A new women’s community garden in Boraba village, located 300 kilometers from Banjul, has been inaugurated with funding support of €29,000 from German non-governmental organizations and the German Embassy. The project, named Musolula Gardino (meaning “women’s garden” in Mandinka), aims to empower 100 women through horticultural production and beekeeping.
The German Ambassador to The Gambia, Klaus Botzet, attended the ceremony, highlighting the transformative potential of the initiative. The project provides the women with training in business and management skills, along with essential resources such as a borehole for water supply, fencing, garden tools, and a storage facility. Additionally, the women received training and materials to manage over 20 beehives in the village’s community forest.
Village leader Ansumana Danso expressed gratitude, noting that this marked the first diplomatic visit to the village since 1991. “We assure you that the support provided will be used effectively to achieve its purpose,” he said during the event held at the village center.
Despite the progress, the women still face challenges in preserving and marketing their produce. Sarjo Saidy Jaiteh, president of the women’s project, emphasized the need for storage facilities to reduce waste and ensure profitability.
One of the project’s international partners, an organic foundation based in Germany, praised the women’s dedication. “We are deeply impressed by the commitment and values of the women of Boraba, who are creating a sustainable future for their families and community,” read a statement from the foundation’s board members.
This initiative not only supports food security and economic empowerment but also fosters community cohesion, making it a significant step toward sustainable development in Boraba.
