04^th March 2024, Banjul- A 12-day Adult Functional Literacy and Numeracy Training of Trainers, led by Action Aid The Gambia (AATG) in collaboration with the Green Climate Fund-supported PROREFISH ended in the past week in Jenoi,  (Lower River Region LRR). The initiative targeted adult women in oyster harvesting, aquaculture, and conservation of mangroves. The first batch included 17 women from 20 communities along the West Coast Region coastal belt and the Greater Banjul Area

The training is meant to empower women with essential skills and knowledge, with a focus on entrepreneurial and negotiation skills, the program aims to dismantle literacy and numeracy barriers, facilitating access to new practices and formal markets.

Tabu Sarr of Action Aid expressed gratitude towards FAO for entrusting them with the pilot project coordination role, emphasizing the significance of collaboration in achieving impactful outcomes.

"FAO's trust in Action Aid to coordinate the pilot project is truly appreciated, and it underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in driving meaningful change."

It is envisaged that more women will benefit from this training during the year, and many more by the end of the project.

Highlighting the project's focus on women, Ebrima Dem who represented FAO at the event, emphasized the importance of inclusive strategies that empower women through functional literacy programmes tailored to their needs and circumstances.

"Our project prioritizes women, ensuring that every activity is designed to empower them. Functional literacy programs are integral to this approach, recognizing the diverse needs and capabilities of women in our communities."

Commended for their dedication, the women will not only enhance their capabilities but also become catalysts for change in their communities.

Marie Sambou, an oyster farmer from Kartung, praised FAO's PROREFISH initiative for providing valuable training opportunities, underscoring the tangible benefits these initiatives bring to the local communities, including enhanced skills and livelihood opportunities.

"The training provided by FAO's PROREFISH initiative is invaluable to us, it demonstrates FAO's dedication to empowering us and fostering sustainable development in our region."