By Nelson Manneh
The Gambia Environmental Alliance (GEA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment on Wednesday, 30 April, 2024 launched the Great Green Wall Blueprint and the National Citizens Assembly.
The Great Green Wall Initiative signifies a collective commitment to combating climate change, restoring ecosystems, and securing a sustainable future for our beloved continent.
The Great Green Wall Frontline National Citizens Assembly is Africa’s first Rural-Led climate assembly, where frontline communities actively participate in shaping a National Action Plan for the Great Green Wall.
The plan is co-created by those mostly impacted by climate change and environmental degradation. It signifies a powerful and innovative step towards inclusive environmental governance and sustainable development.
Mr Lamin Saidykhan, the Governor of North Bank Region, said the unwavering commitment of GEA in his region has been instrumental in empowering their communities and fostering sustainable development.
“Through the support we received from GEA, we have embarked on a journey that harnesses the original knowledge and expertise of my people to address the unique challenge posed by climate change. The campaign for the Great Green Wall aims to restore 100 hectares of degraded land in my region. It is promising to be a compelling solution to the many urgent threats not only facing my region but across the country,” he said.
According to him, the launching of the Great Green Wall blueprint holds immense significance for the North Bank Region as it not only highlights the importance of indigenous knowledge in tackling climate change, but also underscored the need for tailored solutions that address the specific needs of each community.
“By uniting 196 villages across seven Districts of NBR, we have created a platform for sharing expert knowledge and fostering collaboration to strengthen our collective efforts,” he said.
The Governor of NBR called on the central government, international partners, and private individuals to seize the opportunity presented by the Great Green Wall blueprint.
“Let us harness its potential to uplift the lives and livelihoods of the people of NBR, ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future for generations to come,” he said.
Governor Saidykhan added that the Great Green Wall is a spectacular bid to restore grassland and farmlands across the length and breadth of the North Bank Region.
“The initiative is designed to help families and nature to cope with climate change. It centers on the core narrative that the Great Green Wall is a compelling symbol of hope, addressing challenges ranging from climate change to food security and youth migration,” he said.
He said the activities of the Great Green Wall are a concrete example of man and nature working together to create a unique legacy for a new world for the next generation.
