Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – In a decisive move to safeguard local agricultural interests, the Gambia government announced on Wednesday a ban on the cross-border sale of subsidized fertilizer. The decision aims to ensure that the heavily subsidized fertilizer benefits Gambian farmers exclusively, preventing its diversion to neighboring countries.

Ebrima G. Sankareh, the government spokesperson and presidential adviser, stated that the sale of subsidized fertilizer across borders undermines the government’s measures designed to enhance local agricultural productivity. “The government is acting after it came to our attention that the fertilizer is being sold across the border,” Sankareh said in a statement.

To curb this malpractice, the government has instructed all Local Government Authorities, The Gambia Police Force, and other security agencies to arrest individuals involved in smuggling and to confiscate any fertilizer found en route to destinations outside The Gambia. Sankareh’s statement also urged the public to report any attempts to smuggle fertilizer, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance in tackling this issue.

This crackdown follows a recent government initiative to reduce the price of a bag of fertilizer from D1150 to D1100. This price reduction is part of a broader strategy to support Gambian farmers and boost agricultural output, ensuring food security and promoting economic stability within the country.

The ban on cross-border sales is expected to bolster these efforts by ensuring that the subsidized fertilizer remains within the country, directly benefiting the intended recipients—Gambian farmers. By taking these steps, the government aims to prevent the diversion of resources that are critical for local agriculture, thereby strengthening the national economy and supporting the livelihoods of farmers across The Gambia.