The presentation ceremony took place at the ministry’s headquarters on Marina Parade, Banjul, with officials from both the ministry and FAO in attendance. The devices are intended for use by extension workers in the Department of Fisheries, enabling them to gather, process and manage fisheries data more efficiently across the country.
Speaking at the event, Permanent Secretary Buba Sanyang described the donation as both timely and significant for the ministry’s ongoing work.
“The donation came at a time when these materials are needed most,” Mr Sanyang said. “We are grateful to FAO for its continued support and partnership with the ministry.”
He emphasised the importance of accurate and reliable data collection in national development, particularly in the fisheries sector, which remains a vital contributor to food security, employment and economic growth in The Gambia. He added that modern technology is essential to improving efficiency and ensuring that information collected from fishing communities is both timely and accurate.
According to officials, the tablets will allow extension officers to collect field information digitally, reducing delays and minimising errors associated with manual data entry. The initiative is also expected to enhance monitoring and reporting systems within the fisheries department.
FAO has long supported The Gambia through agricultural and fisheries development programmes aimed at promoting sustainable resource management, improving livelihoods and strengthening institutional capacity. This latest donation forms part of wider efforts to modernise data collection systems and improve service delivery in the fisheries sector.
Officials believe that the adoption of digital tools will contribute to better planning and informed decision‑making, ensuring the sustainable management of the country’s fisheries resources.
