The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Security, through the ROOTS Project, has signed contracts worth D13.93 million to develop and rehabilitate approximately 685 hectares of rice fields across six communities in the Upper River Region.
The initiative, funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the French Development Agency (AFD), will run for 12 months under a Pump Irrigation Intervention. Beneficiaries include farmers in Kossemar, Sotuma, Changally, Basse, Koina and Keneba.
Officials say the intervention will significantly improve irrigation and water management, creating conditions for double cropping, increased rice production, and stronger farmer livelihoods. Works will cover 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 echoed the call, emphasizing timely delivery to ensure farmers reap the full benefits.
This investment marks a major step toward enhancing food security in The Gambia: More reliable water. More productive farmland. More rice. Stronger food security
The project underscores the government’s commitment to agricultural transformation, with international partners backing efforts to empower rural communities and reduce dependence on food imports.
