President Barrow hails NFSPMC revival efforts, pledges continued support for agricultural reforms
In a pivotal meeting at the State House today, President Adama Barrow engaged in an in-depth briefing with the Board of Directors and the Management team of the National Food Security, Processing, and Marketing Corporation (NFSPMC), formerly known as the Gambia Groundnut Corporation (GGC).
The discussion centered on the current state of the corporation and ongoing efforts to reform and revitalize its operations.
President Barrow commenced the session by expressing his gratitude to the NFSPMC team for their diligent work in resuscitating the corporation.
He highlighted the dire conditions his administration had inherited, which included wrongful terminations that had imposed significant financial burdens on the government.
“The funds expended on addressing these wrongful terminations could have been more effectively utilized to recapitalize the Corporation,” President Barrow remarked, underscoring the importance of prudent resource management.
The president lauded NFSPMC for its successful collaboration with local farmers and reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering support. He encouraged the corporation to explore innovative funding channels to enhance its financial sustainability. President Barrow stressed the critical need to add value to The Gambia’s primary cash crop, groundnut, and reiterated his government’s commitment to supporting value addition initiatives and sustainable food security policies.
Chairman Seyfo Falalo Touray provided an update on the Board’s efforts to rejuvenate the corporation. He emphasized the recruitment of qualified staff and the crucial role of government support in subsidizing fertilizers and providing seeds to farmers. These measures, he noted, are essential for boosting agricultural productivity and ensuring food security.
Managing Director Muhammed Njie shared comprehensive insights into the corporation’s progress in implementing reforms. He detailed the enhancements made in governance and operational efficiency, the completion of outstanding audits, and the submission of reports to the State-Owned Enterprises (SOE) Commission. Njie also highlighted advancements in the processing plant and initiatives to explore alternative energy sources and digitalization to modernize the corporation’s operations.
Agriculture Minister Dr. Demba Sabally echoed the sentiments of support, assuring the NFSPMC team of the government’s steadfast commitment. He revealed that the Cabinet has approved a Cooperative Policy designed to guide and support the corporation’s reform efforts. This policy framework aims to foster a more cooperative and sustainable agricultural sector.
President Barrow’s engagement with the NFSPMC underscores his administration’s dedication to revitalizing key national institutions and supporting the agricultural sector. His call for innovative funding solutions and emphasis on value addition reflect a strategic vision aimed at enhancing The Gambia’s agricultural output and ensuring long-term food security.
The corporation is poised to play a pivotal role in The Gambia’s agricultural landscape.
The combined efforts of the government, NFSPMC, and local farmers signal a promising future for the nation’s food security and agricultural prosperity.
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