Gambiaj.com – (BANJULBanjul, The Gambia) — The Government of the Gambia, in collaboration with the National Environment Agency (NEA), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Pan African Agency for the Great Green Wall, and the African Union, convened the 2nd Steering Committee meeting to advance the Great Green Wall initiative. The event also focused on promoting a sustainable and resilient Sahel region.

Over the weekend, participants gathered to review the project’s progress, development, and vision. The forum outlined the project’s components, outcomes, and inputs, including a detailed discussion on activities undertaken and achievements. Adjustments made during the implementation phase were also presented.

In his welcoming remarks, Dawuda Badjie, Executive Director of NEA, emphasized the severe climate and biodiversity threats facing the planet, impacting health and quality of life globally. Badjie highlighted the need for a collective and systemic approach to address these global environmental challenges, urging members to demonstrate their commitment to protecting and preserving the environment.

Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, Rohey John Manjang, underscored the initiative’s importance, noting Gambia’s potential to contribute significantly as a Sahel country rich in forest land and biodiversity. Manjang stressed the importance of regional cooperation in combating desertification and promoting sustainable land management.

Despite ongoing government efforts, challenges such as soil erosion and the impacts of climate change remain significant. Manjang called for urgent action to mitigate deforestation and unsustainable agricultural practices to prevent further land degradation.

Ibrahima Sow, GEF Africa Coordinator, highlighted the importance of resource mobilization for implementing resilient food security and ecosystem projects. Sow discussed the expected benefits and achievements post-implementation.

The Great Green Wall Initiative represents an ambitious, African-led movement to combat desertification, land degradation, and climate change in the Sahel region. This forum marks a crucial step towards achieving these goals and fostering a healthier, more resilient environment for the future.