IFAJ publish NAC story
Two years and two months ago the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists invited me to attend the IFAJ congress in Sweden, through its Master Class program. The Master Class brought together young agricultural journalists from Asia, America, Europe and Africa which I was part off.
IFAJ paved the way for the formation of a national guild which is today growing. I commend Per Henrik Hansen, the secretary of the Danish Federation of Agricultural Journalists, for personally intervening when accessing a Swedish visa was a problem. His personal intervention was sending me an invitation to apply for a Danish visa which I got. He drove me from Copenhagen to Stockholm where the IFAJ congress was taking place. Read further on http://www.ifaj.org/news-blogs/news-detail/article/2014/12/02/title/gambia-forms.html?no_cache=1&cHash=1af0f26cb1626b318b912fab5c2b7fd7
I am acknowledging him and my fellow Master Class brothers and sisters from developing countries who inspired me to go back to our respective countries and regions and establish guilds. I took the initiative back to The Gambia and with my colleagues such as Amadou Jallow, a senior agricultural journalist in The Gambia; Dawda Bayo a freelance photographer as well as Seedy Darboe, Yaya B Baldeh and Nyima Jadama. These people thought the idea of forming a guild was long overdue. So we set to work.
This period also coincided with a period when we already started talking to the Danish Food and Agricultural Journalists about putting up a joint project to build the capacity of journalists in The Gambia. So the work was not terribly hard because I used what I learned in the Master Class workshop coupled with the guidance of our Danish partners. By November 2012, we managed to form our guild and called it, The Network Agricultural Communicators-NAC.
We sought and registered the network with the Attorney General Chambers as an association geared toward promoting agriculture. Our objective is to promote agriculture through improved agricultural journalism. This we know will be a challenge but we all hold the belief that with determination and support and the cooperation of all stakeholders, we can move mountains by shaping agriculture in The Gambia. And ultimately, NAC got its registration.
Our membership comprises employed journalists, freelancers, photographers, videographers and other agri-communicators. Our members are stationed in the Greater Banjul Area and are community radio journalists from the provinces, as well.
We wanted people to know of our existence so we met key agriculture stakeholders in The Gambia among them, key figures of the ministry of agriculture, NGOs in agriculture such as FAO, UNDP, The National Farmers Platform, Concern Universal, Action Aid, The Gambia and many more.
We did not stop there. We designed a project with our Danish partners-DFAJ to embark on a nationwide tour of farmers and farmer communities as well as the community radio stations across the country. This nationwide tour was a great success because we were knew the limitations of community radio stations when it comes to reporting agriculture. The trip also allowed the tour team to get to know more about the needs of farmers and how the media, especially radio, can be of great help to them. The tour team also met field workers who are mostly used as experts in most of the community radio stations. The tour ended up with a three-day conference with the theme how can improved agricultural journalism help reduce poverty and food insecurity. The tour and seminar gave prominence to NAC and its partner DFAJ because we were covered on TV, radio and newspapers.
The key word that came in during the entire tour and at the seminar was that journalists who report on agriculture need to be trained on effective reporting on agriculture. This came to NAC as a challenge, knowing there are very few schools offering journalism studies in this country, let alone training journalists on agricultural reporting. We are engaging the Gambia Press Union to provide us with a training series while we also continue to work with the DFAJ and its team of journalists in assisting Gambian journalists on effective and efficient reporting of agriculture in The Gambia, knowing about 80 per cent of the population work in the agriculture industry, 70 per cent of whom are women.
Today we are more than determined to engage all stakeholders in the agriculture industry to collaborate in the fight against poverty and food insecurity in The Gambia. It is difficult to do, especially in a country where nine out of 10 farmers are illiterate. This is why we have refocused our efforts in training agricultural communicators, especially community radio journalists, on how to present community driven agricultural programs with a goal of informing farmers on best practices and changing their attitudes. This we believe is the best and fastest way to impacting farming.
The challenges are numerous, but most notable among them is the lack of funds to offer training, and the lack of experts to train the agricultural journalists in the country. This is why we open up our doors to international cooperation with experienced journalists groups that report on agriculture, the IFAJ, international farmer organizations and non-governmental organizations in The Gambia for any form of technical support to build the capacity of our handicapped reporters.
We at NAC are determined to formalize our desire to join the IFAJ. In our view, the more we network with colleagues across the globe, the more our members will be exposed to the best practices which will impact on their work and eventually the farmers.
Today, we have built a blog which we intend to change into a website. We also have links on YouTube for some of our completed activities.
written by Sang Mendy (2012 IFAJ Master Class fellow)
IFAJ paved the way for the formation of a national guild which is today growing. I commend Per Henrik Hansen, the secretary of the Danish Federation of Agricultural Journalists, for personally intervening when accessing a Swedish visa was a problem. His personal intervention was sending me an invitation to apply for a Danish visa which I got. He drove me from Copenhagen to Stockholm where the IFAJ congress was taking place. Read further on http://www.ifaj.org/news-blogs/news-detail/article/2014/12/02/title/gambia-forms.html?no_cache=1&cHash=1af0f26cb1626b318b912fab5c2b7fd7
I am acknowledging him and my fellow Master Class brothers and sisters from developing countries who inspired me to go back to our respective countries and regions and establish guilds. I took the initiative back to The Gambia and with my colleagues such as Amadou Jallow, a senior agricultural journalist in The Gambia; Dawda Bayo a freelance photographer as well as Seedy Darboe, Yaya B Baldeh and Nyima Jadama. These people thought the idea of forming a guild was long overdue. So we set to work.
This period also coincided with a period when we already started talking to the Danish Food and Agricultural Journalists about putting up a joint project to build the capacity of journalists in The Gambia. So the work was not terribly hard because I used what I learned in the Master Class workshop coupled with the guidance of our Danish partners. By November 2012, we managed to form our guild and called it, The Network Agricultural Communicators-NAC.
We sought and registered the network with the Attorney General Chambers as an association geared toward promoting agriculture. Our objective is to promote agriculture through improved agricultural journalism. This we know will be a challenge but we all hold the belief that with determination and support and the cooperation of all stakeholders, we can move mountains by shaping agriculture in The Gambia. And ultimately, NAC got its registration.
Our membership comprises employed journalists, freelancers, photographers, videographers and other agri-communicators. Our members are stationed in the Greater Banjul Area and are community radio journalists from the provinces, as well.
We wanted people to know of our existence so we met key agriculture stakeholders in The Gambia among them, key figures of the ministry of agriculture, NGOs in agriculture such as FAO, UNDP, The National Farmers Platform, Concern Universal, Action Aid, The Gambia and many more.
We did not stop there. We designed a project with our Danish partners-DFAJ to embark on a nationwide tour of farmers and farmer communities as well as the community radio stations across the country. This nationwide tour was a great success because we were knew the limitations of community radio stations when it comes to reporting agriculture. The trip also allowed the tour team to get to know more about the needs of farmers and how the media, especially radio, can be of great help to them. The tour team also met field workers who are mostly used as experts in most of the community radio stations. The tour ended up with a three-day conference with the theme how can improved agricultural journalism help reduce poverty and food insecurity. The tour and seminar gave prominence to NAC and its partner DFAJ because we were covered on TV, radio and newspapers.
