The Global Youth Innovation Network (GYIN) Gambia Chapter officially launched WIDU Africa activities in The Gambia on July 2, 2026, with a one-day onboarding session for selected business coaches. Held at the organization’s Brusubi headquarters, the event equipped coaches to provide tailored business growth support to Gambian entrepreneurs under the WIDU Africa programme.
Between July 2026 and March 2027, twenty entrepreneurs will benefit from structured coaching, including three personalized visits each. These sessions will guide participants through the WIDU cycle, focusing on business planning, marketing, and financial management, while promoting sustainable job creation, income growth, and economic resilience.
WIDU Africa, implemented by GIZ on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and co-financed by the European Union, introduces an innovative co-financing model that leverages diaspora remittances to support micro and small enterprises (MSEs). Sponsored entrepreneurs can access grants of up to EUR 3,000 for their first application and up to EUR 5,000 for subsequent rounds.
Speaking at the onboarding, Mamadou Edrisa Njie, Executive Director of GYIN Gambia, emphasized that WIDU funding and coaching are provided entirely free of charge. He underscored the programme’s role in enhancing business performance and driving sustainable growth, noting that GYIN Gambia’s leadership ensures entrepreneurs are equipped with the tools and strategies needed to thrive in today’s competitive environment.
Till Schmeing, Advisor for the WIDU project at the GIZ Dakar Office, highlighted the programme’s unique approach: “WIDU Africa supports job creation in Africa by redirecting remittances from the African diaspora in Europe into micro and small businesses of relatives or friends in participating African countries.”
Ms. Menggeh Lowe, Advisor for WIDU Africa in The Gambia, added: “Every business supported by WIDU participates in three free business coaching sessions tailored to their individual needs. Coaching is an integral part of the programme, ensuring that diaspora contributions are utilized effectively to unlock the economic and social potential of small businesses.”
With this launch, GYIN Gambia positions itself at the forefront of entrepreneurial empowerment, combining financial support with hands-on coaching to strengthen the resilience and growth of Gambian businesses.
