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Ineffective Management and Corruption Blamed for Stagnation of Gambia's Agriculture Sector

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Emmanuel Abara Benson
New Update
Farmers in The Gambia
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Image Credit: Africa Development Bank

Gambian lawmaker Sainey Jawara has criticized the lack of progress in Gambia's agriculture sector despite significant financial support provided over the years.

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Jawara, who represents the Lower Saloum (one of the ten districts of the Central River Division) in The Gambia's National Assembly, argued that the sector remains stagnant due to self-centred officials who prioritize personal gain over agricultural development.

Failed Projects and Misappropriation

Despite the presence of nine ongoing projects, including the Gambia Inclusive and Resilient Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (GIRAV) and the Resilience of Organisations for Transformative Smallholder Agriculture Project (ROOTS), none have met expectations.

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Jawara, therefore, emphasized the urgent need for a proactive approach to address the sector's challenges and promote its growth.

Misguided Priorities and Self-Centeredness Hindering Agricultural Progress

Jawara criticized the current officials in Gambia's agriculture sector, stating that they have been more focused on their personal interests rather than supporting the country's agricultural ambitions.

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He highlighted the failure of the officials to assist former President Jammeh in his efforts to achieve food self-sufficiency, instead diverting funds for personal gain and luxury.

Jawara emphasized the necessity of reforming the individuals involved in the sector and urged the government to hold them accountable for their actions. Despite the availability of financial grants and loans, the lack of progress in the agriculture sector has hindered Gambia's ability to reduce its reliance on food imports.

Note that agriculture is the mainstay of the Gambian economy, employing a significant portion of the population and contributing to a substantial portion of the country's GDP.

The agricultural sector in The Gambia includes crop cultivation (such as rice, millet, maize, and peanuts), livestock rearing, and fishing. Agriculture plays a crucial role in providing food security and livelihoods for many Gambians.

FoodSecurity Livelihoods AgriculturalProgress GambiaAgriculture GambianEconomy
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