04/09/2023The Gambia witnessed a call to action on September 01, 2023, when partners came together at the National Rice Forum and Policy Dialogue. Shibu Rampedi, FAO Representative, delivered a message of support igniting a flame of hope for food and nutrition security in this West African nation. It was a moment of moment of significance for Gambian agriculture to be of profound significance bringing together key stakeholders, partners, and actors from local, regional and national levels. Rice is more than just a staple crop in The Gambia; it is the cornerstone of the nation's cuisine and culture. With an annual per capita consumption of approximately 117 kg or 320g daily per person, rice is key to daily nutritional requirements. However, the pressing challenge lies in bridging the gap between consumption, imports and local production. The Gambia increasingly relies on rice imports to meet its growing demand, this may neither be sustainable nor economically favorable. Collective action for better production and a better life   The Gambia has expanses of arable land, especially along the fertile banks of the river Gambia. These lands hold a promise of yielding abundant rice crops, not only to meet the nation's needs but also to export potential.  FAO’s message called for collective action. Ms Rampedi aptly noted, "We need drivers for change, collective actions, better sectoral governance, and effective engagement of all actors in the rice value chain." Amongst other measures FAO proposed:

• Empowerment for family farmers and encouragement of private sector investment; quality investments, coupled with government incentives and reduced restrictions, may stimulate innovation in areas such as land use, irrigation and the use of agrochemicals.
• A holistic and comprehensive approach emphasizing that the pursuit of rice self-sufficiency extends beyond food and nutrition security; it should encompass gender equality, youth empowerment, land rights, and sustainable natural resources utilization in the face of climate change.

Government  and partners’ commitment and vision for sustainability Noting  FAO's message of support, the government of The Gambia displayed unwavering commitment to achieving rice self-sufficiency. The Minister of Public Services, Baboucarr Buoy, affirmed the government's dedication, ensuring that this endeavour would not waver. Hon. Demba Sabally, the Minister of Agriculture highlighted rice as the cornerstone of Gambian cuisine.  He appreciated that with the support of the development and financing partners quality rice as a commodity can be affordable and accessible to all citizens. The Gambia's quest for rice self-sufficiency draws upon its rich historical potential and the determination of its people. Beyond reducing rice imports, the nation aims to empower its youth, promote gender equality, secure land rights, and contribute to climate change mitigation. This vision transcends food and nutrition security; it encompasses economic prosperity, social equity, and environmental sustainability.