In The Gambia, strawberry production is rare and the majorty of food is imported. After having received a three-month training on vegetable production, 24-year old Alhadgie Faal decided to build his own small business where he and his brother grow high-value vegetables and fruits, including strawberries. The training was made possible through the Jobs, Skills and Finance (JSF) programme for Women and Youth in The Gambia, a flagship programme of the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), in collaboration with International Trade Center (ITC), funded by the European Union. The JSF Programme aims to empower women and youth by providing them with quality and free vocational training and entrepreneurial skills to improve their economic prospects.

Alhadgie’s business has been successful and he and his brother sell their produce to hotels, restaurants and individuals. They are planning to expand their business and hope to produce enough fruits and vegetables to feed the nation.