Banjul, The Gambia, September 13, 2024 – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Department of Forestry, the Department of Parks and Wildlife Management (DPWM), and the West African Birds Study Association (WABSA), recently handed over  essential mangrove restoration toolkits to four communities in preparation to the upcoming 2024 Community-Led Mangrove Restoration Campaign for an estimated 400 hectares of degraded mangrove wetlands across the Western, Lower River, and North Bank Regions (WCR, LRR, and NBR).

The handover took place from 09 to 13 September 2024, providing the participating communities with the necessary equipment to lead restoration efforts. These toolkits, designed to support the planting and maintenance of mangroves, will empower communities to restore and conserve vital ecosystems that support fisheries, protect livelihoods, and enhance resilience to climate change. The initiative is possible through the Green Climate Fund Climate Resilient Fishery Initiative for Livelihood Improvement in the Gambia (PROREFISH Gambia). PROREFISH Gambia aims to increase resilience and improve the well-being of the most vulnerable communities.

The equipment handover involved a coordinated effort by FAO Natural Resources Management as well as Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists. National and Regional Focal Persons from implementing partners joined the effort, The selected twenty-six clustered communities sharing the same watershed will spearhead the restoration campaign. The involvement of local communities will integrate traditional practices and local knowledge thus promoting   sustainability and ownership.

"With this equipment, we can finally take action to restore our mangroves. We are also establishing a committee to oversee the use and maintenance of these materials for the benefit of future generations." said Dembo Darboe, of Niumi Lamin.

The upcoming community-led mangrove restoration campaign will focus on reinstating and protecting the conditions necessary for enhancing fisheries productivity and building the long-term resilience of fisherfolk to climate change. This effort aligns with FAO's commitment to sustainable development and natural resource management, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in environmental conservation.

"This handover marks the beginning of a collaborative effort to restore vital ecosystems, ensuring the resilience of our environment and communities."Said Hatab Camara of the Department of Forestry

As preparations for the 2024 Community-Led Mangrove Restoration Campaign advance, FAO and its partners remain dedicated to supporting the participating communities, offering technical guidance and resources to ensure the success of the restoration activities. The handover of the restoration toolkits marks an important milestone to safeguard The Gambia's mangrove ecosystems and foster a sustainable coexistence. It underscores the collective efforts of local communities, government agencies, and international partners to create a more sustainable and resilient future for The Gambia.