By:Dawda M. Jallow
The Gambia Farmers Pharmacy has held its Annual General Meeting (AGM), a two-day session at Jambanjelly Permaculture aimed at strengthening sustainable agriculture through knowledge sharing, innovation and collaboration.
The meeting brought together members, leaders and partners to review the organisation’s first year of operations and outline strategies to support farmers across the country.
Opening the session, Chairperson Abdou Rahim Cole said the theme, “Strengthening Sustainable Agriculture Through Knowledge, Innovation and Collaboration,” reflects both the cooperative’s progress and its future ambitions.
He described the year under review as historic for the young organisation, noting that it convened its inaugural national meeting, elected its first executive body, secured legal recognition and launched several initiatives despite limited resources.
Cole highlighted progress in organic fertiliser production, environmental sustainability, capacity building and partnership development, saying these achievements demonstrate how knowledge-sharing, innovation and collaboration can deliver practical solutions that empower farmers, promote food security and create income-generating opportunities.
He thanked members, the executive committee, partners and supporters for their commitment, urging continued unity and stronger governance structures.
Vice President Fatou Touray, delivering a statement on behalf of the Secretary, said the AGM report provided a comprehensive account of the cooperative’s activities and achievements during its formative year.
According to her, Farmers Pharmacy recorded progress in governance, production, partnerships and training, while pursuing strategic collaborations with stakeholders.
She cited engagements with PSN Group for potential training and agricultural input support, and Shelter for Life (The Gambia), which tested the cooperative’s organic liquid fertiliser and expressed interest in bulk purchases subject to evaluation results.
Touray acknowledged challenges, including coordination and resource mobilisation, but said these experiences offered lessons to improve planning and implementation.
Public Relations Officer Famara Badjie said the cooperative was established to unite farmers nationwide, promote knowledge exchange and address common challenges in production, processing, storage and marketing.
He noted that The Gambia imports about 95 percent of its food, describing the situation as unsustainable.
“Eating what you grow is healthier and safer. We must strengthen our soil, preserve local seeds and manage water resources to build a resilient farming system,” Badjie said, adding that collaboration among farmers remains key to achieving food security and reducing dependence on imports.