By Fatou Bojang
The Gambian government is making significant progress in modernizing its dairy industry by procuring 25 pregnant “Brown Swiss” cows and two bulls from France. This initiative, facilitated by ANIPL-Senegal, aims to enhance milk production and strengthen the cattle industry, which is vital for the country’s agricultural development.
This ambitious initiative is part of the Programme for Accelerated Community Development (PACD), a flagship project that commenced in April 2020. Fully funded by the Gambian government, it demonstrates a strong commitment to improving the local livestock sector and providing farmers access to high-quality breeding stock.
According to a statement from the Office of the President, introducing these superior breeds is expected to enhance the productivity of local cattle. “By introducing these animals, the government aims to support and elevate the productivity of local breeds,” the statement emphasized, underscoring the government’s dedication to transforming the livestock industry.
During a recent visit to the West Africa Livestock Innovation Centre (WALIC), President Adama Barrow expressed optimism about the project’s potential benefits. He noted that the current trial phase is expected to lead to substantial advancements in the livestock sector, thereby contributing to the nation’s economic growth. “The cattle will be distributed to master farmers who possess the knowledge, skills, and resources to effectively rear them and promote sustainable agricultural practices across the country,” President Barrow stated.
The PACD, implemented in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and coordinated by the Department of Strategic Policy and Delivery (DSPD) under the Ministry of Public Service, Administrative Reforms, Policy Coordination, and Delivery, is part of a broader strategy to revitalize The Gambia’s agricultural landscape.
