Assessment of Agricultural Information Needs in Acp African States -West Africa

ASSESSMENT OF AGRICULTURAL INFORMATION NEEDS IN ACP AFRICAN STATES -WEST AFRICA

Country Study: The Gambia

Final Report

Prepared by:

Mamadi Baba Ceesay

on behalf of the

Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA)

Project: 4-7-41-254-7/e

30 July, 2008

ASSESSMENT OF AGRICULTURAL INFORMATION NEEDS IN ACP AFRICAN STATES -WEST AFRICA

Country Study: The Gambia

Final Report

Prepared by:

Mamadi Baba Ceesay

on behalf of the

Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA)

Project: 4-7-41-254-7/e

30 July, 2008

Disclaimer

This report has been commissioned by the CTA to enhance its monitoring of information needs in ACP countries. CTA does not guarantee the accuracy of data included in this report, nor does it accept responsibility for any use made thereof. The views and opinions expressed in this report are those of the author alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of CTA. CTA reserves the right to select projects and recommendations that fall within its mandate.

(ACP-EU) Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA) Agro Business Park 2 6708 PW Wageningen The Netherlands Website: www.cta.int E-mail: [email protected]

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

A vast number of people and institutions provided valuable support during the study and their efforts are gratefully acknowledged. I wish to however single out just a few. Alpha Sey and Seedy Demba provided Research Assistance, Dr. Omar Touray provided valuable insight on sources of information and Ellen Sambou Sarr provided secretarial support. I wish to express warmest gratitude to the Regional Study Coordinator Yawo Assigbley for the very useful editorial support.

I wish to thank CTA for funding the study and for the insight provided by Christine Webster and Ibrahim Khadar on CTA during the briefing meeting for the study. Finally, but not the least, I want to thank the many interviewees for the valuable time in filling the questionnaires.

LIST OF ACRONYMS

ACD Agricultural Communication Division ACP African Caribbean and Pacific AGOA Africa Growth and Opportunities Act AASAT Association for the Advancement of Science and Technology CGIAR Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research CILSS Permanent Interstate Committee for Drought Control in The Sahel CPAG Consumer protection Association of The Gambia CTA Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation CSD Central Statistics Department DCD Department of Community Development DOP Department of Planning DOSA Department of State for Agriculture DOSCIT Department of State for Communication, Information Technologies ECOWAS Economic Community of West African States EPA Economic Partnership Agreements FAO Food and Agriculture Organization GAMLISA Gambia Library Staff Association GAMTEL Gambia Telecommunication Company Limited GDP Gross Domestic Product GHE Gambia Horticultural Enterprises GIS Geographic Information System GRTS Gambia Radio and Television Services GTTI Gambia Technical Training Institute HND Higher National Diploma ICM Information and Communication Management ICT Information and Communication Technologies ICRISAT International Crop Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics IITA International Institute for Tropical Agriculture ILO International Labour Organization ILRI International Livestock Research Institute IT Information Technology ITAG Information Technology Association of The Gambia ITC International Trypanotolerant Centre ITOCA International Training and Outreach Centre for Africa IRRI International Rice Research Institute ISP Internet Service Provider MISTOWA Market Information System for Traders’ Association in West Africa MRC Medical Research Council NADA National Agricultural Development Agency NAOSU National Authority Office Support Unit NARI National Agricultural Research Institutes NASS National Africultural Sample Survey NAWEC National Water and Electricity Corporation NAWFA National Women Farmer’s Association NGO Non Governmental Organization NFPG National Farmer’s Platform, The Gambia NICI National Information and Communication Infrastructure iii

PER Public Expenditure Review PURA Pubic Utilities Regulatory Agency QAS Question and Answer Service TANGO The Organization of Non Governmental Organization UNDP United Nations Development Programme UNECA United Nations Economic Commission for Africa UTG University of The Gambia VSAT Very Small Aperture Terminal WARDA West Africa Rice Development Agency WB Women’s Bureau WTG World View, The Gambia WTO World Trade Organization

CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS OF DALASI TO EURO AS AT 18/04/08 Currency Buying Selling Euro € 30.50. 31.50

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS...... ii LIST OF ACRONYMS ...... iii EXECUTIVE SUMMARY...... vii

