The tree planting exercise, which started at Campama Ward and then to Old Primet Street, saw the planting of an assortment of different ornamental flowers along the streets in Banjul. For FASEG, the move is another way of contributing to the restoration of the country’s environment in view of the fact that the City of Banjul, lies below sea level.
Besides, FASEG also seeks to foster strong relations between Senegal and The Gambia, promote the welfare of Senegalese citizens in Gambia, while at the same time facilitating cross-border trade and cultural exchange.
Addressing the gathering at Arch 22 shortly before the start of the exercise, Ndene Jallow, president of FASEG, underscored the importance of the exercise, which he said, is part of their efforts to contribute to the restoration of the country’s environment.
He thanked the Gambian leader, H.E. Adama Barrow and his Senegalese counterpart, H.E. Bassirou Diomaye Faye for their great vision towards the development of the Senegambia region.
He said the association has been founded on the principle of caring and compassion, affirming that the two countries are ‘inseparable.’
He spoke about the qualities that binds the two countries and that the initiative is their effort to contribute to the greening of the City of Banjul.
The move, he said, is a symbol of integration, love and togetherness, reminding the importance planting trees and to mankind.
Jallow acknowledged that as Senegalese living in The Gambia, they considered themselves as citizens and would do their utmost to protect and contribute to the development of the country.
He thus thanked all the members and stakeholders, who contributed in one way or the other in making the event a success.
Bintou Kabbah, Councilor of Campama Ward, while thanking the Senegalese Federation for their foresight, lauded the initiative as a move in the right director.
Councilor Kabbah underscored the importance of the exercise, reminding that climate change is taking its toll on many communities around the globe and Banjul is not an exception.
Planting trees, she said, would greatly help in curbing climate change and other environmental hazards.
Baboucarr Jobe, leader of the Senegalese Student group, currently on a summer tour in The Gambia, hailed the move as a great move and in restoring the country’s environment.
He expressed appreciation with the federation and their activities, saying The Gambia and Senegal are one people with the same culture and traditions.
Joe also emphasised the importance of planting trees in the world and even hereafter.
Pa Mamou Ceesay, councillor of New Town Ward, thanked the FASEG for the initiative, adding that Banjul City Council (BCC) is deeply honored and appreciative of their efforts.
As Senegambia citizens, Councillor Ceesay called on members to always show our unity as Africans, adding that tree planting is essential and important for the city of Banjul, which lies below sea level.
He equally spoke about the similarities that binds the two countries from name of communities, culture and tradition.
Saikou Sarr, Marie J. Joof, all expressed similar sentiments. The duo also lauded the efforts of the federation and for embarking on such an important exercise aimed at curbing climate change and other environmental hazards.
