President Adama Barrow has on Saturday officially handed over the first batch of 60 tractors and assorted agricultural machinery and equipment to selected farmers across the country. The tractors are the first batch of 180 machines procured by the government to enhance agricultural production, productivity and food security in The Gambia. This presentation forms part of the government's long-term strategy to mechanise agriculture in The Gambia and promote commercial farming. The tractors are the first batch of 180 tractors procured by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Security in partnership with Yonna Agribusiness company.The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture described this development as revolutionary as it would expand agricultural production, create jobs and enhance food security.The tractors are procured under an existing partnership with Yonna Group, a private financial institution which co-finances 50% of the cost, with payment spread over 4 years. Such an arrangement, Muhamed Manjung, the Chairman of the Yonna Group believes underscores his company's deep connections to rural communities and commitment to strategic investment in agricultural mechanisation and rural economic transformation.Speaking on behalf of the beneficiary farmers Alhaji Ceesay commended President Barrow for pioneering agricultural transformation in The Gambia by providing tractors to local farmers. Ceesay added that the government has also provided fertiliser to rural farmers at a ‘highly subsidised rate.’ These developments, Ceesay disclosed, now place rural farmers at a ‘greater advantage of attaining food security’ and contributing to national socio-economic development. He urged the beneficiaries to ensure the sustainable use of the tractors.President Adama Barrow described the development as a significant milestone in The Gambia's drive towards agricultural mechanisation and national food self-sufficiency. Since assuming office, the President has consistently expressed his desire to transform agriculture into a ‘mechanised, efficient, and business-oriented sector.’This presentation is expected to empower local farmers by providing them with the necessary modern equipment to engage in massive agricultural production to feed the nation and export the surplus to generate foreign exchange to drive growth and create jobs. His Excellency Adama Barrow commended all the parties involved for coming up with this financing arrangement to enhance sustainability, accountability and transparency. He, however, advised the beneficiary farmers to ‘take good care of these tractors and utilise them to make a difference in their lives.’ The President reassured that the government will continue to support farmers by providing them with the necessary tools and technical knowledge, as well as the expertise to enable them to realise their potential. He finally commended the Ministry of Agriculture and Yonna Group for the collaboration and partnership that has led to the successful presentation of the first batch of tractors.The presentation presided over by President Barrow at the State House, was attended by cabinet ministers, senior government officials, farmers and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector
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