1. INTRODUCTION ...... 1 2. COUNTRY PROFILE ...... 2 2.1 Brief Description of Agriculture and Recent Developments in the Sector...... 2 2.1.1 Agriculture...... 2 2.1.2 Fisheries ...... 3 2.1.3 Forestry...... 3 2.1.4 Pastoralism ...... 4 2.2 Brief Description of the Status of the ICT Infrastructure and recent Development in the Sector ...... 4 3. STATUS OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION FOR AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT ...... 6 3.1 Institutional and Regulatory Policy Framework ...... 6 3.2 Operational Aspects ...... 6 3.2.1 Description of Agricultural information and Services...... 7 3.2.2 Information Sources...... 9 3.2.3 Information Products and Services Provided ...... 10 3.2.4 Information and Communication Management Capacity...... 10 3.3 Interventions Supporting Information and Communication for Agriculture and Rural Development...... 11 4. INSTITUTIONAL NEEDS ANALYSIS (STRENGTHS, MAIN BOTTLENECKS AND SHORTCOMINGS) ...... 12 4.1 Information Needs ...... 14 4.2 Capacity-building Needs (IC Policies & Strategies, Sensitization, Networking, Skills, Training, Media, ICT, Equipment) ...... 16 4.3 Feedback on CTA Products and Services ...... 17 5. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS...... 19 5.1 Conclusions...... 19 5.1.1 Information Needs...... 19 5.1.2 Capacity Building Needs...... 20 5.1.3 Overview of CTA Products and Services...... 20 5.1.4 Potential Strategic Partners ...... 21 5.2 Recommendations ...... 21 5.2.1 Information Needs...... 21 5.2.2 Capacity Building Needs...... 21 5.2.3. CTA Products and Services...... 22 5.2.4. Potential Strategic Partner Institutions...... 22 6. PROPOSED CTA INTERVENTION STRATEGY AND ACTION PLAN...... 24 6.1 Proposed Intervention Strategy...... 24 6.2 Action Plan for CTA Intervention Strategy...... 25

ANNEXES...... 27 ANNEX 1. TERMS OF REFERENCE ...... 28 ANNEX 2. COUNTRY PROFILE - (THE GAMBIA) ...... 35 2.1 General Agriculture Profile ...... 35 2.1.1 Size of the Agricultural Population ...... 36 2.1.2 Farmed Land, Forest and Fishing ...... 36 2.1.3 Agricultural Systems ...... 38 2.1.4 Agriculture in the Economy...... 38 2.1.5 Main Agricultural Produce and Secondary Products ...... 39 2.1.6 Main Export markets...... 41 2.1.7 Trade Agreements that Include Agriculture ...... 43 v

2.1.8 Sector Policy related to Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry...... 43 2.1.9 Institutional, regulatory and policy framework for information and communication..... 46 2.2 Socioeconomic Profile ...... 47 2.2.1 Demographics...... 47 2.2.2 Literacy Levels and Languages ...... 49 2.2.3 Access to Services...... 49 2.2.4 Rural to Urban Drift...... 51 2.3 Media and Telecommunication...... 52 2.3.1 Newspapers, periodicals and broadcast media...... 52 2.3.2 Telecommunication Services...... 54 2.2.3 Computers and Internet ...... 55 ANNEX 3. PROFILE OF INSTITUTIONS...... 57 3.1 List of Institutions in the Agricultural and Rural Development Sector...... 57 3.2. List of Selected Institutions...... 69 ANNEX 4. LIST OF PERSONS MET ...... 83 ANNEX 5. BIBLIOGRAPHY ...... 84

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Introduction

The Technical Centre for agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA) established in 1983 under the Lomé Convention between ACP (African, Caribbean and Pacific) and European Union Member States, aims to develop and provide services that improve access to information for agricultural and rural development, and to strengthen the capacity of ACP countries to produce, acquire, exchange and utilise information in this area.

CTA’s programmes are organised around three principal activities: providing an increasing range and quantity of information products and services and enhancing awareness of relevant information sources; supporting the integrated use of appropriate communication channels and intensifying contacts and information exchange (particularly intra-ACP); and developing ACP capacity to generate and manage agricultural information and to formulate information and communication management (ICM) strategies, including those relevant to science and technology. This work is effected through intermediary organizations and partners (public sector, NGOs, farmer’s organizations and private sector). The study provides an updated country profile on the status of ICT/ICM and agricultural information services which will allow CTA to make informed decisions on the type and mode of intervention as well as select partners.

Objectives of the Study The main objective of the study is to identify potential strategic partners for CTA to work with to improve the availability and effectiveness of their information and services to beneficiaries in the country. Specifically, the study is aimed at:

providing an overview of main agricultural services and actors existing in the country (information supply side) in terms of their strengths, weaknesses and opportunities for collaboration with CTA; identifying agricultural information and ICM capacity building needs of key actors / key strategic partners for CTA products and services; identifying potential strategic partners for CTA activities and services (paying special attention to e.g. print media, editors, radio, TV and journalist networks); developing some baseline data on the status of ICM and ICTs in the country to facilitate subsequent monitoring and updating activities.

Methodology The study commenced following a briefing meeting held in Abidjan to harmonize the study methodology. Subsequently, a desk study was conducted as a first step to collect available data on agriculture and rural development in The Gambia together with information on media and telecommunication. A compilation of institutions involved in agriculture and rural development was prepared. This constituted Annex 2: the country profile and Annex 3.

Of the institutions identified, 17 were selected to represent the diversity of interventions present in the agriculture and rural development sector in the Gmabia, namely: policy, farmer organizations, research institutions, institutes of higher education and the media and civil society. As a second step, interview using a questionnaire designed by the CTA vii

was conducted with the 17 institutions selected. The results of the interviews were analysed and constitute the findings of the report.

