A group of businessmen from the Republic of Turkey who visited The Gambia recently have promised to invest heavily in the key sectors of the economy. The 11-man delegation from Polatli Businessmen Association based in Turkey, the prime sponsors of Yavus Salim Educational Institute were in the country for a three-day educational visit, meant to familiarise themselves with the ongoing activities of the school as well as to further strengthen the already existing relationship between the business communities in The Gambia and Turkey.

Speaking to the Daily Observer at the end of the visit, Mehmet Hasdogen, the president of Polatli Businessmen Association, expressed his Association's willingness to complement the efforts of the government of The Gambia by investing in the areas of agriculture, fisheries, health, education, construction, tourism and other developmental sectors of the country. He said that they strongly believe that The Gambia is a good country to invest.

His words: “If we return back to our country, we shall have a meeting on the issue where we will draw a conclusion in consultation with our Turkish ambassador in The Gambia. After our discussions back in Turkey with my business partners we will see which sector to start their investment.”

He then highlighted their current interventions in the country, such as sponsorship of Yavus Salim Educational Institute since its inception. Hasdogen finally disclosed that they are planning to organise an international businessmen conference to be held in Turkey, in which businessmen from different parts of the world including The Gambia, will take part.

Nusret Celik, the principal of Yavus Salim Educational Institute, expressed delight at the visit. He said the Turkish sponsors appreciated what they saw.  “They now realised the need to improve on other areas and have assured that they will not relent in their efforts to support the school. They are always responding to our request and have ever shown the willingness to give their helping hand whenever the need arises. I am very pleased to have them visit our school,” he added.

Dr. Omar Jah, the acting deputy vice chancellor at the University of The Gambia (UTG) thanked the Turkish investors for choosing The Gambia. He described their visit as a sign of generosity and willingness to further strengthen the already existing relationship between The Gambia and Turkey.  He finally urged Gambians to be open to the Turkish investors and others who can contribute to their development.

Ousman Jahateh, the proprietor/CEO of Diamond Properties also hailed the investors, assuring them of his readiness to work with them. He described Turks as generous and hardworking people who believe in giving out good and quality products. Meanwhile, the school administration also hosted a cocktail reception for the investors, which was attended by the Turkish ambassador to The Gambia.