Gambiaj.com – (SEDHIOU) – Senegalese Minister of Environment and Ecological Transition, Professor Daouda Ngom, has pledged a collaborative effort with Gambia to tackle environmental threats plaguing the Sédhiou region and the borders between the two countries.

During a working visit on Saturday, Ngom identified illegal logging, bush fires, and unauthorized land clearing as major concerns. He emphasized the prevalence of international timber trafficking, calling it an “exuberant” problem the combined forces of Senegal and Gambia will confront.

Recognizing the limitations of unilateral action, the Minister highlighted the importance of cross-border cooperation. He announced plans for joint patrols with Gambia to manage the shared ecosystems along their borders.

“Borders are political but are not ecological,” Ngom remarked, emphasizing the interconnections of the environmental issues. “The Gambia and Senegal are sister countries that share ecosystems,” he said, stressing the need for a unified approach.

While acknowledging the role of Senegalese communities in facilitating illegal logging, Ngom placed significant focus on Gambia’s involvement. He called for discussions with Gambian neighbors “generally listed in this illicit timber trafficking.”

Professor Ngom expressed confidence that this collaboration will be crucial in tackling the environmental challenges in Sédhiou. He outlined various Senegalese initiatives like the Senren project and the involvement of the Senegalese agency for reforestation and the Great Green Wall program. However, the collaborative effort with Gambia was positioned as a key pillar in his strategy.

By joining forces, Senegal and Gambia aim to create a more robust defense against environmental crimes, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable future for the Sédhiou region.