Africa-Press – Gambia. A master farmer from Toroba in Lower Badibou has called on US Peace Corps Volunteers to play an active role in promoting sustainable agriculture, food security, and environmental protection in local communities.
Momodou Loum made the remarks during a recent visit by a team of Peace Corps Volunteers currently undergoing a one-year training program in tree nursery preparation, planting techniques, animal husbandry, and Irish potato production. The team, which also received language and other professional training at Massembeh in the Lower River Region, is focused on local poultry crossbreeding and integrated farming practices that impact both the environment and public health.
“Adopting sustainable farming practices is essential,” Loum said. “Volunteers’ technical support and guidance on financing techniques are crucial to realizing the full potential of communities, enhancing food and nutrition security, reducing poverty, and protecting the environment.”
Alagie Bah, Head of Languages and Culture at the Peace Corps, noted that the visit involved Agriculture and Health Volunteers and emphasized its importance. “This tour empowers volunteers to observe practical initiatives undertaken by individuals and associations in food production and environmental restoration,” he said.
Gibriel Touray, Programme Assistant for Agriculture and Environment at the Peace Corps, outlined the pilot program on tree nurseries, planting techniques, animal husbandry, and Irish potato farming. He explained that the initiative aims to equip volunteers with the skills needed to transform lives and livelihoods at the community level. Touray also highlighted the use of the Participatory Analysis Community Action (PACA) approach, which ensures that projects are sustainable and community-driven.
The visiting volunteers expressed admiration for the activities of the master farmer, describing the lessons learned as cost-effective and environmentally sound. They said the experience would help them better prepare for deployment in local communities.
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