The National Assembly Committee on Agriculture embarked on a field visit to assess the state of farming across the country. Their goal is to ensure that government support effectively reaches farmers at every stage of the agricultural value chain, from seeds to markets. The tour which began on Monday 29th January, wrapped up on Saturday 3rd February 2024.
The Chairperson of the Committee, Hon. Omar Darboe, highlighted the importance of their mission, stating, “Our aim is to address key questions such as whether high-quality seeds are reaching farmers, and if outdated equipment is hindering harvests. We also seek to understand the root causes of crippling post-harvest losses and explore ways to improve market access for farmers.”
Through candid discussions with farmers and officials, the Committee uncovered challenges facing the agricultural sector, including skyrocketing fertilizer costs, ageing machinery, limited storage facilities, and struggles with market access and extension services.
Armed with these real-world insights, the Committee is determined to propose actionable solutions. Their recommendations aim to address these challenges as seeds sown for a brighter and more prosperous future for agriculture in The Gambia.
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