Gambia’s tree planting mission

Gambia’s tree planting mission Gambia is on a tree planting mission. The government has set an ambitious target of planting 1 million trees every year, and so far various groups and organisations seem eager to help it reach its goal. Just recently, two separate groups embarked on tree planting exercises. The Basse 2nd Infantry Battalion partnered with the regional forestry department in the Upper River Region (URR) to plant 26 different varieties of fruit and non-fruit trees.

The Kombo East Youth and Children Development Association (KEYCDA) planted 4000 trees at the Faraba Bantang Forest Park in the Kombo East District of the West Coast Region. In the URR, the infantry planted, among others, mango, guava, pear and pawpaw trees. The deputy governor of the region, Momodou S. Jallow, thanked the men and praised the collaboration. However, he cautioned those involved that it was as important to take care of the trees and nurture them as it was to plant them. Without proper care, the tree planting exercise will have been in vain. In turn, Sergeant Doudou Touray assured all present at the ceremony, which took place after all the trees were planted that the battalion was indeed dedicated to the proper care of the trees. URR regional forestry officer Babanding Sanyang said that by partnering with various organisations in the area, the department intended planting 10,000 trees. Meanwhile, speaking at the KEYCDA tree planting project Nuha Jarju, the chairman of KEYCDA, thanked all the youngsters present for their help. He also issued a challenge to the youth of the region to help achieve the objectives of the tree planting initiative, which include the proper care and protection of the trees. Sheriff Singhateh, the secretary of KEYCDA, also emphasised the importance of sustaining the trees as the project’s long term goal.