President Adama Barrow has declared public-private partnerships (PPPs) inevitable for investment and essential for Africa’s development, positioning them as key pillars for sustainable growth.

He made the remarks at the 7th edition of the Financial Afrik Awards in Banjul, held under the theme “PPPs as an Alternative to Public Debt.” President Barrow said the conference was timely, as African economies increasingly open up to business and seek new development pathways.

The Gambian leader urged participants to move beyond dialogue and focus on practical solutions, including mobilising private capital, leveraging development finance, and delivering measurable economic impact. Representatives from France and the Arab world also attended the ceremony.