The Ministry of Agriculture has intensified efforts to improve agricultural data collection and monitoring, with a strong focus on local language integration and inclusive participation.
Over the past two weeks, from July 13 to 24, enumerators underwent intensive preparation at Paradise Hotel. The training, supported by the Gambia Bureau of Statistics, FAO, World Bank, and other partners, is seen as a critical step toward strengthening agricultural statistics and evidence-based policy planning.
In his remarks, Dr. Demba Sabally, the Minister of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Security expressed gratitude to trainers and facilitators for their professionalism, and to development partners for their technical and financial support.
He commended the enumerators for their discipline and commitment, noting that they will serve as “frontline ambassadors of this national exercise.”
“Every household you visit, every farmer you interview, and every record you capture contributes to a national vision of food security and resilience,” the Minister said.
Data for Policy and Food Security
The Minister underscored the importance of reliable statistics, citing the paradox of increased cereal production in 2024 — 124,372 tons, 19 percent above the five-year average — alongside rising food insecurity. According to Cadre Harmonisé analysis, 131,930 Gambians required emergency food assistance between October and December 2024, while 243,937 people needed support between June and August 2025.
“This paradox highlights the importance of accurate data. Without reliable statistics, we cannot design effective policies to address food insecurity, reduce import dependence, or strengthen resilience against climate shocks,” he emphasized.
Measuring Progress in Flagship Projects
The census will provide insights into flagship agricultural projects such as ROOTS, REWARD, GIRAV, GAFSP, SRPEP, and RRVCDP. These initiatives aim to transform value chains, empower youth and women, enhance rural livelihoods, and contribute to the Green Recovery-focused National Development Plan.
The Minister reminded enumerators of their ethical responsibility: to approach farmers with respect, impartiality, and professionalism. He stressed that the credibility of the census depends on their diligence and honesty.
The data collected will inform decisions on resource allocation for staple crops, strengthening livestock and fisheries, designing school feeding programs, and aligning national strategies with continental frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Youth in Agrifood Systems Performance Index (YAPI).
Vision for Food Sovereignty: The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a resilient and food-secure Gambia.
“Our vision, the vision of His Excellency President Adama Barrow, is clear: to secure a food sovereign nation, empower our youth and women, and ensure that no Gambian goes hungry,” he declared.
HISWACA Project Director Mr. Mohammad L. Janneh highlighted the importance of accurate and timely data collection for national planning. He recalled past initiatives such as the 2007 Livestock and Food Security survey and Census 36, noting that while some partners were engaged in the Labor Force Survey launch, their contributions remain vital to this national exercise.
Mr. Janneh announced the provision of 85 motorbikes to the Department of Agriculture, aimed at improving mobility and ensuring that field staff operate in conducive environments. He emphasized that the quality of data collected depends on the discipline, professionalism, and integrity of field workers, urging them to interact respectfully with farmers and households.
Meanwhile, Juldeh Mballow expressed appreciation to the organizers of the training, assuring that the knowledge gained will be applied in the best interest of Gambian farmers and the country’s development.