The key word that came in during the entire tour and at the seminar was that journalists who report on agriculture need to be trained on effective reporting on agriculture. This came to NAC as a challenge, knowing there are very few schools offering journalism studies in this country, let alone training journalists on agricultural reporting. We are engaging the Gambia Press Union to provide us with a training series while we also continue to work with the DFAJ and its team of journalists in assisting Gambian journalists on effective and efficient reporting of agriculture in The Gambia, knowing about 80 per cent of the population work in the agriculture industry, 70 per cent of whom are women.
Today we are more than determined to engage all stakeholders in the agriculture industry to collaborate in the fight against poverty and food insecurity in The Gambia. It is difficult to do, especially in a country where nine out of 10 farmers are illiterate. This is why we have refocused our efforts in training agricultural communicators, especially community radio journalists, on how to present community driven agricultural programs with a goal of informing farmers on best practices and changing their attitudes. This we believe is the best and fastest way to impacting farming.
The challenges are numerous, but most notable among them is the lack of funds to offer training, and the lack of experts to train the agricultural journalists in the country. This is why we open up our doors to international cooperation with experienced journalists groups that report on agriculture, the IFAJ, international farmer organizations and non-governmental organizations in The Gambia for any form of technical support to build the capacity of our handicapped reporters.
We at NAC are determined to formalize our desire to join the IFAJ. In our view, the more we network with colleagues across the globe, the more our members will be exposed to the best practices which will impact on their work and eventually the farmers.
Today, we have built a blog which we intend to change into a website. We also have links on YouTube for some of our completed activities.
written by Sang Mendy (2012 IFAJ Master Class fellow)
Salt water intrusion threatens food insecurity
Horticulturists mainly women in Bakau are worried about the persistent salt intrusion into their vegetable gardens and rice fields and how the unfortunate scenario undermines agricultural production and productivity in their area.
The salt water intrusion into the rice fields and the Women horticultural garden at mile seven has stifled agricultural production in the area with over 40 rice fields abandoned during the last rainy season, as result of salt water intrusion, which made the fields unfit for rice production.
These concerns were captured on the Daily Observer Newspaper.
Environmentalists on the other hand said Agricultural production will be seriously undermined in the area in the next few years if the situation persists.
Farmers however lamented that the intrusion of salt water in their fields is caused by a blockage at the small bridge along the Old Cape Road that controls the movement of sea water in the area particularly during low and high tides. The bridge constructed by the British in 1910 operates on a special machine, which has not been functioning in recent times.
The salination of fresh water, as we observed, is also threatening the biodiversity with mangroves in the area dying at a large-scale. The inhabitants of the town said they had since reported the matter to the relevant authorities for possible intervention with a view to arresting the situation.
It is a glaring fact that greater number of women in Central Bakau highly depend on agriculture for sustainable economic advancement. It is no secrete that most of them spend the proceeds of their labour in the feeding, clothing, education and general welfare of their children.
“It is a serious matter and we want the concern authorities to act and arrest the situation,” said Masunding Drammeh- a horticulturist, as she tries to explain how dire the status quo is affecting efforts towards food security in the area.
“This is where we get our livelihood so if the situation persists many of us will really suffer,” she said. She explained that the matter has been reported to the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), but that they are yet to receive any satisfactory response from the agency.
She indicated that the condition has forced them to abandoned a vast area of land during the last rainy season and that the situation is getting worst by the day. “The salt water is coming rapidly and it is very worrying because we don’t know what to do with it,” she noted.
“We do not rely on mangroves for economic importance a lone, but it also serves as a breeding ground for fish and habitat for many other creatures.
“Mangroves serve as home for juvenile fish until maturity and other than that they give out the best form of oxygen, as well as controls the salt system of the water.
“The Gambia, in recent times is facing a daunting task in averting the disappearance of our natural heritage, particularly mangroves which are not easy to manage.
“The disappearance of mangrove swamps could have devastating consequences on the nation’s biodiversity, if no action is taken.
Culled from The Daily Observe
The salt water intrusion into the rice fields and the Women horticultural garden at mile seven has stifled agricultural production in the area with over 40 rice fields abandoned during the last rainy season, as result of salt water intrusion, which made the fields unfit for rice production.
These concerns were captured on the Daily Observer Newspaper.
Environmentalists on the other hand said Agricultural production will be seriously undermined in the area in the next few years if the situation persists.
Farmers however lamented that the intrusion of salt water in their fields is caused by a blockage at the small bridge along the Old Cape Road that controls the movement of sea water in the area particularly during low and high tides. The bridge constructed by the British in 1910 operates on a special machine, which has not been functioning in recent times.
The salination of fresh water, as we observed, is also threatening the biodiversity with mangroves in the area dying at a large-scale. The inhabitants of the town said they had since reported the matter to the relevant authorities for possible intervention with a view to arresting the situation.
It is a glaring fact that greater number of women in Central Bakau highly depend on agriculture for sustainable economic advancement. It is no secrete that most of them spend the proceeds of their labour in the feeding, clothing, education and general welfare of their children.
“It is a serious matter and we want the concern authorities to act and arrest the situation,” said Masunding Drammeh- a horticulturist, as she tries to explain how dire the status quo is affecting efforts towards food security in the area.
“This is where we get our livelihood so if the situation persists many of us will really suffer,” she said. She explained that the matter has been reported to the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), but that they are yet to receive any satisfactory response from the agency.
She indicated that the condition has forced them to abandoned a vast area of land during the last rainy season and that the situation is getting worst by the day. “The salt water is coming rapidly and it is very worrying because we don’t know what to do with it,” she noted.
“We do not rely on mangroves for economic importance a lone, but it also serves as a breeding ground for fish and habitat for many other creatures.
“Mangroves serve as home for juvenile fish until maturity and other than that they give out the best form of oxygen, as well as controls the salt system of the water.
“The Gambia, in recent times is facing a daunting task in averting the disappearance of our natural heritage, particularly mangroves which are not easy to manage.
“The disappearance of mangrove swamps could have devastating consequences on the nation’s biodiversity, if no action is taken.
Culled from The Daily Observe
NAC President calls Agric-Communicators to do more
By Sang Mendy
The president of the Network of Agricultural Communicators (NAC), Amadou Jallow has recently urged journalists and other agricultural communicators to try as much as they can to genuinely conduct themselves and represent the best interest of the people.
“We must all focus attention on the promotion of the best agricultural practices in the country,” he said.
Amadou revealed that NAC has a vision to transform the country’s agricultural methods by training journalists on the best reporting procedures on agriculture to be able to provide expert advice to farmers, with a view to empowering and helping them to improve their yields.
According to him, in 2012, NAC and its partners the Danish Food and Agricultural Journalists (DFAJ) conducted ten-days training for agricultural journalists in The Gambia. At that training, he added, it was realized that most of the journalists lacked the technical know how in reporting on agricultural related issues, as well as the ability to angle their news stories to address the needs of farmers.
