The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Security, through the ROOTS Project, has signed contracts worth D13.93 million to develop and rehabilitate approximately 685 hectares of rice fields across six communities in the Upper River Region. This initiative aims to improve irrigation and water management, creating conditions for double cropping, increased rice production, and stronger farmer livelihoods. The project is funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the French Development Agency (AFD).
The six communities set to benefit from this investment are Kossemar, Sotuma, Changally, Basse, Koina, and Keneba. The 12-month project, under a Pump Irrigation Intervention, will cover pumping facilities, irrigation and drainage systems, land preparation, access improvements, and operator training. Officials stress that the intervention will significantly improve irrigation and water management, ultimately benefiting Gambian farmers.
Permanent Secretary Ambassador Alhagie Nyangado has urged contractors to deliver quality work within the agreed timeframe. He emphasized that the investment is ultimately for the benefit of Gambian farmers. ROOTS Project Director Famara Trawally echoed the call, emphasizing timely delivery to ensure farmers reap the full benefits of the project.
This investment marks a major step towards enhancing food security in The Gambia. The project aims to ensure more reliable water, more productive farmland, and more rice, ultimately leading to stronger food security. The initiative underscores the government's commitment to agricultural transformation, with international partners backing efforts to empower rural communities and reduce dependence on food imports.
The ROOTS Project is part of a broader effort to boost agricultural productivity in The Gambia. By investing in irrigation and water management, the government hopes to increase rice production and improve the livelihoods of farmers in the Upper River Region. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy and contribute to the country's food security.
The signing ceremony for the contracts was attended by officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Security, as well as representatives from the ROOTS Project and the contractor. The event marked a significant milestone in the implementation of the project, which is expected to commence soon.
The government's investment in the ROOTS Project demonstrates its commitment to agricultural development and food security in The Gambia. With the support of international partners, the project is poised to make a positive impact on the lives of farmers and communities in the Upper River Region.
Key points
- The Gambia's Ministry of Agriculture invests D13.93 million to develop 685 hectares of rice fields in six communities in the Upper River Region.
- The project aims to improve irrigation and water management, creating conditions for double cropping, increased rice production, and stronger farmer livelihoods.
- The initiative is funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the French Development Agency (AFD).
