By Lamin Kujabi
In its quest to modernise the dairy sector and make breed animals (cattle and goats) stock accessible to farmers, the government has procured 25 pregnant “Brown Swiss” cows and two bulls from France, through ANIPL- Senegal, which are breeders of high milk-producing cows and goats. The initiative is under the Programme for Accelerated Community Development (PACD).
By introducing these animals, the government aims to support and improve the productivity of local breeds. This is a manifestation of the government’s commitment to transform the livestock industry in the country.
During the inspection of the cattle at the West Africa Livestock Innovation Centre (WALIC), President Barrow expressed optimism that the trial stage of the project will drive meaningful progress in the livestock sector and further strengthen the country’s economy.
The President revealed that the cattle will be distributed to master farmers, with the knowledge, skills, and resources to effectively rear their cattle and contribute to sustainable agricultural practices across the country.
The project is part of the government initiative aimed at revitalising the country’s cattle industry, thereby contributing positively to the national development efforts.
The Programme for Accelerated Community Development (PACD) is a Gambia Government flagship project which starts in April 2020 and is being implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with coordination by the Department of Strategic Policy and Delivery (DSPD) under the Ministry of Public Service, Administrative Reforms, Policy Coordination and Delivery.
Dr. Demba Jallow, veterinarian and technical adviser to West Africa Livestock Innovation Center, explained that the project, depending on the outcome of the pilot will be scaled up, in which more farmers and private sector will be involved.
He informed that the project will be partnering with the private sector, which will eventually take over.
The initiative will see the production of more milk and meat at the local level, creation of employment and food security.
Additional reporting from OP