“The fight against poverty and food insecurity is a formidable challenge that cannot be achieved in isolation. Journalists as major contributors to the development of the nation must bear in mind that a single responsible report on agricultural matters could effect robust changes in the sector,” he added.
He further said, “I am without doubt that if we communicate effectively, we will transform The Gambia to be a food self-sufficient nation. In this way we will realize President Jammeh’s call for Gambian’s to grow what they eat and eat what they grow.”
Jallow thanked the government of The Gambia, their Danish partners and the Gambia Press Union board for their continued commitment and dedication to the wellbeing and development of Gambian journalists.
The president of the Network of Agricultural Communicators (NAC), Amadou Jallow has recently urged journalists and other agricultural communicators to try as much as they can to genuinely conduct themselves and represent the best interest of the people.
“We must all focus attention on the promotion of the best agricultural practices in the country,” he said.
Amadou revealed that NAC has a vision to transform the country’s agricultural methods by training journalists on the best reporting procedures on agriculture to be able to provide expert advice to farmers, with a view to empowering and helping them to improve their yields.
According to him, in 2012, NAC and its partners the Danish Food and Agricultural Journalists (DFAJ) conducted ten-days training for agricultural journalists in The Gambia. At that training, he added, it was realized that most of the journalists lacked the technical know how in reporting on agricultural related issues, as well as the ability to angle their news stories to address the needs of farmers.
“The fight against poverty and food insecurity is a formidable challenge that cannot be achieved in isolation. Journalists as major contributors to the development of the nation must bear in mind that a single responsible report on agricultural matters could effect robust changes in the sector,” he added.
He further said, “I am without doubt that if we communicate effectively, we will transform The Gambia to be a food self-sufficient nation. In this way we will realize President Jammeh’s call for Gambian’s to grow what they eat and eat what they grow.”
Jallow thanked the government of The Gambia, their Danish partners and the Gambia Press Union board for their continued commitment and dedication to the wellbeing and development of Gambian journalists.
NAC to embark on nationwide agricultural research trip
By Sang Mendy
The Network of Agricultural Communicators (NAC) The Gambia and their Danish partners, Danish Food and Agricultural Journalists will on Monday 3 to Thursday 6 March 2014, dispatch a four-man delegation to embark on a nationwide research trip to farmer communities and community radio stations within the country.
The trip is intended to establish the missing links between the farmers and journalists, knowing the importance of the media in the socio-economic development of the nation.
The trip follows the two partners’ conduction of a ten-day training programme for agricultural journalists in The Gambia in 2013. At that training, it was realised that most of the journalists lack the technical know-how to report on agriculture, as well as the ability to angle their news stories to address the needs of the farmers. It was also noticed that unless a thorough research is conducted, the needs of farmers cannot be known, talkless of being addressed by the journalists.
The four-day research trip will be followed by a three-day seminar on the theme “How can improved agri-journalism help fight poverty and food insecurity in The Gambia”. The seminar will be held from 11th to 13th March 2014, at the Djeliba Hotel in Kololi.
During the trip, the network members and their Danish partners will visit agricultural centres, such as Njawara Agricultural Training Centre, Chamen Training Centre and Chamen Nianija Agricultural Centre in North Bank Region, farmer communities in the regions, as well as community radio stations across the country.
Two members of the Danish Food and Agricultural Journalist (DFAJ) will be arriving in the country tomorrow and will be received by their Gambian counterparts for the implementation of the project.
Speaking ahead of the trip and seminar, Amadou Jallow, the president of the network who is a senior reporter at the Daily Observer said “Our target is to collect information about the needs of farmers for agricultural knowledge.” According to him, they also intend to collect information about the needs of journalists for new skills and competences, as well as gain knowledge of radio stations’ cooperation opportunities and demands for cooperation.
The tour team, he added, will also obtain information about radio stations’ technology and the potential need for new technology. “On the trip, we also intend to obtain knowledge about what it takes for radio stations to produce more and better programmes on agriculture,” he stated.
Jallow noted that the network is established to serve agricultural editors, writers, photographers and communicators, who qualify for active membership, by ensuring an open exchange of ideas and fostering professional excellence, both in The Gambia and internationally.
He however thanked the Danish government, through the Danish Food and Agricultural Journalist (DFAJ) for funding the project, stating that the project will complement President Jammeh’s call for people to go back-to-the-land.
According to him, the media is the right tool to propagate the president’s call for Gambians to ‘grow what they eat and eat what they grow’.
The Network of Agricultural Communicators (NAC) The Gambia and their Danish partners, Danish Food and Agricultural Journalists will on Monday 3 to Thursday 6 March 2014, dispatch a four-man delegation to embark on a nationwide research trip to farmer communities and community radio stations within the country.
The trip is intended to establish the missing links between the farmers and journalists, knowing the importance of the media in the socio-economic development of the nation.
The trip follows the two partners’ conduction of a ten-day training programme for agricultural journalists in The Gambia in 2013. At that training, it was realised that most of the journalists lack the technical know-how to report on agriculture, as well as the ability to angle their news stories to address the needs of the farmers. It was also noticed that unless a thorough research is conducted, the needs of farmers cannot be known, talkless of being addressed by the journalists.
The four-day research trip will be followed by a three-day seminar on the theme “How can improved agri-journalism help fight poverty and food insecurity in The Gambia”. The seminar will be held from 11th to 13th March 2014, at the Djeliba Hotel in Kololi.
During the trip, the network members and their Danish partners will visit agricultural centres, such as Njawara Agricultural Training Centre, Chamen Training Centre and Chamen Nianija Agricultural Centre in North Bank Region, farmer communities in the regions, as well as community radio stations across the country.
Two members of the Danish Food and Agricultural Journalist (DFAJ) will be arriving in the country tomorrow and will be received by their Gambian counterparts for the implementation of the project.
Speaking ahead of the trip and seminar, Amadou Jallow, the president of the network who is a senior reporter at the Daily Observer said “Our target is to collect information about the needs of farmers for agricultural knowledge.” According to him, they also intend to collect information about the needs of journalists for new skills and competences, as well as gain knowledge of radio stations’ cooperation opportunities and demands for cooperation.
The tour team, he added, will also obtain information about radio stations’ technology and the potential need for new technology. “On the trip, we also intend to obtain knowledge about what it takes for radio stations to produce more and better programmes on agriculture,” he stated.
Jallow noted that the network is established to serve agricultural editors, writers, photographers and communicators, who qualify for active membership, by ensuring an open exchange of ideas and fostering professional excellence, both in The Gambia and internationally.
He however thanked the Danish government, through the Danish Food and Agricultural Journalist (DFAJ) for funding the project, stating that the project will complement President Jammeh’s call for people to go back-to-the-land.
According to him, the media is the right tool to propagate the president’s call for Gambians to ‘grow what they eat and eat what they grow’.
