positioning the country as an attractive destination for foreign investment and partnership in West Africa.
The event underscores The Gambia’s commitment to international cooperation and its strategic vision for economic transformation through innovative partnerships and regional integration.
