The initiative, held over the weekend, brought together youth volunteers, environmental advocates, and community members united by a shared mission: to combat coastal degradation, beautify the area, and raise awareness about climate change.
Salimah Drammeh, Country Representative of Sustain Grow International, emphasised the urgency of preserving The Gambia’s coastline, citing threats posed by human activities such as sand mining and deforestation.
“Coconut trees help push back the sea, prevent flooding, and contribute to environmental protection,” Drammeh said. “With support from our partner Africell, we’ve planted 50 trees in total, and we aim to expand nationwide.”
Although the planting focused on Tanjeh, Sustain Grow International reaffirmed its commitment to extending the project to other coastal communities, contingent on partnerships and funding.
Ousman Baldeh, Programme Manager of Global Platform The Gambia—a youth-led movement advocating for climate action, feminism, and good governance—joined the effort.
“We’ve conducted tree planting across all regions of The Gambia,” Baldeh noted. “When we saw Tanjeh Got Talent taking initiative, we knew we had to partner. Climate change affects all of us, it’s not just about planting trees, but ensuring they grow.”
Global Platform supported logistics and shared best practices on community engagement and environmental sustainability, working with local residents to ensure the trees are cared for beyond the rainy season.
Leading the on-ground execution was Momodou S. Jallow, CEO of Tanjeh Got Talent, a community organisation focused on child education, literacy, and local development. The group has been actively involved in clean-up campaigns and environmental awareness programmes.
“These trees will beautify Tanjeh’s entrance,” Jallow said. “They’ll reduce illegal dumping and create a greener, more welcoming space for visitors and investors. “We’re collaborating with local groups including the Tanjeh Red Cross Link, Fish Traders Association, VDC, and Beach Management Committees to ensure regular watering and maintenance.”
He added that plans are underway to fence the trees for added protection, stressing the importance of sustainability and community ownership.
“As the effects of climate change become increasingly visible in The Gambia particularly in rural and coastal areas, grassroots initiatives like this offer a blueprint for localised, youth-led solutions.”
“Every district in The Gambia can create its own impact,” Jallow concluded. “If we all focus on planting and protecting trees, whether coconuts, mangroves, or fruit trees, we can combat climate change, improve food security, and safeguard our environment for generations to come.”
