The Kanifing Municipality is the urban center and the economic citadel of The Gambia. The availability of agricultural land is limited, yet many residents engage in significant agricultural activities. The municipality is home to many poultry farms, women’s gardens, along with the Abuko “Abattoir”.
In accordance with the Local Government Act, 2002, the General Council through a resolution passed on June 28, 2018, established the Agriculture Committee which consists of six members (three (3) Councillor’s and three (3) Agriculture experts). The Committee operates based on the following terms of reference (TOR):
1. To assist the Council in the implementation of its agricultural goals, objectives and policies;
2. Provide advice, comments and recommendations on issues of concern to farmers and how they can engage agricultural organizations for support;
3. Identify key issues of concern for farmers which can be addressed by the Council;
4. Provide advice, and recommendations on alternative solutions, approaches, plans or studies dealing with agriculture and related issues which are within the responsibilities and financial capabilities of the KMC;
5. Identify and implement programs which encourage public awareness on the type of agricultural activities existing within the Municipality and to explore new agricultural techniques to promote the viability of farming in the municipality;
6. Consult with other agricultural groups and committees both nationally and internationally on issues of mutual interest.
7. Such other functions as the Council may delegate or assign to the Committee.
The Agricultural Committee regularly tours agricultural sites within the municipality. These sites include the women’s gardens in Bakau, Bakoteh, Abuko, Old Jeshwang, New Jeshwang, etc. Through such tours, recommendations are made to the management of KMC to improve the sites. One such intervention is the provision of boreholes in some of the women’s gardens.
