The facilities are simple but very efficient alternative to traditional fish smoking methods, which may be hazardous and unfriendly to the environment.
“These FTT ovens are energy saving. They are both safe, economical, and emit less smoke.” says Dr. Mustapha Ceesay, assistant FAO Country Representative for Programmes.
Dr. Ceesay extolled the United Nations Industrial Development Organization for sponsoring the project.
Whilst entrusting the two facilities to Fisheries Ministry, Dr. Ceesay also reiterated FAO’s readiness to continue partnering with the government of The Gambia in enhancing food security and nutrition.
He equally encouraged proper upkeep of the new smoke houses.
“I will encourage you to take ownership of these facilities by ensuring that they serve their purpose. These ovens if utilised optimally will generate a lot of revenue.”
Receiving the keys on behalf of the beneficiaries, Omar Gibba, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Fisheries, Water Resources, and National Assembly Matters, hailed the existing genuine and beneficial partnership between his ministry and FAO.
“I am certain that these FTT ovens can produce better quality smoked fish for our women fishmongers. That being the case, the Ministry through its officials on the ground will be monitoring them to ensure they are used for their purpose.”
Beneficiaries including Bibi Manneh, President of Brufut Fishmongers association, and the Alkalo of Tanji, thanked FAO and UNIDO for taking the projects to their communities.
The duo noted that the ovens would generate revenue for women.
The construction of the facilities started over a year ago through funding from the UNIDO GEF project. The ovens will produce good quality fish free from smoke, the fish products may be sold at local and international markets.
