By Lamin Fatty
Tumana Agency for Development (TAD) in partnership with Future In Our Hands The Gambia (FIOHTG) on Saturday, 17 August 2024 launched the Green Goals Initiative Project.
The launch program was held in Badar, Tumana District under the theme “Uniting for a Greener Future”.
As part of the launching program, an official opening of the football tournament was dedicated to Jainaba T. Sarr, Country Director of FIOHTG, and organised by the Tumana District Sports Committee. The opening match was played at Badar football field.
The executive director of Tumana Agency for Development (TAD), Muhammed Drammeh, said the Green Goals Initiative is a ground-breaking effort that brings the communities together as a united front for environmental sustainability.
“The Green Goals Initiative is a call to action for all of us to come together and address the environmental challenges that threaten our future,” he said.
Director Drammeh indicated that the initiative embodies TAD’s commitment to creating an inclusive platform for change. He added that the activities include a football tournament with impactful activities like tree nursery establishments in schools, capacity-building for climate advocacy clubs, and youth convergence forums addressing critical agricultural and environmental issues.
“It is not just an initiative but it is a call to action for every stakeholder to be part of a movement that nurtures our environment and secures a sustainable future for generations to come,” the TAD director said.
He registered his profound gratitude for the collaboration with the Tumana District Sports Committee and all their partners, adding that the idea is to work towards sustainable solutions their communities.
Samba Bah, the Governor of Upper River Region stated that the initiative represents a powerful symbol of unity, bringing together diverse stakeholders to address the pressing environmental and climate challenges of the nation.
“I urge everyone to participate collectively in national development through actions like these,” Governor Bah stated.
Professor Dr. SidatYaffa, goodwill Ambassador of TAD, said he was deeply honoured by this recognition and he is committed to supporting TAD both financially and technically to combat climate change.
“It is crucial that we all believe in it and act on the realities of climate change,” Professor Yaffa said.
Amadou Samba, Program Officer at Future In Our Hands, The Gambia (FIOHTG) extended gratitude to TAD for honouring their country Director, Mrs. Jainaba T. Sarr. He said dedicating the tournament to her is a well-deserved recognition of her unwavering commitment to partnership and national development.
Honourable Nfally Kora, National Assembly Member for Tumana Constituency, said the initiative is a remarkable step towards ensuring sustainable development in the region.
“I am proud to support this effort and will continue to collaborate with TAD to achieve our shared goals,” Honourable Kora said.
Abubacarr Danjo, Vice Chairman of Basse Area Council, said the initiative is not just about football.
“It is about uniting our communities to tackle the critical issues of climate change and environmental preservation,” Danjo said
He commended TAD for their effort and assured them of the Council’s support.