Expected Results

The expected results of the study are as follow:

status of infrastructure, information services and ICM capacity of institutions involved in agriculture and rural development described and analyzed; information and capacity building needs in the area of ICM identified for key institutions and potential CTA partners involved in agriculture and rural development; baseline data on the status of ICM and ICT in agriculture and rural development compiled for monitoring purposes and improved outreach.

Conclusions

Information Needs Information gaps exist for all the institutions surveyed due to a lack of adequate awareness of sources, budgetary inadequacies and inaccessible formats. Inadequate staffing and lack of motivation were also mentioned as factors inhibiting optimal utilization of information for efficiency and proficiency on the job. The gaps varied between the institutions with the situation most acute for the governmental agencies (policy, research, academia and the media) than those of the NGOs, private sector and farmer organizations requiring relatively narrower range of information needs for their operations. It was also revealed that libraries and documentation centres do not generally have sufficient or updated reference materials including Internet-linked libraries for personnel.

A number of useful lessons have been learnt including that stakeholders particularly farmers are able to utilize ICT to acquire information and enhance skill levels for improved livelihood. This however requires sensitization/awareness creation, training and initial maintenance support. The broadcast media (radio and TV) can be employed as effective channels to provide market, production and technical information in a timely manner. However the cost of sustaining the system can be high and revenue generating mechanisms have to be introduced for sustainability. Reliability and access to accompanying social and amenities such as electricity and telecommunication are also essential for effective utilization of ICT.

It is clear from the current survey and numerous other studies that face-to-face contact and verbal communication with farmers and rural communities is the preferred and most effective means of information exchange in rural areas, with print, electronic and other media of lesser but not negligible importance. Effective extension delivery is critical for accelerated agricultural and rural development. In the Gambia extension information dissemination is inhibited by lack of mobility, few messages and inadequate staff numbers.

In the extension delivery system there has been a gradual shift to participatory extension approaches with closer interaction among researchers, extensionists, farmers, input suppliers and other stakeholders to develop locally applicable and innovative solutions to farmers’ problems. Consequently, the Farmer Field School concept is now being introduced by NADA. viii

Information formats and communication channels are generally not tailored to the requirements of the clientele. Given the high level of illiteracy and the wide use of radio, the use of radio and TV as sources of information for a large proportion of the population particularly farmers is critical. However, experience in the sub-region indicate that other ICTs such as the mobile phone and the Internet can play a pivotal role particularly in the rapid dissemination of market information. The category of information needs by the institutions surveyed cover broadly: rural development focusing on social development issues, farm problems (land tenure), gender and available agricultural information networks. Library services are being provided by institutions in both the public and private sector generally with limited materials. However, efforts are ongoing through Gambia Library and Information Services Assocations(GAMLISA) aimed at better coordination,enhanced capacity in library management to users through exchange and sharing of materials.

Technical Information Technical information needs to centre on post-harvest loss reduction technologies, transportation, integrated pest management, waste management and specific areas including (varieties, input management, soil fertility and water control, animal heath and nutrition, and appropriate mechanization).

Economic information Specific economic information needs to centre on market related data (prices, commodity profiles for exporters, volumes and requirements), crop insurance systems, etc. Availability of this information will enhance productivity and facilitate marketing of farmers produce.

These information needs can be addressed through enhanced access to the mass media and in formats as well as channels such as the radio, TV, bulletins, flyers but also through Internet, libraries, documentation centres and Internet-linked libraries.

Capacity Building Needs The staffing and skill levels were reported to be generally low in ICM for the institutions surveyed. Thus upgrading skill levels will increase efficiency, effectiveness and culminate in the realization of the goals of the organizations. Most of the institutions have libraries/documentation centres although most are inadequately manned and are not stocked with updated reference materials, while formats of materials are not adapted to local requirements. The survey revealed that only few have ICM units and even fewer have ICM strategies which could contribute to better articulation of needs and facilitate funding from potential donors for equipment, training and material support. In essence the capacity of most of the institutions is inhibited by inadequate equipment and few staff with limited skills in ICM.

In view of the above, increasing ICM skills of personnel, providing equipment support, developing strategies and partnerships with CTA and other collaborators will enhance output and efficiency.

Equipment There is a lack of adequate updated equipment and software due to low budgetary allocations especially to the governmental institutions. This has hampered the feability to acquire and maintain computers and peripherals, other equipment and continued access to websites used for obtaining relevant information. ix

Overview of CTA Products and Services Awareness and benefit of CTA products and services has been limited to only a few institutions in The Gambia and confined to the Spore magazine and publications. Given the usefulness and relevance of CTA products and services notably the Rural Radio Resource Packs (RRRP), training, co-publishing, equipment support, Spore and ICT Update, greater awareness needs to be created and access enhanced.

Potential Strategic Partners In view of the information and capacity building needs of the institutions studied and given the pivotal role of information for agricultural production and productivity, linkage with internal and external agencies is both relevant and critical. In this regard partnership with CTA is essential for most of the institutions surveyed. Key amongst these are ( National Agricultural Research Institute(NARI), Department of Planning (DOP), The Association of Non-Governmental Organizations(TANGO), Association for the Advancement of Science and Technology in The Gambia(AASAT), The University of The Gambia(UTG) and National Farmers Platform, The Gambia(NFPG).