Agricultural News
Gambia at risk losing 200, 000 heads of cattle says an Agric expert
Lamin Saine has disclosed that The Gambia is at risk of losing about 200, 000 heads of cattle the Daily Observer has revealed. Lamin Saine is the head of the Crisis Management Centre of the Animal Health Division of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation in Rome, Italy.
His comments have come in the wake of an animal health emergency declaration made by the government of The Gambia through the Ministry of Agriculture.
The Daily Observer stated that the expert told stakeholders that following the confirmation of a Contagious Bovine Pleuro Pneumonia (CBPP) disease outbreak in the country, the Agriculture ministry has launched the CBPP Rapid Response Task Force to look into the control mechanism and strategies to control the situation as soon as possible. Thus, he noted, that they have been assigned to sensitise the regional authorities and TAC members throughout the country.
Saine went on to explain that the disease in question, CBPP, is caused by Mycoplasma Mycoides Var Mycoides bacterium. The government, he informed, is coming up with a lot of strategies to eliminate the disease. Part of the measures to be adopted, according to him will include sensitising the farmers and to vaccinate the entire cattle population in the country.
While urging the local authorities and farmers to help them in restricting animals’ movement till the end of the vaccination when it begins, Saine assured that the FAO is now helping the country in halting the disease. His said they anticipate starting the nationwide cattle vaccination by the first week of December. He however advised farmers to stop the movement of cattle from one region to another until when the vaccination is being completed.
The senior Agric officer went on to explain that T1 44 is the type of vaccination they are going to use, which he added can at least protect the animals for one year before another one is conducted.
His comments have come in the wake of an animal health emergency declaration made by the government of The Gambia through the Ministry of Agriculture.
The Daily Observer stated that the expert told stakeholders that following the confirmation of a Contagious Bovine Pleuro Pneumonia (CBPP) disease outbreak in the country, the Agriculture ministry has launched the CBPP Rapid Response Task Force to look into the control mechanism and strategies to control the situation as soon as possible. Thus, he noted, that they have been assigned to sensitise the regional authorities and TAC members throughout the country.
Saine went on to explain that the disease in question, CBPP, is caused by Mycoplasma Mycoides Var Mycoides bacterium. The government, he informed, is coming up with a lot of strategies to eliminate the disease. Part of the measures to be adopted, according to him will include sensitising the farmers and to vaccinate the entire cattle population in the country.
While urging the local authorities and farmers to help them in restricting animals’ movement till the end of the vaccination when it begins, Saine assured that the FAO is now helping the country in halting the disease. His said they anticipate starting the nationwide cattle vaccination by the first week of December. He however advised farmers to stop the movement of cattle from one region to another until when the vaccination is being completed.
The senior Agric officer went on to explain that T1 44 is the type of vaccination they are going to use, which he added can at least protect the animals for one year before another one is conducted.
One ton of groundnut pegged at D10, 450
The price for one ton of groundnut has been pegged at ten thousand, four hundred and fifty dalasi (D10, 450) for the 2012/13 groundnut marketing season. This year’s price determined by The Agribusiness Service and Producers’ Association (ASPA), in consultation with the government of The Gambia shows an increase of D1, 150 over last year’s price.
In a press release issued by ASPA, the 2012/13 groundnut marketing season in The Gambia will start on December 3rd and close on March 15th, 2013.
The release reads further call on all Cooperative Produce Marketing Societies (CPMS), private traders and any agent wishing to participate in groundnut buying at primary (Secco) level are hereby requested to prepare their equipment and clean their seccos accordingly.
However, groundnut producers are hereby assured that this year’s producer price was arrived at using the officially recognised producer price determination mechanism, which takes into account the World Market prices for groundnut products as well as parameters and ratios relevant to the domestic marketing system.
Farmers are therefore urged to sell their produce through the existing marketing outlets. Once again, ASPA solicits the cooperation of all and sundry to make the marketing season a success.
In a press release issued by ASPA, the 2012/13 groundnut marketing season in The Gambia will start on December 3rd and close on March 15th, 2013.
The release reads further call on all Cooperative Produce Marketing Societies (CPMS), private traders and any agent wishing to participate in groundnut buying at primary (Secco) level are hereby requested to prepare their equipment and clean their seccos accordingly.
However, groundnut producers are hereby assured that this year’s producer price was arrived at using the officially recognised producer price determination mechanism, which takes into account the World Market prices for groundnut products as well as parameters and ratios relevant to the domestic marketing system.
Farmers are therefore urged to sell their produce through the existing marketing outlets. Once again, ASPA solicits the cooperation of all and sundry to make the marketing season a success.
WFP commit to eradicate hunger
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) have reaffirmed its dedication to work with communities, civil society, governments and the private in a bid to end hunger in the world. WFP made these commitments as the world celebrates World Food Day, October 16, 2012.
Over the last year, communities on almost every continent have felt the devastating impacts of high food prices, natural disasters, climate emergencies and conflict, which have exacerbated hunger and poverty. Fortunately, working with partners across the globe WFP’s food assistance has brought hope and relief to millions.
“WFP faces many challenges as we work to ensure that the hungry poor receive the right food at the right time,” said WFP Executive Director Ertharin Cousin.
“From the Sahel region stricken by the third drought in recent years, to unrest in the Middle East, to communities whose imported staple foods have become inaccessibly expensive, WFP delivers life-saving food assistance where it is needed most.”
In 2011, WFP reached almost 100 million people in 75 countries, including over 11 million children who received special nutritional support and 23 million children who received school meals or take-home rations.
The theme of this year’s World Food Day is “Agricultural cooperatives—key to feeding the world.” WFP through the European Union funded component 5 of the Smallholder Commercialization Programme, works with Agricultural Business Centres and farmers organizations providing food for work, cash for work and food for training for infrastructure projects such as the rehabilitation of inland valley swamps, regeneration of coffee and cocoa plantations, and repair of feeder roads .
WFP in many countries around the world, continues to provide training to small holder farmers to help them improve crop quality, strengthen business practices and increase access to markets.
WFP celebrates World Food Day along with its sister UN food agencies, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The three Rome-based agencies often work closely together to invest in and boost the production of smallholder farmers and increase people’s access to nutritious food.
Over the last year, communities on almost every continent have felt the devastating impacts of high food prices, natural disasters, climate emergencies and conflict, which have exacerbated hunger and poverty. Fortunately, working with partners across the globe WFP’s food assistance has brought hope and relief to millions.
“WFP faces many challenges as we work to ensure that the hungry poor receive the right food at the right time,” said WFP Executive Director Ertharin Cousin.
“From the Sahel region stricken by the third drought in recent years, to unrest in the Middle East, to communities whose imported staple foods have become inaccessibly expensive, WFP delivers life-saving food assistance where it is needed most.”
In 2011, WFP reached almost 100 million people in 75 countries, including over 11 million children who received special nutritional support and 23 million children who received school meals or take-home rations.
The theme of this year’s World Food Day is “Agricultural cooperatives—key to feeding the world.” WFP through the European Union funded component 5 of the Smallholder Commercialization Programme, works with Agricultural Business Centres and farmers organizations providing food for work, cash for work and food for training for infrastructure projects such as the rehabilitation of inland valley swamps, regeneration of coffee and cocoa plantations, and repair of feeder roads .
