African Leaders Urged to Adopt Public-Private Partnerships Amid Rising Debt Pressures

Gambian President Adama Barrow has called for stronger public-private partnerships (PPPs) across Africa, describing them as essential instruments for sustainable development and viable alternatives to rising public debt.

Speaking on Friday in Banjul at the 7th edition of the Financial Afrik Awards, President Barrow said PPPs are no longer optional as African economies open up to global business and seek innovative ways to finance development without overburdening public finances.

Addressing delegates at the Sir Dawda Jawara International Conference Centre, the president noted that the conference theme; PPPs as an alternative to public debt, reflects the pressing economic realities facing the continent.

President Barrow urged stakeholders to move beyond dialogue and focus on practical outcomes, calling for the mobilisation of private capital, effective use of development finance and the delivery of measurable economic impact.

He also highlighted the strengthening ties between Africa and the Arab world, pointing to shared history, complementary resources and growing economic interdependence.

The Gambian leader referenced initiatives such as the Arab-African Round Table and the Invest in Gambia Forum as platforms designed to translate cooperation into tangible, bankable projects by bringing together policymakers, financial institutions and private investors.

According to President Barrow, the participation of regional finance and trade ministers, business leaders, sovereign wealth fund managers and development finance institutions underscores the continental significance of the debate, particularly for capital-intensive sectors critical to Africa’s future growth.

Following his address, the president toured exhibition stands at the venue, where products from The Gambia, Senegal and other countries, including handicrafts, were on display.

The event brought together participants from 23 African countries, including Senegal, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Nigeria, Sierra Leone and South Africa, alongside representatives from France and several Arab nations.

The conference concludes on Friday evening with a gala ceremony honouring the 100 most influential African figures who have contributed significantly to shaping the continent’s economic landscape over the past year. Organisers said award recipients were selected through a rigorous process based on the impact of their leadership, decisions and contributions to Africa’s economic development.