Recommendations Given the foregoing conclusions and their resolution for effective information access essential to ensure accelerated agriculture and rural development, the following recommendations are proposed:

Information Needs Undertake concerted efforts at national and regional levels (West Africa) to develop a network of users and producers of agriculture and rural development information through exchange visits, study tours and joint training courses. This will engender greater awareness, sharing and access to each others information but also coordination amongst the stakeholders.

Given the limited awareness of CTA products and services in The Gambia and their consequent low utilization, organize an awareness forum at national level to exhibit and popularize them. This will provide an opportunity for most of the institutions in agriculture and rural development to meet their information requirements.

Avail institutions involved in the dissemination of information to farmers and rural dwellers the opportunity to improve on appropriate techniques of information formatting and utilization to make them respond to the requirements of stakeholders. In this regard support for availability of timely and appropriate market information to producers and traders, policy makers and researchers on horticulture, cereals, fish and livestock will be essential.

Provide support to Gambia Library Services Association (GAMLISA) and libraries/documentation centres to increase their stock of reference materials, websites and linkage to Internet-linked libraries and information sources.

Capacity Building Needs Make concerted efforts through CTA support to strengthen the capacity of researchers, extension agents and development workers in government, NGO and private sector services to ensure their orientation towards meeting the information needs of their clientele. x

Undertake capacity building in strategy development to enable institutions develop partnerships and access resources to meet their organizational goals. Enhanced capacity in strategy development will contribute towards resolving constraints linked to inadequate budgetary availability.

Support to the provision of equipment (computers, Geographic Information System (GIS)) and updated software to ensure sustainable access to modern ICTs by institutions involved in ICM for agriculture and rural development.

CTA Products and Services Engender greater awareness of CTA products and services in The Gambia through workshops, seminars; provide capacity building through training; enhance access to library materials, Question and Answer Service (QAS), Spore and ICT Update and equipment support.

Potential Strategic Partner Institutions Develop strategic partnership with organizations particularly NARI, DOP, TANGO, AASAT, UTG, NFPG. Specific areas requiring CTA partnerships are training, support for publications (library materials), access to websites, QAS and for equipment support. Proposed areas of partnership by institution are presented below:

¾ Enhance radio and TV outreach through Gambia Radio and Television Services (GRTS) and local FM radios by the provision of RRRP, training in ICM including developing materials of appropriate format and provision of ICT equipment.

¾ Enhance outreach of agricultural and rural development messages through partnership with Agricultural Communication Division(ACD) by training in ICM including the development of appropriate extension messages/materials and equipment support

¾ Enhance capacity of DOP through provision of GIS equipment and training support, Website establishment and maintenance, training in Information management (library/documentation management and database establishment and management).

¾ Collaboration with NARI in QAS, website establishment and maintenance, training in information management (library/documentation management, database establishment and management) and publications from CTA.

¾ Enhanced capacity of Department of Community Development (DCD) through ICM training, literature materials on rural development and ICT equipment support

¾ Enhanced capacity of the Women’s Bureau in ICM training, publications from CTA(literature materials on agricultural and rural development) and ICT equipment support.

¾ Support to the Gambia College through enhanced access to publications from CTA (literature materials on agriculture and rural development), training on information management and ICT equipment support

¾ Assistance to the University of the Gambia through training in information management (library/documentation management), publications from CTA (literature on agricultural and rural development) and ICT equipment support.

¾ Enhance capacity of TANGO through provision of publications from CTA (literature materials on agricultural and rural development), ICT equipment support and Website development and maintenance.

¾ Further enhance capacity of WTG through training on information management (ICM management) Spore and ICT Update.

xii

1. INTRODUCTION

1. The Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA) aims to develop and provide services that improve access to information for agricultural and rural development, and to strengthen the capacity of African, Caribbean & Pacific (ACP) countries to produce, acquire, exchange and utilise information in this area. CTA’s programmes are organised around three principal activities: providing an increasing range and quantity of information products and services and enhancing awareness of relevant information sources; supporting the integrated use of appropriate communication channels and intensifying contacts and information exchange (particularly intra-ACP); and developing ACP capacity to generate and manage agricultural information and to formulate information and communication management (ICM) strategies, including those relevant to science and technology.

2. Since 2003, CTA has been systematically conducting needs assessment studies across the Pacific, Caribbean and Africa regions. These studies should assist CTA improve and better target interventions and activities aimed at potential partners and beneficiaries (including women, youth, private sector and civil society organisations) and provide a more informed picture of their needs and aid in the elaboration of a strategy and framework of action.

3. The main objective of the study is to identify potential strategic partners for CTA to work with to improve the availability and effectiveness of their information and services to beneficiaries in the country.

4. The country study covered seventeen institutions (17), ranging from Government, NGOs, a farmer’s associations and the private sector. Each of the institutions was visited to conduct interviews, using a standardised semi-structured questionnaire, with key personnel involved in ICM in each organisation. The list of personnel interviewed is annexed to the report.