WFP in many countries around the world, continues to provide training to small holder farmers to help them improve crop quality, strengthen business practices and increase access to markets.
WFP celebrates World Food Day along with its sister UN food agencies, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The three Rome-based agencies often work closely together to invest in and boost the production of smallholder farmers and increase people’s access to nutritious food.
African and Global Leaders Partner to Drive Agricultural Growth in Africa
As African Green Revolution Forum Commences in Arusha, Tanzania
African heads of state, ministers, private sector representatives, the international community and farmers gathered at the African Green Revolution Forum (AGRF) (http://www.agrforum.com) in Arusha to identify concrete actions for transforming Africa’s agricultural sector.
AGRF 2012 is the global platform for the promotion of the significant private sector investment and policy support needed to increase agricultural productivity and income growth for the African agricultural sector.
As host of the forum, H.E. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, President of the United Republic of Tanzania commented to forum attendees on Africa’s promising future.
“We are poised to succeed in our quest for eradicating hunger and poverty in Africa through transforming agriculture,” said President Kikwete. “With the right policy mix, appropriate interventions being taken by African Governments, the continued support of donors, and robust participation of private sector both local and foreign, transformation of agriculture in Africa is an achievable undertaking.”
Opening the forum, Kofi Annan, Chairman of the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) underscored the progress that has been achieved since the inaugural AGRF in 2010. Mr. Annan also stressed the importance of empowering smallholder farmers to help them advance towards business-oriented agriculture.
“Our focus on improving the productivity and profitability of smallholder farmers – most of whom are women – cannot waver. They are the ones who put food on our tables. They are the ones who care for our land and water resources,” said Mr. Annan. “In the end, they will be the ones to propel the economic growth and development of Africa in the 21st century.”
Melinda Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, who was in Arusha to address forum attendees, noted the significant progress that has been made in African agriculture over the past decade, and appealed for continued support from African leaders.
“I urge Africa’s leaders to re-commit to your pledge to help farm families increase their productivity. I urge you to set an agenda for the next decade that is even more ambitious,” said Ms. Gates. “I hope you take great care that your pledges and plans are geared to help farm families achieve their goals.”
African heads of state, ministers, private sector representatives, the international community and farmers gathered at the African Green Revolution Forum (AGRF) (http://www.agrforum.com) in Arusha to identify concrete actions for transforming Africa’s agricultural sector.
AGRF 2012 is the global platform for the promotion of the significant private sector investment and policy support needed to increase agricultural productivity and income growth for the African agricultural sector.
As host of the forum, H.E. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, President of the United Republic of Tanzania commented to forum attendees on Africa’s promising future.
“We are poised to succeed in our quest for eradicating hunger and poverty in Africa through transforming agriculture,” said President Kikwete. “With the right policy mix, appropriate interventions being taken by African Governments, the continued support of donors, and robust participation of private sector both local and foreign, transformation of agriculture in Africa is an achievable undertaking.”
Opening the forum, Kofi Annan, Chairman of the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) underscored the progress that has been achieved since the inaugural AGRF in 2010. Mr. Annan also stressed the importance of empowering smallholder farmers to help them advance towards business-oriented agriculture.
“Our focus on improving the productivity and profitability of smallholder farmers – most of whom are women – cannot waver. They are the ones who put food on our tables. They are the ones who care for our land and water resources,” said Mr. Annan. “In the end, they will be the ones to propel the economic growth and development of Africa in the 21st century.”
Melinda Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, who was in Arusha to address forum attendees, noted the significant progress that has been made in African agriculture over the past decade, and appealed for continued support from African leaders.
“I urge Africa’s leaders to re-commit to your pledge to help farm families increase their productivity. I urge you to set an agenda for the next decade that is even more ambitious,” said Ms. Gates. “I hope you take great care that your pledges and plans are geared to help farm families achieve their goals.”
Seed production quality assurance training underway
Training aimed to enhance seed production and quality assurance by trainees training farmers
Sixty extension workers and representatives from the NGOs and community-based organizations are currently undergoing a five-day training on seed production quality assurance.
The training is geared towards building the capacity of extension workers and representatives of community based organizations on seed production and quality assurance. The question though is when will farmers actually be exposed to such training.
At the end of the training, participants are expected to train others in the best practices learnt.
The training is being organized by the National Agricultural Research Institutes (NARI) under the auspices of the West African Agricultural Productivity Programs (WAAPP).
In his opening remarks, WAAPP Country Coordinator Sheikh Tijan Sosseh urged participants to make the best out of the training.
According to him, the turnout shows how committed and dedication participants are on the issues affecting farmers.
He said the purpose of this capacity training is to sensitize the extension workers and build their capacity geared towards improving farmer productivity advising them to adopt best practices.
Mr Sosseh said, “Extension workers are very instrumental in the implementation of the WAAPP programmes.”
He noted that increasing farmers’ yield would require collective responsibility by all actors to ensure that farmers achieve high yield.
WAAPP, he said, “is complementing the seed multiplication center in the country which GEAPP has already started.”
For his part, the director of research at NARI, Dr Lamin Jobe, said it is very important to build the capacity of extension workers who are at the grassroots level dealing with the farmers directly.
He also used the opportunity to urge the participants to actively participate in this five-day training, while much is expected from them at the end of the day.
Sixty extension workers and representatives from the NGOs and community-based organizations are currently undergoing a five-day training on seed production quality assurance.
The training is geared towards building the capacity of extension workers and representatives of community based organizations on seed production and quality assurance. The question though is when will farmers actually be exposed to such training.
At the end of the training, participants are expected to train others in the best practices learnt.
The training is being organized by the National Agricultural Research Institutes (NARI) under the auspices of the West African Agricultural Productivity Programs (WAAPP).
In his opening remarks, WAAPP Country Coordinator Sheikh Tijan Sosseh urged participants to make the best out of the training.
According to him, the turnout shows how committed and dedication participants are on the issues affecting farmers.
He said the purpose of this capacity training is to sensitize the extension workers and build their capacity geared towards improving farmer productivity advising them to adopt best practices.
Mr Sosseh said, “Extension workers are very instrumental in the implementation of the WAAPP programmes.”
He noted that increasing farmers’ yield would require collective responsibility by all actors to ensure that farmers achieve high yield.
WAAPP, he said, “is complementing the seed multiplication center in the country which GEAPP has already started.”
For his part, the director of research at NARI, Dr Lamin Jobe, said it is very important to build the capacity of extension workers who are at the grassroots level dealing with the farmers directly.
He also used the opportunity to urge the participants to actively participate in this five-day training, while much is expected from them at the end of the day.
BAT- “Tobacco farming is not dangerous”
BAT sets the record straight after reports claim that tobacco farming exposes farmers to health problems
The British American Tobacco (BAT) has said that tobacco farming is not dangerous. BAT representative Peter Dawson and Kate Matrimola made these remarks before pressmen and women from Africa and Latin America who were in Sweden for a Master Class which preceded the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists annual congress.
