The
Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Omar A. Jallow, has said that the Gambia was
committed to the attainment of the Social Development Goals (SDGs) where
improving food and nutrition security are critical components.
He said if they are to make significant steps
towards achieving the SDGs in the coming years, they have to take into account
proven cost effective food nutrition security interventions that are culturally
adaptable and climate friendly.
He
made the statement while delivering a speech during the launching of a
multimillion dalasi food insecurity agricultural project funded by the European
Union.
The
Agriculture Minister said food security component of the project would empower
the ministry of agriculture to adopt and employ improved technological
approaches to increase production and productivity by strengthening farmers’
capacities to sustainably improve their agricultural production and
productivity.
He
said the component would strengthen extension support services to farmers and
also complement other food and nutrition security projects currently being
implemented by the ministry and other partners.
According
to Minister Jallow, the multi partnership approach used in the project would
not only pave the way for technological transfer, but would also facilitate
food transformation, diversity and the promotion of agri-business.
He
said in order to achieve sustainable increased production and productivity for
improved food and nutrition, there was the need for a strong partnership,
collaboration and coordination between agriculture, health and nutrition.
He
further stated that the ministry of agriculture was fully committed and would
continue to commit itself to the full implementation of the project for the
improvement of food and nutrition security as well as acceleration of poverty
reduction as set out in the SDGs.
The
agriculture minister also stated that the day marks another important milestone
in their collective effort in the New Gambia to improve food and nutrition
security in the country.