2. COUNTRY PROFILE

5. The Gambia situated on the West Coast of Africa lies between latitudes 13 and 14 degrees north and is surrounded except on the Atlantic Coast line by Senegal. It has a population of 1.4 million and covers an area of 11,000 km2. The topography is flat resulting in the tidal effects of the river being felt as far as 300 km upstream. In the lower reaches of the river large areas are under tidal swamps. Beyond these however, the river banks are steep and require pump uplift for irrigation.

6. The climate is typically “sahelian” characterized by a distinct prolonged dry season and a relatively shorter wet season. Average annual rainfall is about 1,000mm but ranges from 850 mm - 1,597 mm depending on the agro-ecological zone. Rainfall is the most important determining factor in Gambian agriculture with an observed declining trend over the last 3 decades.

7. The agricultural sector is characterized by subsistence rainfed crop production, traditional livestock rearing, semi-commercial groundnut and horticultural production and a large artisanal fisheries subsector. The major agriculural enterprises are field crops comprising groundnuts, cotton, coarse grains (maize, millet and sorghum), rice and sesame; horticultural crops; livestock mainly poultry, cattle and small ruminants and, fisheries both artisanal and industrial. Strongly interlinked with these are the water resources, wildlife and forest resource sub-sectors.

8. English is the official language and is the medium of instruction in conventional schools from nursery to tertiary levels. The Gambia is a multi-ethnic with a number of vernacular spoken comprising mandinka (40%), fulla (19%), wollof (15%), jola (11%), serrere (3%), aku (2%) and bambara(1%). The Gambia’s adult literacy rate stands at 48% (58% men and 37% women). Figures on urbanization from the 2003 Housing and Population Census indicate that 51% of the population live in the urban area.

2.1 Brief Description of Agriculture and Recent Developments in the Sector

2.1.1 Agriculture

9. The Gambia is predominantly an agrarian economy with agriculture and natural resources sector, the engine of economic development. It provides livelihoods for about 70% of the population employs 52% of the labour force, contributes 22-29% of GDP and 80% of foreign exchange earnings(Gambia Bureau Statistics,2007). The main cash products are groundnuts, cotton, horticulture, livestock and fisheries, while subsistence crops are composed of cereals such as millet, sorghum, maize and rice. Small-scale manufacturing activity features the processing of peanuts, fish, and hides. There are generally more female than male farmers (cf. Annex 2, Table 1).

10. Crop production is a major agricultural activity with some 250,000 ha annualy cultivated out of a total cultivable land of 558,000 ha. The largest area to a single crop is allocated to groundnuts, which occupies almost 45% of the cultivated area mainly in

upland fields under rainfed conditions. An average of 120,000 ha. of upland are also annualy allocated to coarse grains comprisig early millet, late millet, maize and sorhum.. The main staple crop, rice occupies an average of about 15,000 ha. of lowland farms under rainfed and improved technologies ( Table 2 Annex 2).

11. Agricultural output is generated by about 74, 000 farm households cultivating 287,000 ha or 51% of total arable land. Only about two-third of households actually sell their farm produce, which is indicative of the subsitence nature of Gambian agriculture. Almost half of the households derive their income from sale crops, mainly groundnuts and 38% from the sale of other crops( PER ).

12. Production systems are characterized by rainfall dependent, low investment small- scale, family-oriented production units. Around 85% of the households cultivate less than 1.5 hectare. Average crop yield are rather low with 1 000 kg/ha for groundnuts and early millet, about 1 3000 kg/ha for maize and 1 100 kg/ha and 1 600 kg/ha for upland and swamp rice respectively. Only a limited area is put mainly under irrigated rice (tidal and pump confined to the Central River Region and horticultural production using underground water resources).

2.1.2 Fisheries

13. The sector contributes 3-4% of GDP, employs 30,000 in the artisanal fishery subsector (fishermen,processors,traders, boat builders) with 200,000 deriving their livelihood from fisheries activities. With a continental shelf of 3,855 square kilometres, and a 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zone, The Gambia is endowed with rich marine and riverine zone. Fisheries constitute an important natural resource and provider of cheap protein for a significant proportion of the population. It is estimated that the Maximum Sustainable Yield from the Gambia’s continental shelf and estuarine area is 80,000 MT per year, whilst current catches are put at 30,000-40,000 Mt. The fisheries sub-sector is dominated by artisanal fishing practices. The data on fish catches from 1992 to 2004 by artisanal and industrial fisheries subsectors indicate dwindling catches from the industrial sector whilst those of the artisanal sector show an increasing trend (Annex 2, Table 8). High post-harvest losses, lack of credit, low skill levels and lack of infrastructure for landing constitute key constraints encountered in the sector.

2.1.3 Forestry

14. The sector contributes 1% of GDP and is main source of domestic household energy and 17% of timber needs. The Gambia’s forest is predominantly of savannah woodland with the density of the cover varying according to location. The moist western part of the country is covered with Guinea savannah vegetation whilst the drier eastern part is dominated by sudano vegetation. The forest area can be classified into high mangrove, gallery forest, closed and open woodland, shrubs and gmelina plantation. Annex 2, Table 3 presents data on the area allocated to the various typologies of vegetation and changes in forest cover respectively. Because of concerted efforts the rapid decline in forest cover has now stabilized, though the current trend in forest cover is one of changing density and composition of the species.

