The Gambia sent its first group of workers to Spain under a new legal migration program. Officials from both countries held a farewell ceremony Monday at the Trade Ministry building. Workers received final instructions and travel papers before leaving for agricultural jobs. The program helps people find legal work abroad instead of dangerous illegal trips. Spain and Gambia created this partnership to benefit both nations.
Twenty-four workers will pick fruits on farms near Barcelona. They received work contracts for specific time periods before returning home. Spanish officials said the workers can return for future seasons if they perform well. The program started after Spain's leader visited Gambia two years ago. Both governments spent months planning the worker exchange system.
Trade Ministry official Modou Secka told workers they represent their country. He said good behavior will help more Gambians get similar opportunities. Workers must follow their contracts and respect Spanish laws during their stay. Bad conduct could end the program for everyone else. Secka wants workers to save money and start businesses when they return home.
Spanish diplomat Violeta Insa Sandval welcomed the new workers to her country. She said Catalonia already has many Gambians living there. The workers will receive housing and training from their employers. A Gambian worker already in Spain will help them adjust to their new jobs. Fifty more workers will join the program within two weeks.
Twenty-four workers will pick fruits on farms near Barcelona. They received work contracts for specific time periods before returning home. Spanish officials said the workers can return for future seasons if they perform well. The program started after Spain's leader visited Gambia two years ago. Both governments spent months planning the worker exchange system.
Trade Ministry official Modou Secka told workers they represent their country. He said good behavior will help more Gambians get similar opportunities. Workers must follow their contracts and respect Spanish laws during their stay. Bad conduct could end the program for everyone else. Secka wants workers to save money and start businesses when they return home.
Spanish diplomat Violeta Insa Sandval welcomed the new workers to her country. She said Catalonia already has many Gambians living there. The workers will receive housing and training from their employers. A Gambian worker already in Spain will help them adjust to their new jobs. Fifty more workers will join the program within two weeks.
