Lamin Saine, AACCP Project Coordinator

As the Project Coordinator of the Adapting Agriculture to Climate Change in The Gambia Project (AACCP), I have had the privilege to witness firsthand this initiative's positive impact on rural Gambians' lives.

The implementation phase of AACCP focused on building institutional and technical capacity for climate change adaptation in the agriculture and livestock sectors. This was achieved through a multifaceted approach, including training sessions, study tours, and integrating climate change priorities into national policies and strategies.

One of the most notable outcomes of the project has been the significant increase in the adoption of good agricultural practices among both Implementing Partners (IPs) and farmers. Through capacity building initiatives and provision of essential facilities and equipment, farmers have embraced agronomic practices and organic farming methods, leading to improved crop yields and soil health. Additionally, the upgrading of the National Environment Agency (NEA) Laboratory and the development of a National Early Warning Strategy have enhanced vulnerability assessment and disaster risk preparedness, ensuring timely and effective response to climate-related challenges.

The procurement of agro-meteorological tools and radio equipment has revolutionized agro-climate monitoring and dissemination of climate information, empowering farming communities to make informed decisions and build resilience against climate variability. Timely weather forecasts and regional awareness campaigns conducted through radio talks and stakeholder meetings have facilitated adaptation at both national and local levels.

Moreover, AACCP has addressed the issue of monocropping dependence among smallholder farmers through various interventions such as the establishment of gardens, livestock production schemes, and post-harvest milling machines. These initiatives have not only diversified agricultural production but also improved nutrition security and generated additional income for beneficiaries. The introduction of livestock boreholes, intensive feed gardens, and cluster management committees has bolstered the resilience of the livestock sector, reduced conflicts between farmers, and enhanced rangeland productivity.

One of the most rewarding aspects of overseeing this project has been witnessing the tangible impact on the lives and livelihoods of beneficiaries. Increased consumption of vegetables and poultry products, empowerment of women and youth, and improved management of natural resources are just some of the positive outcomes that attest to the project's success. Furthermore, the high level of commitment demonstrated by stakeholders during the participatory development of the project exit strategy bodes well for the sustainability of interventions beyond the project lifespan.

My experience of interacting with beneficiaries of the AACCP project was deeply enlightening. I had the privilege of hearing firsthand accounts of how their lives were positively impacted by the project interventions. Many beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the newfound opportunities and resources that the project provided.

For instance, farmers spoke of how the project's training sessions on organic farming techniques enabled them to diversify their crops and improve soil fertility. They emphasized how this not only increased their families' access to nutritious foods but also provided a steady source of income through surplus produce sales.

Similarly, livestock farmers in the Central River Region North recounted how the project's infrastructure developments, like livestock boreholes and intensive feed gardens, enhanced their resilience to climate shocks. They described how these interventions not only safeguarded their herds but also improved the quality of their animals, leading to higher market prices and increased income.

Beyond economic benefits, beneficiaries highlighted the project's role in empowering marginalized groups, particularly women and youth. Young women like Aminata Touray from the Upper River Region North shared their excitement about the opportunities created by community gardens and post-harvest milling machines. They expressed how these initiatives provided them with newfound sources of income and a sense of empowerment within their communities.

Overall, these testimonies painted a vivid picture of the project's impact on rural Gambian communities. From improved food security and increased incomes to enhanced resilience and empowerment, the AACCP project has truly brought about positive change at the grassroots level. These personal accounts reaffirmed my belief in the importance of sustainable development interventions and the profound difference they can make in people's lives.