2.1.4 Pastoralism

15. The sector contributes 5-7% of GDP with most rural households keeping one or more livestock. Livestock comprises cattle, small ruminants, and various species of poultry, pigs and equines. They constitute important sources of food, income, manure and farm power. The livestock population comprises 300,000 cattle; 140,000 - 150,000 sheep and 200,000-230,000 goats; 13,000 pigs; and, 700,000 chickens (NASS, 2006). Despite the large number of cattle off-take remains low due to holding of stocks as reserves of wealth by owners. Per capita meat consumption is estimated at 8 kg per annum. Large volumes of meat, eggs and milk are annually imported to meet consumption requirements. Livestock production practices are largely traditional with low input and extensive management systems. This is particularly the case for large ruminants comprising cattle and for small ruminants and village poultry. However a few livestock enterprises managed under semi intensive and intensive livestock production systems are emerging in the urban and peri-urban areas to satisfy the relatively high consumer demand.

2.2 Brief Description of the Status of the ICT Infrastructure and recent Development in the Sector

16. The Gambia has a fairly developed ICT infrastructure with an emerging vibrant telecommunication market comprising fixed telephony, mobile telephony and Internet services. There are some 80,000 fixed lines, over 350,000 mobile subscribers and about 16-18 personal computers per 1000 persons. The fixed line telephony is dominated by GAMTEL with several equipped branches strategically located throughout the country. A number of telecentres operated by private enterprises exists complimenting service provision. The pending Telecommunication Bill is expected to open competition for fixed lines.

17. The mobile telephony is operated by GAMCELL, AFRICELL and COMIUM. Although mobile connection costs are relatively high, increased competition among operators has brought down process particularly for connection and recharging services

18. There are five commercial ISP providers and some non-commercial ISP providers (UNDP, MRC, FAO etc). The ISPs generally possess wireless infrastructure configured for high speed Internet service but have been constrained to consistently offer such service due to limited bandwidth controlled by GAMTEL. The use of ICT equipment is hindered by the lack of reliable support/complimentary services particularly electricity with the situation more acute in the rural areas where equipment can lie idle for long without use. With only few trained ICT personnel retention, has become difficult and most ICT firms have inadequate manpower to cater for existing equipment. The Regulatory framework for ICT is provided by the Public Utilities and Regulatory Authority (PURA).

19. With the assistance of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), the government with the goal of transforming the country into a technologically advanced and information rich society, formulated a National Information and Communication Infrastructure (NICI) Policy and Plan for The

Gambia(December,2004). The NICI aims at providing a catalytic atmosphere for harnessing ICT in all sectors. The specific objectives of the NICI include:

¾ Liberalizing the ICT sector, increase cooperation and provide more choice for consumers; ¾ Promoting the establishment of appropriate ICT information services by investors; and, ¾ Encouraging public-private partnership to provide the ICT infrastructure as well as attract both foreign and domestic investment in the sector.

20. A 2005 survey on ICT use and infrastructure indicated that 45.1 % of the government offices had sufficient number of work stations and servers. However, an in depth review of the physical cluster of the equipment revealed that the spread of the ICT equipment is not balanced with some offices having the majority of the equipment in large numbers whilst others are relatively poor. The situation for the rural locations is particularly poor. In general budgetary allocations to ICT by the public sector have been inadequate. The survey revealed that a number of public and private institutions are connected to high speed Internet. A number of key challenges remain including:

¾ a lack of reliable support services; ¾ availability of a handful of ICT personnel; ¾ limited number of internal information exchange through LANs; ¾ frequent disconnections while on line and limited band width; and, ¾ unreliability and frequent power outages.

3. STATUS OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION FOR AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

3.1 Institutional and Regulatory Policy Framework

21. The regulation of information in The Gambia is undertaken by the Department of State for Information Communication and Technologies (DOSCIT) which covers the broadcast media (television and radio) and telecommunication. There is however currently very little restriction of communication and exchange of information for agricultural and rural development by the various media (print & electronic). The main media limitation relate to the newspapers which are regulated by the Media Bill.

22. As previously mentioned, the Government has recently formulated a National Information and Communication Policy (NICI) which incorporates all sectors including agriculture. The specific agricultural objectives include:

• the delivery of strategic information to farmers, government authorities and other players; development of a national strategy that incorporates the use of ICT as a link between agriculture and trade; • the use of ICT to expose local products to larger international markets leading to improvements in the quality of traditional and non-traditional products for exports; • access to the global electronic markets as an agent of economic development in the agricultural sector providing farmers an opportunity to market their products globally, and get online access to market-oriented information; • the use of ICT for research and effective management of natural resources; and • the use of ICT to facilitate collaboration, networking and information dissemination/sharing on strategies and good practices in the agriculture at regional and international level between government industry and academia and use ICT to support agricultural research, training and production as well as improving indigenous technology.

