National Food Security Corporation Settles D500m Debt to Gambian Farmers

By Mariama Dem

In a recent development for Gambian agriculture, the National Food Security Processing and Marketing Corporation announced the resolution of a substantial debt owed to farmers. The Managing Director, Muhammed Njie, disclosed the settlement of D500 million during a meeting with Secco presidents. The move is seen as a government intervention to support farming communities.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to the nation’s agriculture, the National Food Security Processing and Marketing Corporation held a dialogue with secco presidents from across the country. In that meeting, Muhammed Njie announced the settlement of the D500 million debt owed to farmers.

Njie detailed the measures taken to address the debt, stressing the government’s directive to the Central Bank and AGIB Bank to facilitate the withdrawal of the allocated sum. He assured farmers of the imminent disbursement, stating, “We have instructed Agib Bank to distribute the money directly to all Seccos across the country as soon as possible, thanks to the dedicated support of the Gambian Government.”

Njie also underscored the Corporation’s significant investment of one billion Dalasis in purchasing nuts over the past two months, reflecting President Barrow’s dedication to bolstering farming initiatives. He noted that the introduction of the Smart farming initiative, tailored to address farmers’ challenges, demonstrates the Corporation’s commitment to sustainable agricultural growth.

In response to the announcement, secco presidents expressed appreciation for the Corporation’s efforts, acknowledging improvements in payment methods and timelines under Njie’s leadership.

Alagie Ceesay, the vice president of the farmers union, also recognised the government’s intervention, celebrating the empowerment of Gambian farmers through various initiatives, including the provision of affordable fertilisers and timely payments for their produce.