An innovative project seeks to transform disused school materials from the Canary Islands into a tool for training and development in Gambia. The initiative, driven by the Department of Education and the NGO Startup Gambia, involves the donation of 18 industrial sewing machines, sourced from Canary Islands Vocational Training equipment, to establish a Local Production and Technical Training Center in the African country.
The main objective is for these machines not only to teach a trade to young Gambians but also to lay the groundwork for local production capable of meeting specific national needs. These include the manufacturing and repair of uniforms, footwear, and professional equipment for the Armed Forces, firefighters, police, and other emergency and security services, which are currently imported.
This initiative is inspired by a successful previous experience. Two years ago, the Department donated seven sewing machines to the association for the Salvacostura project, which were then transferred to Gambia. After refurbishment, training was provided, and prototypes for life vests and rescue noodles were designed. These materials are costly in Spain and economically inaccessible in Gambia. Local production of these items resulted in savings of up to 80%.
The new phase of the project, which includes the shipment of materials in September, plans to train approximately 150 young people in the first year in the production of uniforms adapted to the climatic conditions of West Africa. The goal is to reduce import dependency and eventually establish a small local industry.
In addition to the sewing machines, the Department has donated other resources from Vocational Training centers, such as leatherworking machinery, industrial kitchen equipment, tools, and furniture, which will be used to develop future projects and equip clinics and schools in Gambia.
