Speaking at the convergence, Roots Project Director Mamour Jagne praised participants and the local organising committee for the successful hosting of the forum, particularly acknowledging the contribution of the regional coordinator, Mr. Bah. He also extended gratitude to Mr. Musa Sowe, President of the National Confederation of Farmers’ Associations of The Gambia (NACOFAG), and other implementing partners for their steadfast commitment to the project’s success.
Mr. Jagne emphasised that the forum’s purpose was to gather feedback from stakeholders on how the Roots Project has transformed rural livelihoods. He urged participants to highlight not only successes but also challenges, so the project could strengthen its mandate of improving farmers’ incomes and expanding agricultural production.
Jagne stressed that Roots is not a stand‑alone initiative but one of eight projects under the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Security. “The Roots Project is answerable to the Ministry of Agriculture, which is the government’s arm responsible for agricultural development,” he clarified.
He encouraged participants to seize the opportunity to provide constructive feedback, which would help management refine implementation strategies and deliver greater impact for rural farmers.
Ousman Bah, the regional governor of CRR, commended the Roots Project for its strategic approach, particularly the organisation of consultation forums that allow farmers to share experiences, success stories, and challenges. He recommended the establishment of monitoring committees at intervention sites to ensure accountability and regular reporting.
National Assembly Member for Janjangbureh, Hon. Omar Jammeh, described Roots as “one of the most impactful government projects” and urged stakeholders to be candid in sharing both achievements and difficulties.
Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Deputy Permanent Secretary Fatou Jammeh‑Touray encouraged beneficiaries to take ownership of interventions and ensure sustainability of the support provided.
Day One of the program focused on reviewing Roots’ progress since inception, including achievements, challenges, and ongoing work across regions. Farmers’ groups and partners shared success stories, innovations, and field experiences during interactive sessions; while day two concluded with a feedback session, allowing participants to reflect, raise concerns, and recommend improvements to guide stronger implementation.
The Roots Project reaffirmed its commitment to building resilience, strengthening agricultural value chains, and improving livelihoods across The Gambia.
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