#National News

NARI receives drone to boost research

Sep 12, 2025, 12:01 PM | Article By: Abdoulie Nyockeh

In a landmark move to enhance research and data collection, the National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI) on Monday, 8th September received a drone donation from South Carolina State University, USA.

The donation is part of a bilateral partnership aimed at strengthening the performance and service delivery of both institutions.

The handing-over ceremony, coordinated by NARI Board Chairperson Dr. Ernest Aubee and attended by the Director General Dr. Demba Jallow and other directors, took place at the NARI conference room in Brikama.

Dr. Jallow praised the donation as a first-of-its-kind support for NARI, noting that the drone would facilitate cost-effective, accurate, and timely data collection in the field.

Dr. Aubee highlighted the significance of introducing modern technology to NARI, emphasising that drones will provide reliable data, a resource long lacking in West Africa.

He expressed appreciation for the partnership with South Carolina State University and specifically commended Dr. Lamin E. Drammeh, Associate Vice President for Public Affairs and Agriculture, for championing the initiative.

Dr. Drammeh, the program initiator, said the drone will significantly enhance NARI’s research capacity while fostering closer collaboration between the Gambian institute and the U.S. university.

Both NARI management and the Board pledged to continue leveraging technology to advance agricultural research in The Gambia.