By: Haruna Kuyateh
The Programme for Accelerated Community Development (PACD), under the Office of the President and in partnership with UNDP, has presented two four-wheel drive tractors valued at over D5 million to the communities of Ndofan in Lower Nuimi and Toroba in Lower Badibou, North Bank Region.
The presentation ceremony, held on Friday at the Governor’s Office in Kerewan, fulfilled a promise made by President Adama Barrow during the last Meet the People Tour.
Speaking at the event, Alieu Loum, Deputy Chief of Staff at the Office of the President, emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering rural communities through agriculture and infrastructure. He urged beneficiaries to ensure the tractors are used for the benefit of all, while praising the people of Kerr Wally for raising over D3 million in support of community development.
Mr. Loum added that beneficiaries will undergo training on group management and entrepreneurship to ensure accountability and sustainability.
Mustapha Minteh, Director of Agricultural Engineering Services, described the initiative as a step toward agricultural mechanization, noting that tractor operators have been trained in proper usage and preventive maintenance.
North Bank Governor Lamin Saidykhan called on communities to establish management committees to ensure good governance in the use of the tractors, commending President Barrow’s continued support to farmers and national food security.
On behalf of the communities, Pajain Marong of Ndofan and Momodou Bah of Toroba expressed gratitude to the President for the timely intervention, pledging accountability and transparency in managing the tractors.
Lawmakers and community leaders, including Hon. Tamsir Cham of Lower Nuimi and Mai Ndure of Fass Njaga Choi, also hailed the delivery as part of broader government efforts, such as electricity expansion and road construction that are transforming rural livelihoods.