Gambiaj.com – (BANJUl, The Gambia) – The West Africa Competitiveness Programme – The Gambia (WACOMP-GM) has made substantial strides in enhancing the country’s agricultural infrastructure and food safety systems. A team from the organization visited Honorable Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, Hon. Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof on Monday to provide updates on the project’s activities, achievements, and challenges.

Key projects include the construction of three advanced curing, packaging, and storage facilities in Berefet (West Coast Region), Nanaba, and Jahuar Mandinka (Central River Region). These facilities are expected to significantly reduce post-harvest losses and improve the quality and marketability of local produce.

To promote accuracy and fairness in horticultural production, WACOMP-GM has distributed 120 weighing scales to gardens nationwide. These scales, coupled with extensive training for garden operators, are designed to ensure precise measurements, fostering trust and consistency in the agricultural market.

WACOMP-GM has also focused on strengthening The Gambia’s food safety and quality systems. The development of the National Food Safety and Quality Policy marks a critical milestone in this endeavor. Additionally, the project has equipped the Food Safety and Quality Authority (FSQA) with essential tools and trained its technicians, enhancing the nation’s capacity to uphold rigorous food safety standards.

In a groundbreaking move, WACOMP-GM is finalizing The Gambia’s first-ever National Laboratory Policy. This policy will provide a strategic framework for developing necessary laboratory capacities and efficiently allocating resources within the National Quality Infrastructure system. This initiative is set to address critical needs in food safety and quality testing, ensuring that Gambian products meet international standards.

The continuous efforts and achievements of WACOMP-GM underscore the programme’s commitment to advancing The Gambia’s agricultural and food safety sectors. By addressing key infrastructural needs and promoting best practices, WACOMP-GM is playing a pivotal role in the nation’s journey towards economic growth and sustainable development.