23. Current efforts towards widespread communication of agricultural and rural development information include the promotion of private and community radio stations and the liberalisation of the telecommunications sector. The latter has allowed increased competition and is expected to bring down the price of particularly mobile telephone and Internet services.

24. The Government has also introduced a zero tax on ICT equipment to promote their availability and use. Despite this, the cost of computers and peripheral remains high. Amongst those institutions selected for the current study, only DOSCIT mentioned the zero-rated tax as promoting ICT use in the country.

3.2 Operational Aspects

25. Apart from DOSCIT, none of the selected institutions had formulated a comprehensive policy on or strategic plans for ICM. However, none of these institutions

indicated that the lack of an institutional ICM strategy on ICM negatively affected their day-to-day activities or their organisation’s ability to achieve its stated goals.

26. A number of libraries and documentation centres exist in the various agricultural and rural development institutions where cataloguing, indexing and security of materials is ensured for usage. The amount of materials and capacity in library management vary according to the institution. Generally, materials are in print format with few electronic materials (including offline libraries) mostly in CD-ROM format from organizations such as the FAO (AGORA offering possibility to access 1136 publications and journals), International Training and Outreach Centre for Africa (ITOCA) and Permanent Inter- State Committee for Drought Control in the Sahel (CILSS). Due to the limited budgetary allocations, materials are donated and updated journals and books are not available. None of the libraries/documentation centres have linkages with external virtual libraries. There is also limited coordination of information or materials among the libraries/documentation centres to engender exchange.

27. Other constraints inhibiting optimal utilization of library/documentation centres include:

• a shortage of skilled staff and absence of training institutions offering courses on library management or record keeping; • limited access to materials due to inadequate budget and unwillingness of individuals to surrender documents to libraries; • a lack of ICT equipment and software to retrieve, store and manage materials; and • a lack of adequate security for materials with borrowed materials not returned.

3.2.1 Description of Agricultural information and Services

28. Agricultural information and related services in The Gambia are provided by the Agricultural Communication Division (ACD), Department of Planning (DOP), National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI), the Gambia Radio and Television Services (GRTS), private and community radio stations, CTA and various regional and international institutions.

29. NARI and ITC are the primary bodies responsible for agricultural research in The Gambia, the latter being a regional livestock research organization. In addition, a number of other organisations including specialized departments, NGOs and the University of the Gambia undertake limited research, while NARI collaborates with regional and international research organizations such as West African Rice Development Association (WARDA), International Institute of Tropical agriculture (IITA), International Crop Research institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics(ICRISAT), International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) the International Trypanotolerant Centre (ITC) collaborates with Universities (mostly in Europe) and International Livestock Research Institute(ILRI). Most research organizations in The Gambia collaborate more with regional and international research organisations and universities because of their limited (and declining) human and financial resources.

30. Research is presented at the Annual Research Review (ARREV) and published internally but increasingly in international journals and available at libraries/documentation centres of government departments, NGOs and international funding organizations such as FAO and UNDP. A number of institutions have plans to develop databases e.g. the Department of Planning that is also working to establish and operate a web site.

31. Research information is sometimes repackaged in various formats for publication or with the extension services. The main agricultural magazine is the “SENELAA” (the farmer) by the Agricultural Communication Division (ACD) initially published quarterly but whose frequency of publication has become low due to limited budgetary resources . A number of agricultural development projects have funded the preparation of manuals, leaflets/flyers sometimes in pictorial formats and with illustrations aimed principally at the farming community. Such materials have generally been prepared by the ACD and cover commodities (maize, beans, poultry etc).

32. Regular radio programmes (Radio Gambia, Basse and Community Radios) and the Television (GRTS) disseminate news, technical and market information (no longer available as the project implementing the project has been completed) to a large audience. Agricultural radio programmes have the largest audience estimated at 200,000 with regular listenership.

33. The CTA-supported services available are the Spore magazine and publications. There is no agricultural QAS (QAS) in The Gambia nor are there any answer telephonic or email queries.

34. The primary link between research organisations and farmers in the dissemination of improved packages and messages are the extension agencies. On the ground, the task is undertaken by the front extension agents operating at village level (Village Extension Workers-VEWs) or through District Extension Centres (DECs). Similarly, many commodity organisations, farmers’ associations (e.g. National Women Farmers Association (NAWFA), NFPG) and NGOs have field staff who advise farmers and communities.

35. Education and training courses are the most widespread and effective means employed to transfer information, knowledge and skills to target audience. Such training support is absolutely critical to ensure the success of agriculture and rural development programmes. Courses range from General Certificate, Higher National Diploma(HND and Undergraduate degrees in agriculture, rural development and related disciplines offered by The Gambia College and the University of The Gambia. The National Agricultural Development Agency (NADA), DCD and many NGOs provide field courses, demonstrations, as well as organize and facilitate horizontal learning exchanges through agricultural shows and visits/tours.

36. The Internet, particularly the Web, is beginning to be used for agricultural information dissemination and exchange. Recently, Market information system for Traders of West Africa/Gambia Horticultural Enterprises (MISTOWA/GHE) has been collecting market information and posting in the web. Farmers groups are being sensitized and trained to use the web to access information which available for other countries in West Africa.

