Africa-Press – Gambia. The Gambia marked National Oysters Day with a high-level gathering in Kanifing, showcasing gains in the oyster value chain.
The celebrations also highlighted the growing role of women in fisheries, aquaculture and environmental protection.
The milestone was celebrated at the Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute, brought together senior government officials, development partners, diplomats, United Nations agencies and women oyster harvesters from coastal communities across the country.
The event, organised by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) under the FISH4ACP project with support from the European Union and the German government, served as both a celebration and a platform to highlight innovation in oyster aquaculture.
Opening the ceremony, President of the TRY Oyster Women’s Association, Fatou Jatta, described the occasion as recognition of years of community effort to strengthen and organise the oyster sector. She said the association has grown from a small group of women in one community to more than 1,200 members operating across several regions.
She highlighted the importance of women’s leadership in managing oyster harvesting areas and noted that government support in granting exclusive use rights has strengthened both livelihoods and environmental protection in mangrove areas.
In her welcoming remarks, FAO Representative in The Gambia, Ms. Moshigudi Rampedi, praised the resilience of women in the sector, saying they continue to work under difficult conditions while supporting food supply and local markets.
She said the FISH4ACP project, implemented with support from the European Union and Germany, has introduced training, tools and improved aquaculture practices that are helping to boost productivity and sustainability.
The United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mr. Karl Fredric, said the oyster initiative demonstrates the importance of strong partnerships between government and development agencies.
He reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting inclusive policies, improved livelihoods and sustainable management of natural resources.
Speaking on behalf of the European Union delegation, Ambassador Imma Roca i Cortés said the oyster value chain is an important source of income and food security for coastal communities.
She noted that women are increasingly involved in value addition, including improved processing methods and the production of crafts from oyster shells, which is helping to expand economic opportunities.
Delivering the government’s statement, Minister of Fisheries, Water Resources and National Assembly Matters, Hon. Musa Drammeh, said the fisheries sector remained a key pillar of the national economy, supporting thousands of livelihoods across the country.
He said recent interventions have helped modernise oyster production through training, research and the introduction of farming techniques that reduce pressure on mangrove ecosystems while improving yields.
The minister also reaffirmed government’s commitment to expanding market access, strengthening infrastructure and protecting critical wetlands such as the Tanbi ecosystem, which supports oyster production and coastal resilience.
As stakeholders reflected on progress made in the oyster sector, there was a shared message of continued partnership and investment.
Speakers agreed that with sustained support, the industry can further strengthen women’s livelihoods, improve food security and contribute to the sustainable management of The Gambia’s coastal resources.
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