Africa-Press – Gambia. Mustapha Njie, Chief Executive Officer of TAF Africa Global, has strongly reaffirmed his company’s commitment to environmental protection across all its development sites on the continent, following a recent incident involving the felling of trees planted by the company.
Speaking at a press briefing, CEO Njie expressed deep disappointment over the cutting down of nearly 100 mature trees at Brufut Gardens by personnel from the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC). The trees, which had been planted and nurtured by TAF Africa Global for over two decades, were reportedly removed without prior consultation.
“I was brought crashing back to a harsh reality when I received the photos. Trees that had stood for more than 20 years offering life, shade, and beauty were left lifeless on the ground,” Njie said.
“Words cannot fully express the profound sadness and disappointment I felt and continue to feel. This act stands in stark contradiction to the conversations our leaders are having about climate resilience. It’s a painful reminder of the broader environmental challenges we face.”
Njie emphasized that the incident has reignited his company’s resolve to go beyond real estate development and into active environmental advocacy. He pledged that TAF Africa Global will intensify efforts to promote sustainable development practices in all countries where it operates.
He warned that indiscriminate tree felling contributes to a range of serious environmental problems, including accelerated climate change, loss of biodiversity, soil degradation, water cycle disruption, increased urban heat, and negative public health impacts.
In response, Njie made a strong call to action directed at multiple sectors, including the government, to enact and enforce stricter laws against indiscriminate tree cutting and promote urban greening and reforestation efforts. The private sector should embrace sustainability and environmental responsibility in all operations. And the society and the general public should cultivate a culture of environmental stewardship and community participation in tree planting and conservation efforts.
“The protection of our environment cannot be a side note—it must be at the heart of our national and regional development strategies,” he urged.
Njie concluded by reaffirming TAF Africa Global’s vision of sustainable urban development that balances infrastructure growth with environmental responsibility.
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