This forces many to seek other alternatives just to have access without looking at its impact on the environment.
In our Today’s edition -The Gambia Investment and Export Promotion Agency (GiEPA), in collaboration with Regenerative Hubs, a global advocacy and investment group with prominent African Diasporans leading its outreach efforts recently launched a mega transformative project with the planting of ‘Pongamia’ plant in Chamen Nianija, Central River Region.
The project in the next three years is expected to scale to 10,000 hectares across the region, creating jobs, restoring ecosystems, and fueling change — literally and figuratively.
For the people behind this laudable project, this is more than just planting trees, it is about planting hope in the form of skills, opportunity, and dignity.
However, this transformative project couldn’t have come at a better time than now when most countries and even private entities are fast embracing sustainable development ventures while maximizing profits.
The launching of this ‘Pongamia Plant’ or simply Oil Tree would help transform the lives and livelihood of the people of the area and even beyond.
The Pongamia pinnata trees have been increasingly used for oil production due to biodiesel use, which can be used to power water pumps and generate electricity in rural areas with limited access to electricity.
Thus, the potential of this project to transform this community and even beyond in no to distant future is achievable. This project is about creating real pathways to uplift women out of poverty and building systems that work for our people, not just around them.
Measuring over one-thousand, five hectares, this pilot site will be used as a pilot site growing feedstock that will produce biofuel — using crops that regenerate our land and power our future.
In addition, the project has the potential to create a more sustainable alternative to traditional fuels, with benefits for both the environment and the economy.
Biofuels offer a renewable energy source, contribute to national and local energy security, and can boost rural livelihoods.
Therefore, this Chamen Nianija project would not only transform the lives of the people there, but would also help in restoring the country’s environment.
Experts revealed that producing energy from bio-based materials, offers a means for Africa to take a huge leap towards net zero carbon emissions. This, they say, also boosts rural livelihoods and reduces the cost of importing fuel.
Of course, Africa already relies on biomass for energy. The International Energy Agency estimates that over 80% of the continent’s population uses biomass – mainly firewood and charcoal – for cooking.
We commend the Gambia Investment and Export Promotion Agency (GiEPA) and its partners for their bold initiatives. This project has the potential to not only contribute to our national efforts to the renewable energy transition, but also position The Gambia as a regional innovator to climate smart agriculture.
This is what real sustainable development calls for putting people and communities at the heart of issues. We hope they replicate similar sites in other regions across the country.
" The analysis reveals significant challenges that require a transformative approach to development grounded in systems thinking and a focus on equity and resilience." - United Nations