Banking & Investment Strategy: Access Holdings says it has finished its major acquisition phase and now wants to be judged on profitability and shareholder value, aiming to benchmark itself against Africa’s biggest bank, Standard Bank. Capital Markets & SME Finance: With IPOs cooling in Nigeria, corporates are leaning into Commercial Papers, while LCCI and NASD push SMEs to use capital market funding by improving governance, audited accounts, and transparency. Food & Industry Development: The Gambia’s first Food and Drug Testing Laboratory was launched, as CGI and partners back stronger food safety and trade readiness. Construction Materials Supply: GAMGO and GAGO report successful basalt shipments from Cape Verde to support infrastructure works and reduce material shortages. Local Ownership Push: CBG Governor Buah Saidy warns that rising foreign ownership of businesses and properties could drain wealth from the country, urging Gambians to invest more at home. Agriculture & Training Links: Indonesia and The Gambia highlight renewed plans to upgrade the Jenoi Agricultural Rural Farmers Training Centre to boost skills in farming, innovation, and food security. Energy & Resources: The government signs an offshore Block A1 exploration deal with Eni, renewing attention on Gambia’s oil and gas prospects.