The solar dryer is a game-changer for Kartong's oyster farmers, who are mostly women. It'll enable the women to process oysters more efficiently, maintain quality, and access new markets.
The facility, unveiled at Hallahin River in Kartong, to allow women to dry and preserve oysters for longer periods, reducing waste and ensuring availability even when the harvesting season is closed.
Speaking during the inauguration, Ebrima KM Jabang from the Department of Fisheries described the solar drying technology as a major step forward.
“This solar drying method is very important for oyster production,” he said. “If oysters are properly preserved, they can last up to one year. Kartong is well known for oysters, and it is part of the culture and tradition of the community.”
Isatou Madeline Jarju, President of the Hallahin Oyster Farmers Association, said the technology will help address seasonal shortages that often affect the local market.
“With this dryer, we can process and preserve oysters so they remain available throughout the year,” she said. “Most of the things we consume in this country are imported, but with this opportunity, Gambian women can one day export oysters beyond the country.”
According to Kaddy Manneh, oyster harvesting has been a lifeline for her and many women in Kartong. It's amazing how this traditional activity has empowered them to support their families and invest in their children's education.
“I paid my children’s school fees from oyster harvesting,” she said. “Sometimes we also buy food and clothes for Eid from the money we make.”
She explained that harvesting methods have improved, shifting from cutting oysters directly from mangroves to using ropes, which is faster and more environmentally friendly. Manneh thanked Blue Ventures and SANYEPD for their support but appealed for further assistance, including a bigger boat and protective gear.
Kebba Jabang, SANYEPD project coordinator, said the project faced challenges, including securing space for the dryer and coordinating stakeholders.
He added that the cooperation from the Ministry of Fisheries, the community, and the centre management committee made the project possible.
Habib Bojang, Executive Director of SANYEPD, said the organisation even visited Senegal to study similar technologies before introducing the initiative in Kartong.
He urged women to maintain the facility properly, noted that it is only solar oyster dryer of its kind in the country.
Mr. Bojang noted that the future looks brighter, with the solar dryer and formal registration, Kartong's oyster harvesters are poised to take their trade to the next level. "Sustainability and economic empowerment are within reach for these women, and it's awesome to see their hopes turning into reality," he mentioned.
