By Omar Bah
The Gambia is set to receive $99.16 million from the African Development Fund for a Regional West Africa Rice Development project to enhance rice cultivation value chains across 15 countries. This initiative targets improved food security and self-sufficiency in rice by 2030, with benefits for farmers, especially women and youth.
The funding comprises grants of $15.95 million, $43.88 million, and $19.94 million, along with an additional $19.39 million from the Transition Support Facility, which collectively accounts for 91.2% of the project’s total cost, funded by the African Development Bank Group.
The project will improve irrigation infrastructure, promote climate-smart farming practices, and support local rice marketing. Additionally, it will provide technical assistance for seed innovation and regional policy reforms through ECOWAS. The African Development Bank Group includes various entities and is committed to advancing Africa’s development.
