The National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI), in partnership with the World Vegetable Center under the TAAT flagship program, has begun a Training of Trainers (TOT) on Good Agronomic Practices aimed at strengthening safe and sustainable vegetable production across the country.
The program, funded by the P2-P2RS Project under the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Security, brings together 27 participants, including agricultural service providers and lead actors, to build capacity for supporting farmers with improved, climate-resilient practices.
Opening the training in the Lower River Region, Deputy Governor Lamin Momodou Camara underscored the importance of vegetable farming as a major source of income for rural women. He welcomed the involvement of experts from Benin, describing their presence as “timely and important,” and expressed gratitude to the P2-P2RS Project for backing the initiative.
NARI Director General Dr. Demba Jallow emphasized that the training aligns with the goals of GNAIP II, The Gambia’s national agricultural investment plan. He called for a transformation from “rain-fed agriculture” to “brain-fed agriculture,” highlighting the need for innovation, knowledge, and improved farming practices.
From the World Vegetable Center, agronomist Eric Legba explained that the institution’s work focuses on vegetable breeding and developing improved agronomic practices to tackle production challenges. He assured participants that the training would provide valuable technical knowledge and practical experiences.
The initiative is supported by several national and regional agricultural programs, including the ROOTS Project, the GIRAV Project, and the Gambia Agriculture & Food Security Project, coordinated through the Ministry of Agriculture and the Central Projects Coordinating Unit.
