By Alhagie Babou Jallow
In the North Bank Region of the country, Gambia Daily caught up with a young farmer who is doing extremely well in agriculture, contributing to food security in the country.
Alagie Jarju hailed from Sami Koto of Upper Nuimi in the North Bank Region.
In this interview, he pointed out that despite the positive, limited support is inhibiting his efforts to increase production and productivity.
He appealed to the government, particularly the Ministry of Agriculture, philanthropists, and NGOs to support him with a borehole, farming machinery, and fencing of his 400 x 390 facility, located at Sami Koto village.
“Lack of power tiller and other farm implements affects my capacity to increase production and productivity,” he said.
He lamented that the inadequate water supply is a major problem affecting the growth and development of oranges, vegetable production, and pawpaw.
Jarjue disclosed that with support, he plans to hire more youths to work on the garden.
Another farmer, Modou Drammeh from Kerr Alagie Karou of Jokadou, hailed Alagie Jarjue for his commitment to food production and employment. He noted that he was there to cultivate onions and engaged in cashewnut collection to support his family. He said the farm produce quality onions and calls for more support, noting that four youths are hired and believed that with an adequate water supply more youths can be hired, who at the same time could learn skills on vegetable production and tree nursery management to earn a decent living.
Filije Camara, alkalo, described the move taken by Alagie Jarjue as another milestone in the restoration of forest cover. He calls on others to learn from his success stories. He also calls on youths to acquire education and get professional skills to contribute to national development.
Karanta Camara, community leader and deputy Imam, said planting of trees is in line with the teachings of Islam.
