By Nelson Manneh
The Gambia River, adorned with extensive mangrove forests, provides ideal conditions for oyster farming. Traditionally, oysters have been hand-harvested from mangrove roots during low tide, with the season spanning from March to June. However, women in Bullock Village have introduced an innovative method that could revolutionize oyster farming: artificial oyster propagation.
Using locally sourced materials such as sticks, ropes, and oyster shells, these women have developed a tidal river farm that not only alleviates pressure on the fragile mangrove ecosystem, but also enhances safety and productivity.
A Heritage of Oyster Farming
Oyster farming in The Gambia dates back to the 15th century, with the Jola tribe being the pioneers of this practice. Their unique cultural traditions have preserved this trade for centuries, making it an integral part of The Gambia’s history and economy. Women in Bullock Village have carried this legacy forward, becoming the primary suppliers of oysters in the country despite challenges such as political instability and economic hardships.
Their contribution extends beyond food production; they have bolstered tourism and demonstrated the resilience and ingenuity of Gambian culture.
A New Beginning for Bullock’s Women
Mrs. Wontonding Fadera, an oyster farmer in Bullock, described the transformation brought about by artificial propagation: “It was a dream come true for us. For years, we only harvested oysters naturally, but now we propagate them artificially. After a few months, we harvest and sell them,” she explained.
Mrs. Fadera noted the challenges they previously faced, including traveling deep into the river to find oysters.
“Years ago, we could harvest less than a kilometer from shore. Now, we must go much farther, which is risky and time-consuming,” she said.
Initially skeptical about artificial propagation, Mrs. Fadera admitted the concept seemed far-fetched. However, after training, she discovered that the process involved attracting live oysters to shells, providing them a habitat to grow.
Through a community association, the women of Bullock have embraced this method. This year alone, their efforts yielded a harvest worth 10,000 dalasis, marking a significant milestone.
Economic Empowerment
Fellow farmer Fatou Badjie shared her enthusiasm:
“With this initiative, the process is fast and easy. It requires little to no capital—just knowledge. We now propagate oysters in two areas every year and harvest them after a few months,” she said, urging others to adopt this sustainable approach.
Oyster farming provides critical economic benefits, creating jobs and offering a sustainable source of food. Many women sell their harvests along the Banjul Highway and at Serrekunda Market. Even unsold oysters can be dried and resold, ensuring minimal losses.
For some, like Mariatou Sambou of New Jeshwang, oyster farming has been life-changing. “I educated all my children with the income I earned. My children even help me in the business, making it a family enterprise,” she said.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
Agriculturist Lamin Kaita highlighted the dual advantages of oyster farming:
“Oysters improve water quality by filtering excess nutrients and provide a sustainable food source. They also support biodiversity and protect shorelines from erosion,” he explained.
Research shows that a single oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water daily, reducing harmful algal blooms and improving marine ecosystems.
Challenges and Climate Resilience
Despite its benefits, oyster farming faces challenges, particularly from climate change. floods, storms, and disease threaten production. Nonetheless, experts believe the resilience of oysters makes them a viable choice for sustainable aquaculture.
Training and Innovation
Mrs. Fatoumatta Dukurah, an oyster farming expert, has been instrumental in training the women of Bullock. She introduced them to the practical aspects of artificial propagation, helping them organize into an association for better collaboration.
“In oyster farming, you need shells, sticks, and ropes. When tied together, these attract live oysters brought by tides. The method is simple but effective,” she said.
Mrs. Dukurah recalled the initial skepticism among the women. However, their first harvest from propagated oysters, worth 20,000 dalasis, proved the method’s potential.
“It was a game-changer for them. As the world’s demand for food increases, innovative approaches like this are essential,” she concluded.
A Sustainable Future
The success of artificial oyster propagation in Bullock underscores the potential of sustainable aquaculture in The Gambia. It offers a pathway to economic empowerment for women, contributes to environmental conservation, and ensures a reliable food source for the future.
By adopting and expanding such initiatives, The Gambia can solidify its position as a leader in sustainable seafood production.
