Hon. Baboucarr O. Joof, Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, delivered a powerful statement at the UNCTAD XVI General Debate at the Palais des Nations in Geneva on October 20, 2025.
Our message to the world: LDCs did not create the global crises we face, but we bear the brunt of their consequences. What we seek is not charity, but solidarity rooted in justice.
Key Highlights from Minister Joof’s Address:
🔹 Productive Capacity is Key – The Gambia is investing in agro-processing, light manufacturing, renewable energy, and digital infrastructure to transform our economy
🔹 Hard Questions on the Doha Programme – Nearly 4 years in, only 3 LDCs have met graduation thresholds, half are in debt distress, and the digital divide is deepening
🔹 Our Call to Development Partners:
- Replenish the UNCTAD LDC Trust Fund
- Align Aid for Trade with LDC national strategies
- Support trade infrastructure – ports, corridors, energy
- Simplify rules of origin and remove non-tariff barriers
- Ensure inclusive access to digital trade and green technologies
🎯 The Gambia as LDC Coordinator at WTO
As we prepare for MC14, The Gambia is leading efforts to ensure Least Developed Countries get concrete, measurable outcomes: Operationalizing Special & Differential Treatment Extending TRIPS transition periods Preserving preferences for graduating LDCs Centering LDC voices in WTO reform
“We seek a global trading system that empowers, not excludes; that moves from diagnosing problems to delivering solutions.” – Hon. Baboucarr O. Joof The Gambia stands ready to lead with resolve, unity, and hope!
