The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Security, through the ROOTS Project, has signed contracts worth US$13.93 million to develop and rehabilitate approximately 685 hectares of rice fields across six communities in the Upper River Region.
Funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the French Development Agency (AFD), the 12 month Pump Irrigation Intervention will benefit farmers in Kossemar, Sotuma, Changally, Basse, Koina and Keneba.
The intervention will improve irrigation and water management, creating better conditions for double cropping, increased rice production and improved farmer livelihoods.
The works will include pumping facilities, irrigation and drainage systems, land preparation, access improvements and operator training.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Permanent Secretary Ambassador Alhagie Nyangado urged contractors to deliver quality work within the agreed timeframe, stressing that the investment is ultimately for the benefit of Gambian farmers.
ROOTS Project Director Famara Trawally also called on contractors to ensure timely delivery and that farmers receive the full benefits of the intervention.
More reliable water.
More productive farmland.
More rice.
Stronger food security.