In her attempts to set the records straight Kate Matrimola said there is an unnecessary rumour going around the world that tobacco farming could cause health problems to farmers but series of studies have it that those are false allegations and unfounded.
Kate said her company has spent a lot of money on research to come up with these facts.
“We have spent over 2billion dollars on research to ascertain such facts. We sponsored independent researchers who came up an independent report that those claims that tobacco farming could be dangerous are not true and unfounded.”
Peter Dawson on his part said that the farmer has always been at the heart of what BAT does as a business. He said BAT has always trained tobacco farmers on health and safety.
“We care about the health of tobacco farmers so we advise them to use machineries safely, use their personal protections such as gloves and any other gargets necessary for their job.”
He added that BAT does not only see the health of their farmers but they are cognizant of the need to protect the land and the environment.
“We work directly with farmers without middlemen. We empower them and give them good chances of making the most of their farms while preserving the environment.
The British American Tobacco (BAT) has said that tobacco farming is not dangerous. BAT representative Peter Dawson and Kate Matrimola made these remarks before pressmen and women from Africa and Latin America who were in Sweden for a Master Class which preceded the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists annual congress.
In her attempts to set the records straight Kate Matrimola said there is an unnecessary rumour going around the world that tobacco farming could cause health problems to farmers but series of studies have it that those are false allegations and unfounded.
Kate said her company has spent a lot of money on research to come up with these facts.
“We have spent over 2billion dollars on research to ascertain such facts. We sponsored independent researchers who came up an independent report that those claims that tobacco farming could be dangerous are not true and unfounded.”
Peter Dawson on his part said that the farmer has always been at the heart of what BAT does as a business. He said BAT has always trained tobacco farmers on health and safety.
“We care about the health of tobacco farmers so we advise them to use machineries safely, use their personal protections such as gloves and any other gargets necessary for their job.”
He added that BAT does not only see the health of their farmers but they are cognizant of the need to protect the land and the environment.
“We work directly with farmers without middlemen. We empower them and give them good chances of making the most of their farms while preserving the environment.
New media can improve food production-Swedish journalist
If agricultural journalists use it wisely and not just to chat or post photographs
Swedish freelance journalist, Peter Streifort has said that the use of new media such as Facebook, You Tube, Twitter, Google Plus and many more can contribute immensely to food production at a time when the World is struggling to meet food demand.
Peter was speaking to a group of journalists who were in Sweden on a three day agricultural Mater Class organized by Agriterra, a Dutch base farmer cooperative.
Speaking on the opportunities, possibilities and pitfalls of social media Streifort said, if social media is used wisely it can go a long way in meeting food demand.
“If a journalist use social media for information sharing, people will be well informed about issues and then make informed choices,” Streifort said.
He cited himself as an example saying, “I used Facebook to sell myself and today I am among the most celebrated Swedish men.
“I started posting about food challenging restaurants on the way they cook their food and the number of hours they spent cooking.
“From then on I got lots of followers and today I can boast that Facebook has made me a famous man and has also given me a job I can rely on.
“I authored books on food; I am also called to give lectures of food in colleges and universities. This is because of social media.”
He urged journalists most of whom were agricultural journalists to also use social media in their work to popularize their work and also to inform farmers, businessmen, decision makers and policy makers’ market prices, new innovations, and many more.
“In this way you will achieve your objective and contribute to the putting food on the tables around the world.”
He said, “If the rural farmer can access the internet, it would also be a good idea to use social media to inform them.”
Swedish freelance journalist, Peter Streifort has said that the use of new media such as Facebook, You Tube, Twitter, Google Plus and many more can contribute immensely to food production at a time when the World is struggling to meet food demand.
Peter was speaking to a group of journalists who were in Sweden on a three day agricultural Mater Class organized by Agriterra, a Dutch base farmer cooperative.
Speaking on the opportunities, possibilities and pitfalls of social media Streifort said, if social media is used wisely it can go a long way in meeting food demand.
“If a journalist use social media for information sharing, people will be well informed about issues and then make informed choices,” Streifort said.
He cited himself as an example saying, “I used Facebook to sell myself and today I am among the most celebrated Swedish men.
“I started posting about food challenging restaurants on the way they cook their food and the number of hours they spent cooking.
“From then on I got lots of followers and today I can boast that Facebook has made me a famous man and has also given me a job I can rely on.
“I authored books on food; I am also called to give lectures of food in colleges and universities. This is because of social media.”
He urged journalists most of whom were agricultural journalists to also use social media in their work to popularize their work and also to inform farmers, businessmen, decision makers and policy makers’ market prices, new innovations, and many more.
“In this way you will achieve your objective and contribute to the putting food on the tables around the world.”
He said, “If the rural farmer can access the internet, it would also be a good idea to use social media to inform them.”
Livestock dealers warn to maintain meat prices
Ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, butchers and livestock dealers have been warned to maintain the prices of meat and bone to D100 and steak to. The call was made by the director general of The Gambia Livestock Marketing Agency (GLMA), Demba Jallow.
Demba Jallow warned butchers and livestock dealers to refrain from the habit of random increment of livestock and meat prices, particularly during the Holy Month of Ramadan. He then urged them to be honest and sympathetic to their clients.
“We are not depriving anybody from doing business in the country, what we require of people in business is to maintain the habit of honesty, accuracy and steadfastness in their business transactions,” he stated.
The GLMA director stated that butchers take advantage of the high demand for meat during the month of Ramadan to manipulate meat price through random increment, as well as cheating through the weighing scale.
“This act is unacceptable, the police cannot be everywhere, everybody has a role to play by reporting any act of malpractice to the nearest police station,” he further stated.
He added: “If you know that the price of the livestock you intend to purchase is exorbitant, do not go in for it, instead buy cattle which you think will earn you some profit after selling the meat.”
Demba Jallow warned butchers and livestock dealers to refrain from the habit of random increment of livestock and meat prices, particularly during the Holy Month of Ramadan. He then urged them to be honest and sympathetic to their clients.
“We are not depriving anybody from doing business in the country, what we require of people in business is to maintain the habit of honesty, accuracy and steadfastness in their business transactions,” he stated.
The GLMA director stated that butchers take advantage of the high demand for meat during the month of Ramadan to manipulate meat price through random increment, as well as cheating through the weighing scale.
“This act is unacceptable, the police cannot be everywhere, everybody has a role to play by reporting any act of malpractice to the nearest police station,” he further stated.
He added: “If you know that the price of the livestock you intend to purchase is exorbitant, do not go in for it, instead buy cattle which you think will earn you some profit after selling the meat.”
Anti-cattle rustlers sensitise farmers and dealers in CRR
The Gambia Anti-Cattle Rustlers Association which comprises shepherds and cattle farmers recently briefed the farmers and dealers in livestock on their desire to protect livestock and create awareness on cattle rustling in CRR.
The Public Relations Officer of the association, Ebrima O. Jallow, said his association is out to sensitise livestock producers and other stakeholders (dealers and butchers) on the ever increasing livestock theft in the country, and help their associations to establish anti-cattle rustling to combat the ugly menace.
