By Fatou B. Cham
The Ministry of Agriculture Livestock and Food Security (MoALFS), recently launched the e-Extension Agricultural Digital Platform and GCCI Digital platform at a forum held at the Ministry in Banjul. These platforms are strategically designed to foster collaboration, enhance agricultural production and productivity, empower entrepreneurs, and streamline the management of growth and development. Through this platform, farmers can establish direct connections with agricultural experts, receive prompt advice, and access essential information regarding good agriculture practices. Speaking at the launch ceremony, Mr. Mod A.K Secka, Permanent Secretary (PS) at MoALFS, noted that the launching of the two digital platforms represents a significant milestone, adding that central to this initiative is the belief that technology can effectively bridge distances, providing practical and timely solutions directly to the hands of farmers, particularly those in remote and underserved areas.
He stated that in today’s dynamic environment, where climate variability, market demands, and technological innovations impact agricultural practices, access to real-time information is critical. According to PS Secka, these platforms equip farmers with valuable insights related to pest management and climate-smart techniques, enabling them to make informed decisions that enhance productivity, sustainability, and resilience. “The GCCI platform will fundamentally transform how they manage their membership and organize trade fairs, including the annual Trade Fair that many community members recognize and engage with,” he unveiled.
Through the GCCI platform, PS Secka mentioned that members will have immediate access to an upgraded and efficiently managed membership database. He added that this platform heralds a new phase for the Trade Fair, facilitating online registration, booth reservations, and digital payment options. “Exhibitor will benefit from a streamlined process that allows for easy space bookings, effective promotion of products and services, and real-time support, thereby enhancing their ability to reach larger audiences and strengthening the economic infrastructure of our community,” he said. Reiterating the GCCI’s platform’s importance, He further stated that it supports SMS-based stall purchasing, payment facilitation, and promotional assistance, offering businesses unprecedented opportunities to grow, network, and engage with customers in innovative ways.
