Gambia Farmers See Bigger Harvests from Climate Project

Farmers in Gambia's West Coast Region are harvesting more food while protecting the environment, thanks to a groundbreaking project that's transforming how they grow crops.

The ROOTS Project, launched in 2021, recently completed a five-day assessment tour showing impressive results. Smallholder farmers are using simple but powerful techniques like planting trees alongside crops, regenerating natural vegetation, and switching to fuel-efficient cooking stoves.

The changes are making a real difference on the ground. Farmers report better protection from pests, less soil erosion, and bigger harvests since adopting these methods.

The project teaches farmers to integrate trees like moringa and live lime fencing into their fields. These trees do double duty by improving soil fertility and supporting local wildlife while crops grow stronger.

Another key technique called Assisted Natural Regeneration helps restore degraded land naturally. It improves water retention in the soil, which means crops can better survive dry periods.

The initiative also introduced "jambarr" stoves that use significantly less firewood than traditional cooking methods. This simple switch is cutting deforestation and reducing carbon emissions while saving families time and money on fuel.

Dr. Fatou Bojang, who manages climate and natural resources for the project, explained that support from the Global Environment Facility made these integrated approaches possible. The combination of environmental protection and improved farming is proving more effective than either approach alone.

The Ripple Effect

The benefits extend far beyond individual farms. As families use less firewood, surrounding forests face less pressure and can recover naturally.

Regional coordinator Kaddy Bojang Saidy noted the project is enhancing food security across communities while minimizing crop losses after harvest. Rural families are gaining both economic stability and environmental resilience.

The ROOTS Project operates with backing from the International Fund for Agricultural Development, the Global Environment Facility, and Gambia's government. Director Famara Trawally emphasized the initiative focuses on community-driven solutions rather than top-down mandates.

Forestry officer Bubacarr Bah described the program as vital for improving living conditions in rural areas while advancing climate-smart agriculture nationwide. The monitoring assessment confirmed the project remains on track to meet its long-term sustainability goals.

For farming communities across Gambia, the message is clear: protecting the environment and growing more food aren't opposing goals but powerful partners in building a more secure future.