He called on livestock owners’ to link with the Anti-Cattle Rustling Association for proper coordination of activities and tracking of stolen or lost animals.
The vice president of the Shepherds and Cattle Farmers Organisation, Sutura Jatta, for his part, said their objective is to eradicate all immoral acts against livestock development, especially rustling, and to inform all stakeholders on emergencies like pest and disease outbreaks.
He pointed out that their mission is to provide maximum security for livestock development in the country, thus calling on owners and association members to work together to eradicate cattle rustling in the country.
Speaking on behalf of the governor, the assistant record officer at the Governor’s Office, Wassabo Darboe, commended the organisation for its efforts in the fight against cattle rustling in the country.
He spoke at length on the importance of establishing vigilant groups, which he said will go a long way in complementing the efforts of the security personnel in protecting properties. He assured them that their doors are always open for support.
Alhagie Cham, who represented the commissioner of police in the region,said the establishment of vigilant groups will go a long way in easing the work of the security personnel. He pointed out that using the Alkaloulou attestation will help the security forces to trace out rustlers since they (rustlers) do not have movement permits.
The Public Relations Officer of the association, Ebrima O. Jallow, said his association is out to sensitise livestock producers and other stakeholders (dealers and butchers) on the ever increasing livestock theft in the country, and help their associations to establish anti-cattle rustling to combat the ugly menace.
He called on livestock owners’ to link with the Anti-Cattle Rustling Association for proper coordination of activities and tracking of stolen or lost animals.
The vice president of the Shepherds and Cattle Farmers Organisation, Sutura Jatta, for his part, said their objective is to eradicate all immoral acts against livestock development, especially rustling, and to inform all stakeholders on emergencies like pest and disease outbreaks.
He pointed out that their mission is to provide maximum security for livestock development in the country, thus calling on owners and association members to work together to eradicate cattle rustling in the country.
Speaking on behalf of the governor, the assistant record officer at the Governor’s Office, Wassabo Darboe, commended the organisation for its efforts in the fight against cattle rustling in the country.
He spoke at length on the importance of establishing vigilant groups, which he said will go a long way in complementing the efforts of the security personnel in protecting properties. He assured them that their doors are always open for support.
Alhagie Cham, who represented the commissioner of police in the region,said the establishment of vigilant groups will go a long way in easing the work of the security personnel. He pointed out that using the Alkaloulou attestation will help the security forces to trace out rustlers since they (rustlers) do not have movement permits.
Fish mongers plight end soon
As US$3.35M Bakoteh Fish Market near completion
The challenges faced by fish mongers will soon come to an end as The African Development Bank (ADB) funded Bakoteh Fish Market project nears completion. It is reported that about 90% of the work on the site is almost finish so, fish sellers can start breathing a shy of relieve.
The market valued at US$3.35M, targets to address post-harvest fisheries and create employment in the fisheries sector.
“The major impact of the facility if completed will reduce the rate of post-harvest fish captures,” says Nfamara Dampha, director of Fisheries.
He said a fish market in the Kanifing Municipality is necessitated by the unhealthy conditions in which many fish retailers operate. He added that in Serrekunda, for instance, fish retailers are still using old refrigerators, which can even cause health implications on both fish and humans.
The Fisheries director explained that the market has the quality and facilities like that of Brikama. “It has an ice plant to cold room, administrative block as well as fish stalls and an auction hall, and it is expected to immensely contribute to the socio-economic development of the country,” Dampha reveals.
He pointed out that the project will not only provide storage facilities and generate income, but will equally contribute to the creation of employment for the country’s young people, thereby reducing the rate of illegal migration and the subsequent loss of lives in the ocean.
The challenges faced by fish mongers will soon come to an end as The African Development Bank (ADB) funded Bakoteh Fish Market project nears completion. It is reported that about 90% of the work on the site is almost finish so, fish sellers can start breathing a shy of relieve.
The market valued at US$3.35M, targets to address post-harvest fisheries and create employment in the fisheries sector.
“The major impact of the facility if completed will reduce the rate of post-harvest fish captures,” says Nfamara Dampha, director of Fisheries.
He said a fish market in the Kanifing Municipality is necessitated by the unhealthy conditions in which many fish retailers operate. He added that in Serrekunda, for instance, fish retailers are still using old refrigerators, which can even cause health implications on both fish and humans.
The Fisheries director explained that the market has the quality and facilities like that of Brikama. “It has an ice plant to cold room, administrative block as well as fish stalls and an auction hall, and it is expected to immensely contribute to the socio-economic development of the country,” Dampha reveals.
He pointed out that the project will not only provide storage facilities and generate income, but will equally contribute to the creation of employment for the country’s young people, thereby reducing the rate of illegal migration and the subsequent loss of lives in the ocean.
Livestock and horticultural boosted
As extension workers underwent a five day training to enhance food security
Agriculture extension workers recently concluded a five day capacity building workshop. The workshop geared towards building the capacity of extension workers was held in Sapu, Upper Fulladu West of the Central River Region. After the workshop, participants are expected to conduct a step-down training for farmers at grassroots level, in a bid to enhance food security.
Speaking to the participants at the workshop, the regional Agricultural director Habib Touray said livestock and horticulture play a key role in the attainment of food self-sufficiency in the region.
“To achieve food self-sufficiency, there is a need to assist the small scale farmers to improve their production and productivity,” he noted,
Touray alluded that the livestock component can be linked to horticulture component by using the by-product as manure, which will reduce the high cost of chemical fertilizer.
He also made reference to local poultry as a source of income and diet, likewise the small ruminants such as sheep and goats.
For his part, the regional governor, Alhaji Ganyie Touray, commended the regional Agricultural directorate in CRR south for their efforts in the attainment of food self-sufficiency in the region.
According to him, small ruminants serve as social banking for rural people; that equipping them with the skills and knowledge on livestock and horticultural development will go a long way towards improving their production and productivity.
He urged the extension workers to put into practice the skills and techniques acquired during the course of the training.
Speaking on behalf of the project director of livestock and horticultural development, the horticultural specialist, Ousman Jarjue, spoke at length on the importance of the training, saying that the extension workers are dealing with the farmers directly.
He said: “the aim of the training is for the attainment of food self-sufficiency and also to improve the living condition of the farming community.”
Jarjue therefore called on the participants to take up the training seriously in order for them to conduct an effective step-down training for farmers.
Deputising for the director general of Agricultural Services, the regional director of Agriculture in the CRR north, Musa Huma underscored the importance of the training, citing that the topics to be discussed are very crucial.
He said: “vegetable, fruit production, pest, disease management, vegetable and fruit processing and preservation are key in the improvement of production and productivity.”
Use cooking stove to improve food security- Mamsamba Joof
Protecting the environment are key words in recent day development forums. The need to protect the environment and triggers numerous discussion in and around the world and governments and their people are doing everything possible to protect their own environments.
It is with this need, The Agency for the Development of Women and Children (ADWAC), in partnership with the Sustainable Agriculture and Environmental Governance (SAGE) organised a two-day demonstration exercise on the use of cooking stoves for the communities of Kerr Ardo and Mandory in the North Bank Region.
