In his annual State of the Nation address, President Adama Barrow emphasized the pivotal role of agriculture and natural resources in The Gambia’s economy, celebrating substantial achievements in the 2023 season and laying out ambitious plans for the future.
Agricultural Achievements in 2023
President Barrow credited the notable growth in agricultural production to favorable weather conditions and proactive government measures, such as:
- Free ploughing services
- Distribution of free seeds
- Heavily subsidized fertilizers
These interventions led to significant increases in cereal production:
- Rice: +27%
- Maize: +25%
- Millet: +14%
- Sorghum: +17%
Cash crops also saw a boost:
- Groundnuts: +12%
- Cowpeas: +26%
- ‘Findo’: +9%
- Sesame: +6%
Despite these gains, the agricultural sector’s contribution to GDP slightly decreased to 24.4% in 2023 from 25.7% in 2022.
Future Plans for 2024/2025
Increased Investment in Groundnuts and Rice Cultivation
- GMD 1.5 billion earmarked for purchasing 36,659 metric tonnes of groundnuts, up from 10,000 metric tonnes.
- Plans to cultivate 5,000 hectares of rice, potentially increasing with commercial farmer involvement.
Enhanced Support for Farmers
- 180 tractors and 20 rotavator boats for year-round use.
- Integrated equipment, training for processors, and expanded irrigation facilities to bolster rice processing.
Seed Distribution and Subsidized Fertilizers
- Distribution of seeds for rice, groundnuts, maize, and beans.
- Subsidized fertilizers available at various locations nationwide.
Financial Inclusivity and Technological Integration
Matching Grant Funds and Modern Technologies
- Matching grant funds for microfinance institutions at the grassroots level.
- Integration of ICT for Internet banking and mobile phones in farming communities.
- Establishment of at least five agricultural insurance schemes to mitigate risks in agricultural lending, managed through public-private partnerships.
The Gambia Agricultural Transformation Programme
The programme aims to:
- Strengthen both public and private sectors across the agricultural value chain.
- Focus on sustainable management of natural resources.
- Enhance food and nutrition security.
President Barrow’s address underscored the government’s commitment to transforming the agricultural sector, ensuring its growth continues to significantly contribute to The Gambia’s economy.
