Smallholder farmers in The Gambia have achieved unprecedented gains in productivity and income through the innovative SoilProfit Groundnut 1.0 Project, led by The Soil Solution. This groundbreaking initiative is transforming groundnut farming in West Africa by tackling decades of soil degradation and nutrient depletion.
Record-Breaking Results
- Yields increased by more than 300%, far surpassing national averages.
- Farmer incomes rose by over 300%, strengthening household resilience.
- Adoption of agricultural lime reached 100% among participating farmers.
- Soil pH levels improved, unlocking nutrients and boosting crop growth.
- Farmers received hands-on training in modern agronomic practices.
The project confirmed that soil acidity is the single greatest constraint to groundnut production in The Gambia—and that agricultural lime is the key to unlocking productivity.
Building Resilience Beyond Yields
By restoring soil health, farmers are now better equipped to withstand climate shocks, secure food supplies, and build sustainable livelihoods. The initiative also fostered collective action through the creation of the Cooperative Groundnut Farmers Association (CGFA), a farmer-led body that strengthens access to inputs, markets, and knowledge-sharing.
“Improving soil health is one of the most effective investments in Gambian agriculture,” said Ebrima Jarra, Executive Director of The Soil Solution. “By addressing soil acidity and empowering farmers, we’ve shown that productivity, profitability, and resilience can all be achieved together.”
A Model for Africa’s Agricultural Future
The success of SoilProfit Groundnut 1.0 is paving the way for SoilProfit Groundnut 2.0, which will expand access to lime and soil health technologies, strengthen cooperatives, improve financing and market access, and reach thousands more farmers nationwide.
This Gambian innovation offers lessons for countries across Africa and beyond: healthy soils are the foundation of food security, climate resilience, and rural prosperity.
About The Soil Solution
The Soil Solution is dedicated to promoting healthy soils, sustainable agriculture, and resilient farming systems through research, innovation, and partnerships. Its mission is to restore degraded lands, increase productivity, and strengthen rural livelihoods across The Gambia.
Media Contact
Communications Department, The Soil Solution Email: coms.thesoilsolution@gmail.com | solvesoilgambia@gmail.com