The demonstration is to enlighten the communities on the use of stoves as alternate means to contribute to reforestation and protecting the environment.
Speaking in Kerr Ardo, Mamsamba Joof, the executive director of ADWAC thanked the communities of Kerr Ardo and Mandory for their support to the regeneration of the forest to improve food security and sustainable land management.
He said the use of improved cooking stoves would enhance the health status of women, noting that his agency and partners attach great importance to environmental protection and health of women and children.
Speaking to reporters in Kerewan, Lamin A Jarju, ADWAC livelihood manager also affirmed that the demonstration in Kerr Ardo and Mandory aimed at empowering the communities to adopt the use of improved stoves.
He also noted the significance of the alternative energy source to environmental protection and conservation, noting that the promotion of improved cooking stoves would raise more awareness on the usage.
Beneficiaries such as Njambeh Njie, lady councilor for Lower Baddibu, Penda Joof of Kerr Ardo, Binta Marong, Njaku Fatajo and Majula Ceesay all of Mandori in Central Baddibu District all commended the efforts of ADWAC in contributing to environmental protection and promoting the heath of women and children.
They all commit themselves to the full use of the cooking stoves, with the ultimate aim of protecting and preserving their status.
It is with this need, The Agency for the Development of Women and Children (ADWAC), in partnership with the Sustainable Agriculture and Environmental Governance (SAGE) organised a two-day demonstration exercise on the use of cooking stoves for the communities of Kerr Ardo and Mandory in the North Bank Region.
The demonstration is to enlighten the communities on the use of stoves as alternate means to contribute to reforestation and protecting the environment.
Speaking in Kerr Ardo, Mamsamba Joof, the executive director of ADWAC thanked the communities of Kerr Ardo and Mandory for their support to the regeneration of the forest to improve food security and sustainable land management.
He said the use of improved cooking stoves would enhance the health status of women, noting that his agency and partners attach great importance to environmental protection and health of women and children.
Speaking to reporters in Kerewan, Lamin A Jarju, ADWAC livelihood manager also affirmed that the demonstration in Kerr Ardo and Mandory aimed at empowering the communities to adopt the use of improved stoves.
He also noted the significance of the alternative energy source to environmental protection and conservation, noting that the promotion of improved cooking stoves would raise more awareness on the usage.
Beneficiaries such as Njambeh Njie, lady councilor for Lower Baddibu, Penda Joof of Kerr Ardo, Binta Marong, Njaku Fatajo and Majula Ceesay all of Mandori in Central Baddibu District all commended the efforts of ADWAC in contributing to environmental protection and promoting the heath of women and children.
They all commit themselves to the full use of the cooking stoves, with the ultimate aim of protecting and preserving their status.
FAO provides grains and seeds for rural farmers
Sang Mendy
The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has stepped up assist the farmers at a time when they are in deer need of help. While rural farmers were thinking of the grains and seeds to use for the new farming season, FAO came forward and handed over 94 metric tons of rice seeds and 76.9 metric tons of maize to rural farmers through the minister of Agriculture. The grains and seeds provided for by the FAO are meant for the rural farmers that were affected by last year’s crop failure.
It would be recalled that farmers were hit by poor rainfall thus leading to crop failure; something that struck the rural farmers eminently. In a bid to assist these crop failure victims, FAO stepped up to assist.
Speaking at the handing over ceremony at the Kuntaur seed store in Central River Region North, Dr. Babagana Ahmadou, FAO country representative said the move is an attempt to support farmers who suffered from the 2011 crop failure.
He said the move came as a response to the emergency declaration for support by the Gambian government last year. He also pointed out that the resources came from United Nation Secretary General under the Office of the Humanitarian Response, and Central Emergency Response Fund. “These two institutions gave us some resources so we quickly procure the inputs to address the problems of farmers before the start of another rainy season,” Ahmadou said.
“We are very pleased to hand over these inputs for onward distribution to farmers. This is the first phase of the distribution,” he said.
He also assured that FAO will try all they can to bring groundnut seeds to the country before the start of the farming season.
Receiving the inputs on behalf of the government and Gambian farmers, Solomon Owen, the minister of Agriculture on behalf of the National Disaster Management Agency and the National Food Security Council headed by the vice president, thanked FAO for the generous intervention. He noted that the intervention will go a long way in alleviating the plight of the farmers who suffered from last year’s crop failure.
Minister Owens also recalled that when the crisis was declared, FAO was the first to respond in the form of assisting in mitigating the impact of the crisis on farmers and the cropping season. “It is not only in this time of crisis, but FAO is the biggest partner to agricultural sector in this country,” he said.
He then appealed to farmers to cultivate as much maize as they can, since the market will be available for maize in the ensuing years.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries Ganyie Touray, Governor,Central River Region, thanked FAO for their intervention, describing it as timely. He appealed to farmers not to sell the seeds, stressing that it is meant for them to till the land.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has stepped up assist the farmers at a time when they are in deer need of help. While rural farmers were thinking of the grains and seeds to use for the new farming season, FAO came forward and handed over 94 metric tons of rice seeds and 76.9 metric tons of maize to rural farmers through the minister of Agriculture. The grains and seeds provided for by the FAO are meant for the rural farmers that were affected by last year’s crop failure.
It would be recalled that farmers were hit by poor rainfall thus leading to crop failure; something that struck the rural farmers eminently. In a bid to assist these crop failure victims, FAO stepped up to assist.
Speaking at the handing over ceremony at the Kuntaur seed store in Central River Region North, Dr. Babagana Ahmadou, FAO country representative said the move is an attempt to support farmers who suffered from the 2011 crop failure.
He said the move came as a response to the emergency declaration for support by the Gambian government last year. He also pointed out that the resources came from United Nation Secretary General under the Office of the Humanitarian Response, and Central Emergency Response Fund. “These two institutions gave us some resources so we quickly procure the inputs to address the problems of farmers before the start of another rainy season,” Ahmadou said.
“We are very pleased to hand over these inputs for onward distribution to farmers. This is the first phase of the distribution,” he said.
He also assured that FAO will try all they can to bring groundnut seeds to the country before the start of the farming season.
Receiving the inputs on behalf of the government and Gambian farmers, Solomon Owen, the minister of Agriculture on behalf of the National Disaster Management Agency and the National Food Security Council headed by the vice president, thanked FAO for the generous intervention. He noted that the intervention will go a long way in alleviating the plight of the farmers who suffered from last year’s crop failure.
Minister Owens also recalled that when the crisis was declared, FAO was the first to respond in the form of assisting in mitigating the impact of the crisis on farmers and the cropping season. “It is not only in this time of crisis, but FAO is the biggest partner to agricultural sector in this country,” he said.
He then appealed to farmers to cultivate as much maize as they can, since the market will be available for maize in the ensuing years.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries Ganyie Touray, Governor,Central River Region, thanked FAO for their intervention, describing it as timely. He appealed to farmers not to sell the seeds, stressing that it is meant for them to till the land.