In a landmark achievement for Gambian agriculture, the ROOTS Project (Resilience of Organizations for Transformative Smallholder Agriculture) has signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with 35 new rice-growing communities during the 2025 Wet Season Rice Input Support Signing Ceremony. Held at the prestigious OIC Conference Centre in Kololi, this event marks a significant step toward boosting rice production and ensuring food security across The Gambia.
Scaling Up Rice Production in The Gambia
The Subsidised Input Support Program, a cornerstone of the ROOTS Project, has seen remarkable growth. With the addition of these 35 communities, the total number of beneficiary communities now stands at 92, a substantial increase from just 26 in 2023. This expansion reflects the program’s success and the growing demand for agricultural support among Gambian farmers. By providing subsidized inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and tools, the initiative empowers Village Farmer Associations (VFAs) to enhance rice cultivation and improve yields.
Key Highlights of the Signing Ceremony
- Mutual Commitment: The MoUs establish a framework for collaboration between ROOTS and VFAs, outlining mutual responsibilities, including the three-year declining counterpart contributions model, which promotes sustainability.
- Community Empowerment: The program supports smallholder farmers, enabling them to increase rice production and contribute to food self-sufficiency in The Gambia.
- High-Level Support: The ceremony was attended by the Honourable Minister of Agriculture, the Permanent Secretary, the CPCU Coordinator, community beneficiaries, and other key stakeholders, underscoring the government’s commitment to agricultural development.
Why This Matters for The Gambia
Rice is a staple crop in The Gambia, critical to both food security and economic stability. However, challenges such as limited access to quality inputs and unpredictable weather have historically hampered rice farming. The ROOTS 2025 Wet Season Rice Input Support Program addresses these barriers by equipping farmers with the resources they need to succeed. This initiative not only boosts agricultural productivity but also strengthens rural livelihoods, reduces poverty, and promotes sustainable farming practices.
A Growing Impact: From 26 to 92 Communities
The rapid growth of the Subsidised Input Support Program—from 26 communities in 2023 to 92 in 2025—demonstrates its effectiveness and the trust it has earned among Gambian farmers. By fostering partnerships with Village Farmer Associations, ROOTS is building a resilient agricultural ecosystem that empowers communities to thrive in the face of climate change and economic challenges.
A Collaborative Vision for Progress
The OIC Conference Centre in Kololi served as a fitting backdrop for this milestone event, symbolizing The Gambia’s aspirations for growth and development. The presence of high-ranking officials, including the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and the CPCU Coordinator, highlighted the collaborative effort driving this initiative. Together with community beneficiaries and partners, ROOTS is laying the groundwork for a future where food security and agricultural prosperity are realities for all Gambians.
The Road Ahead: Cultivating a Brighter Future
The ROOTS Project is more than a support program—it’s a movement to transform Gambian agriculture. By investing in rice production, smallholder farmers, and sustainable practices, the initiative aligns with global priorities such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on zero hunger, poverty reduction, and climate resilience. As the 2025 wet season approaches, the newly onboarded communities are poised to contribute to a bountiful harvest, strengthening The Gambia’s position as a leader in West African agriculture.
Conclusion
The ROOTS 2025 Wet Season Rice Input Support Signing Ceremony marks a pivotal moment in The Gambia’s journey toward food security and agricultural excellence. By expanding the Subsidised Input Support Program to 92 communities, ROOTS is empowering Gambian farmers to cultivate progress and build a resilient future. With the support of the Ministry of Agriculture, Village Farmer Associations, and key partners, The Gambia is sowing the seeds for a thriving, self-sufficient nation—one field at a time.