The European Union (EU) office in the Gambia recently launched an over 1.3 million euros (over 80 million dalasis) worth project for three Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in the Gambia, namely ActionAid International-The Gambia(AAITG); Action Against Hunger-Gambia (AAH); and Mbolo Association.
The aim of the project, as gathered, is to increase the participation of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in tackling climate change and promoting environmental sustainability.
The EU Ambassador to The Gambia, H.E. Corrado Pampaloni, pointed out in his statement that, the economic empowerment of women is crucial for the sustainable development of the country and its economic growth, adding “economies that reach parity in their labor markets, not only increase GDPs [Gross Domestic Products] but also reduce income inequality within society”. He informed the launch ceremony that the project would take three (3) years, saying it started in January of 2020 and would end in December 2022.
“The project will promote the participation of women and youth in the green economy, in eco-restoration, and as agents of environmental protection. Support exchanges of information and expertise to promote mutual learning and networks to increase understanding of climate change, environmental sustainability, and the green economy,” he highlighted.
The EU top diplomat in the country described CSOs as ‘assets and key actors’ for the development of any country, as he recalled in the past, CSOs played a critical role in filling the gaps where the government was unable to provide adequate services.
Gambia’s Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, Mr. Lamin B. Dibba, told the gathering: “The Gambia, like most developing countries, is contributing minimally to the cause of climate change.
“However, the vagaries of climate change negatively impact our economy. The erratic nature of rainfall, coupled with increased temperatures have resulted in a decline in crop yield and increased livestock mortality.”
AAITG’s Executive Director, Mr. Omar Badjie, in his remarks explained the burden that climate change has on agriculture and those with informal jobs that depend on agriculture.
He argued that given the context of The Gambia, over 70% of the population depends on agriculture and agricultural-related activities for their livelihoods. With the country going through a transitional process from ‘dictatorship to democracy’, he held the relevance and pertinence of resilience against climate change and good governance couldn’t be overemphasized.
Also speaking at the event was Country Manager of Action Against Hunger, Ablavi Madeleine Djossou, who delved into the advantages their institution could bring to the Gambia.
“The project aims to contribute to promoting the well-being of Gambians by further transitioning to a green economy, supported by good and responsible governance and inclusive management. The project operates in three Districts of the North Bank Region: Lower Baddibu, Central Baddibu, and Upper Baddibu,” disclosed the AAH Country Manager.
This project is expected to benefit about 3,000 people; strengthen 10 Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) as well as 11 communities, according to official version.
It would also establish a national network for the SMEP for governance, innovation, and network.
Furthermore, it had been noted that the involvement of local governments as another stakeholder would benefit approximately 100,000 people.
