By Saikou Suwareh Jabai
The National Livestock Owners Association on October 10, 2016, concluded a day long sensitization on the forthcoming livestock census at the Association of Farmers Educators and Traders (AFET) conference hall in Brikama, West Coast Region.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief of Kombo Central Jammeh K.K. Bojang, highlighted the importance of the livestock census saying livestock contributes significantly to the national economy and livelihood of the population, with the potential to make significant contributions on the improvement of food security in their daily activities and the country’s economy.
“You all have a great role to play towards the census that would last for a period of a month,” he said.
The Gambia Livestock Marketing Agency (GLMA) Field Assistance, Samuel S.K. Mendy, told the gathering that the importance of the census is in connection with the attainment of food security and economic and social development goals set out by the government. He said the census will address the lack of accurate and reliable livestock data in the country.
“The outcome of the census will highlight the planning, policy formulation and legislation for the development of the livestock sector for improved economic growth and social well-being since it will also support the establishment of an animal resources data management structure to coordinate national livestock data while urging livestock owners to cooperate during the process,’’ he noted.
The President of the Association, Ebrima O. Jallow commended the Gambia Government and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) for their intervention.
He pointed out that the lack of reliable and accurate livestock data is a challenge in making informed decisions for the advancement of the livestock sector calling on members to participate and support the officials during the process and give accurate information for proper planning.
