The Association of Small Scale Enterprise ASSET has launched a 7,000 trees planting exercise, at a colourful ceremony held at the Abuko Nature Reserve. The tree-planting exercise was organised by ASSET and various institutions, including the Nigerian Embassy, Travel Tourism, Gambia Tourism Authority among others.
Speaking at the exercise, Mr. Hatab Camara, who represented the Director of Forestry and doubles as the Co-ordinator for Market Analysis and Development Officer, at the Department of Forestry described the move as a step in the right direction.
According to him, the planted trees play a vital role in the livelihood of people, especially in the conservation of natural species. He noted that in The Gambia, 75 percent of the population are farmers, who solely depend on rainfall for agricultural activities, which is the primary source of income. He said with forest cover, "it means we will have prospect of good rainfall, which is equal to bumper harvest of our agricultural product."
He noted that taking care of these trees and planting more trees is all geared towards contributing to the improvement of our livelihood needs. He also commended ASSET Care Group for their contribution to the climate change effect, which every single tree contributes to the emitting of the gas effect.
Mr. Camara further thanked ASSET Care Group and their partner for the laudable gesture, noting that this will boost the economy of the country by encouraging more tourists to come to the country. He also commended the participants for their high participation in the exercise, while urging them to continue their hard work in order to achieve their desired goals.
For his part, Modou Lamin Kinteh, the Co-ordinator of ASSET Care Group said the turn out was a clear indication of the participants' commitment to nation-building. He said ASSET Care Group decided to come up with the initiative, so as to contribute their quota to national development.
Mr. Kinteh then used the occasion to thank all those who have participated in the exercise and for making this event a reality. He also revealed that last Saturday two thousands trees were planted.
