The
Department of Parks and Wildlife Management with support from Agriculture
CHOSSO project at the weekend conducted mangrove regeneration exercise at Cape
Point Creek in Bakau.
In
an interview with The Point, Abdoulie Sawo of the Department of Parks, said
Tanbi Wetland plays a vital role in ecosystem function such as providing
breeding and nursery site for aquatic species and provide an adequate space for
flood control.
The
wetland also reduces the speed of violent storms and provide haven for
migratory birds.
Mr
Sawo said Tanbi Wetland is recognised as a site of regional and international
importance by Western African Eco Region’s Conservation. The site harbours globally significant
species including a nursery of more than 70 fish species, more than 100 species
of birds, manatees, nile crocodile and is a pathway for dolphins.
However,
experts said the site is under intense human pressure such as land reclamation,
mangrove cutting, and fishing.
Due
to the significance of mangrove, World Mangrove Day is celebrated every year on
26 July.
This
year, The Gambia will hold a belated celebration of the day on 30 September.