Gambiaj.com – (SAMI) – In a significant push towards industrialization and food security, President Adama Barrow recently visited two promising agricultural development sites in the Central River Region (CRR). This visit underscores the Gambian government’s commitment to bolstering local food production and reducing dependency on imported staples.

At Bayaba, the Jah Group has made remarkable strides in industrial rice production. The company has developed 1,200 hectares of land in the Sami Central River Region. To support this large-scale project, they have invested in advanced machinery to pump water from the River Gambia to irrigate the rice fields. Additionally, they are rehabilitating the road leading to the rice field to ensure smooth logistics and transport.

Mr. Hamidu Jah, the driving force behind this initiative, plans to expand his operations to cover 15,000 hectares across various regions. His goal is to produce enough rice to feed all Gambian citizens, significantly contributing to national food security.

Reacting to the progress at Bayaba, President Barrow expressed his confidence in Mr. Jah’s capabilities. “I have no doubt that Hamidu will do what he pledged. He is a serious businessman,” the President stated. He highlighted the potential benefits of such investments, including job creation, economic growth, and a reduction in the reliance on foreign exchange for rice imports.

President Barrow also recalled challenging Mr. Jah to venture into rice cultivation, reiterating his administration’s dedication to fulfilling its promises to the Gambian people, particularly in achieving self-sufficiency in rice production. He emphasized the government’s focus on reforming food security and advancing agricultural practices.

Further demonstrating the government’s support for industrial agriculture, President Barrow visited Kurof in the CRR, where the Swami Company is engaged in industrial banana farming. This company, which sources water from the River Gambia, produces bananas for both export and local consumption. Notably, the majority of their employees are women and youth, reflecting the company’s commitment to inclusive employment practices.

During his visit, President Barrow outlined the government’s comprehensive plan to achieve food self-sufficiency. He emphasized the importance of investing in locally produced agricultural products to ensure food security and meet the nutritional needs of all Gambian citizens.

President Barrow’s visits to these sites in the Central River Region highlight the significant steps being taken towards industrialization and food security in The Gambia. These initiatives are expected to not only boost the local economy but also lay the foundation for sustainable agricultural development across the country.