The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources (MECCNAR), in collaboration with the Central Projects Coordination Unit (CPCU), recently concluded a three-day quarterly tour of project intervention sites across the country.
Led by Rohey John Manjang, the nationwide tour provided first-hand insight into ongoing projects and initiatives aimed at addressing environmental and climate-related challenges in The Gambia.
The exercise also highlighted key achievements, community impacts, and the Ministry’s continued efforts toward strengthening climate resilience, environmental sustainability, and natural resource management nationwide.
During a visit to the Rural Integrated Climate Adaptation and Relience Building (RICAR) Project intervention site at the Cooltainer facility in Janjanbureh Market in the Central River Region (CRR), the Hon. Minister underscored the importance of maintaining cleanliness, ensuring sustainability, and strengthening resilience to climate change impacts driven by shifting weather patterns affecting farming communities across the country.
She noted that the facility will play a critical role in enabling year-round preservation and distribution of farm produce, reducing post-harvest losses, and advancing women’s economic empowerment.
The Minister also commended the resilience, dedication, and hard work of women engaged in agricultural production and marketing, recognizing their central role in strengthening local food systems and supporting household livelihoods.
Speaking to beneficiaries at the Janjanbureh Market Cooltainer facility, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Technical) Ms. Ndey Fatou Jobe emphasized the importance of continuous training, proper financial management, routine maintenance, and hygiene to ensure the sustainability and effective operation of the facility.
Speaking on behalf of beneficiaries during the meeting, Ms. Angela Jassey, a gardener, expressed delight over the Cooltainer facility, noting that it will help reduce post-harvest losses, support women’s empowerment, and improve livelihoods for local producers.
Ms. Aji Sowe, a fishmonger, also highlighted the challenges faced due to fish spoilage, which often resulted in significant income losses. She noted that the facility will greatly support fish preservation and help improve their earnings and economic stability.
The quarterly monitoring tour forms part of the Ministry’s broader efforts to assess project implementation, engage beneficiary communities, and promote sustainable climate adaptation and resilience initiatives across the country.
