People need water; glass is commonly used to carry water or liquid. You will be surprised to know the amount of glass generated each year. In 2023, it has been estimated that the production volume of glass bottles and containers worldwide was 743 billion units. A lot of Quartz Sand is needed to make glasses, and a factory uses several hundred tons of Quartz Sand daily. 

Gambia’s Mineral Wealth: Quartz Sand is mainly made up of oxygen and silica, which are available in the Gambia. Gambia is located in West Africa, and this small region is famous for its minerals. Gambia has quartz sand and Titanium, Rutile, Ilmenite, Laterite, Tin and Zircon, Kaolinic Clay, Plastic Clay, etc. These minerals have significance for many industries. An estimated 50 million tons of quartz Sand reserves are available in Gambia. Estimations by 2010 showed that laterite, ilmenite, and silica increased by 69%, 28%, and 6%, respectively.

Foreign investment in the Gambia mineral sector is increasing but relatively modest compared to other industries such as tourism and agriculture. The Gambia Investment and Export Promotion Agency, GIEPA, is critical in attracting foreign investors through incentives and investment facilitation. Because foreign investment in mineral mining, such as quartz sand, laterite, and kaolinitic clay, is possible.

Though the amount is average in Gambia, there is still a need for more investment interest. The main reason is that Gambia’s small market size hinders large-scale investors. Other factors are low literacy rate and lack of skilled labor, which present a less capable workforce for which investors have been craving. Even though efforts have been made to improve the investment climate, bureaucratic hurdles. Besides, there are challenges related to regulatory requirements that may perturb would-be investors. Fluctuating global economic conditions and competition from other resource-rich countries may also affect investment interests. 

Overcoming Challenges: Each person has a different calculation, but don’t forget about the rules of – 

“Score a goal in an empty field.”

Though these problems can seem like bigger ones, there is a solution for many small and modest large-scale investors. If investors take the initiative to provide education for their benefit, like giving workers primary education, literacy can be eliminated. This will benefit both the workers and the investors. By being educated, workers can do their jobs properly for the investors.

Few competitors exist in Gambia’s mineral sector, which is the primary reason for investors’ interest. Therefore, many investors have opportunities to shape their field with their hands.

So, what are you looking for? Just jump in & grab the opportunity. Remember the rules of first come, first served. But before investing, it’s crucial to know how these elements are used and where they can be found in Gambia.

Quartz Sand: Quartz sand is mainly found in the Greater Banjul Area. It is used in many industries, such as glass manufacturing, which produces high-quality glass. It’s also an essential ingredient in concrete and mortars. Foundries use it to Cast metals. It is also used as a base for producing silicon chips and wafers.

Laterite: Laterite is also available in many regions in Gambia. It is suitable for road construction and as a building block. It is also an additive in cement and improves soil properties for agriculture.

Titanium, Rutile, and Ilmenite: Titanium, Rutile, and Ilmenite are usually found in smaller quantities in a specific area. Rutile is a significant source of titanium dioxide, a crucial white pigment in paints and plastics. The pulp and paper industry uses it. Titanium metal is used in aerospace parts because of its strength combined with low weight. Rutile is used in welding rod coating.

Tin and zircon: Tin is used in electronic components and helps protect other metals against corrosion. Zircon is Used in glazes and ceramic manufacturing and is a material for use at high temperatures, such as in furnace linings.

Kaolinite clay: Kaolinite clay is usually Found in the Upper River Region. It is used to manufacture porcelain, tile, and sanitary ware. It is also used as a filler and coating to improve paper quality. Face masks and powders are prepared from it.

Plastic Clay: Alluvial clay deposits are widely distributed. Ceramics and allied ceramic products are prepared using this to improve paper’s smoothness, brightness, and printability. It is also a filler in plastics, further enhancing their properties.

Gambia’s main export partners usually include Guinea-Bissau, Mali, China, India, Senegal, and the United Kingdom. This mineral sector generates both direct and indirect employment opportunities. The Gambia Investment and Export Promotion Agency (GIEPA) has consistently helped to promote and facilitate private sector investment in the country. They have attracted foreign investors to explore and develop the country’s mineral resources. This is perfection for primarily small-scale investors who are willing to compete with competitors but want good quality elements to build an industry. It can be in the manufacturing, construction, or many other industries.  So take advantage of the perfect opportunity, and grab the advantages by investing in Gambia.