3.2.2 Information Sources

37. The selected institutions utilize various information sources ranging from personal collections, documentation centres/libraries, Internet, national, regional and international research institutions as well as through radio and television. Table 1 provides detailed information source by institution. Table 1 reveals that regional and international organizations, personal collections and Internet constitute the most important sources of information. In this regard CTA emerged as the single most important source notably through the Spore magazine (the only CTA product of which aware).

38. Staff interviewed, reported making use of various information resources available at their institute (in a library, resource centre, database, personal collection, etc). Many indicated that the personal collections, knowledge and experience of their colleagues within the organisation is a highly valued internal source of information, as are colleagues and personal contacts in other organisations, locally and abroad, with whom they interact through email and at meetings, conferences, workshops, training courses, and various other fora.

Table 1: Information Source by Institution Institution Information Source DOSCIT ITU, WATRA, ICANN, CILSS, NARI, NADA, Internet GRTS Radio programmes (Radio Netherlands, Radio Deutchewelle, UN Radio, RFI), ACD, TV programmes, Department of State for Agriculture NARI ICRISAT, WARDA, IITA, ISRA, regional research institutions, newspapers, radio programmes, TV programmes, Internet, agricultural research electronic network, agribusiness consultant DOP CILSS, Internet, producers, market vendors, government information, CTA ACD CTA, DOSA, ICRISAT, farmers, FAO, radio programs, Internet, TV, video presentations, colleagues, booklets Gambia College CTA, NARI/DOSA, beneficiaries, Internet, textbooks DCD Field extension report, monitoring and evaluation , reports TANGO CTA, NARI, radio, personal collection, TV programs, Internet, newspapers WTG ECOWAS, national and regional research institutes, newspapers, personal collection, electronic media/website, beneficiaries, Internet NFPG Radio, Newspapers, NARI, Internet GHE CTA, DOSA, beneficiaries, fairs/trade fairs, colleagues, NARI, Internet Women’s International research institutes e.g. ICRISAT, Gender Bureau Development of ECOWAS, International Labour Organization (ILO), AATG Source: Survey Data, January, 2008

39. Although some organizations were aware of the existence and use CTA’s print information resources such as Spore and reference materials, none of the organizations interviewed was aware of CTA’s online information.

3.2.3 Information Products and Services Provided

40. A number of information services and products are provided to stakeholders. These comprise verbal/oral communication by extension staff (NADA), DCD, NGOs to targeted audiences; broadcast media (radio and TV) through ACD production, documentaries from national and international institutions, publications from such as newsletters (SENELAA from ACD), annual reports e.g. the National Agricultural Sample Survey (NASS) and other institutions.

41. Broadcast media (TV & radio) are employed to reach the widest audience. With low Internet literacy and very few organizations having websites, only MISTOWA/GHE relies exclusively on email to disseminate market information. The use of mobile phones to send SMS is limited to personal communications.

42. Publications are also effected through 3 publishers (Educational and Social Enterprises, Fulladu and Macmillan) and some 16 printing presses including the Government Printer (Gambia Printing and Publishing Corporation), Papermate and various other houses including those owned by the printing presses.

3.2.4 Information and Communication Management Capacity

43. Very few of the institutions surveyed have separate sections or divisions exclusively for ICM. In view of this situation, the few staff have to perform a multiplicity of skills including research, management and ICM. In the case of IT a small section usually manned by one or two staff who manage the computers and Internet facilities but most have contracts with the ISP service providers to maintain computers (or LAN) and websites. Not all organisations have a specific budget for ICM and/or IT. Most of the organizations do not have a separate budget allocated for ICM or IT; where it exist, it is minimal and utilized for computer/Internet purchase and maintenance. Consequently, most of the institutions surveyed did not have adequate budgetary allocation for additional staff, updated equipment or software and training. Scrutiny of their budgets indicated that DOSCIT had the highest annual allocation of about Euro (€) 12,500 for office equipment, computer stationery and software (2007 budget allocation). The Women’s Bureau had Euro (€) 2,400 whilst DOP, NARI, The University and Gambia College relied principally on donations from collaborators.

44. In contrast, most of the institutions surveyed have documentation centres/libraries with varying numbers of publications. Whilst the ACD’s collection comprises video cassettes, manuals and flyers on crop production and dissertations by staff for diploma and MSc courses the DOP, NARI, Gambia College, The University of the Gambia and TANGO have printed materials with personnel designated for their management. Budgetary allocations for libraries documentations were reported to be minimal and largely inadequate. Apart from salaries for personnel and maintenance of shelves none of the institutions surveyed reported receiving any annual subscription specific to the libraries/documentation centres. This was the case for DOP, NARI, the University and the Gambia College.

3.3 Interventions Supporting Information and Communication for Agriculture and Rural Development

45. The government as part of the NICI policy aims to bridge the digital divide between the urban and rural areas. There is currently a wide gap in ICT services for users in rural areas as they have less access to fixed telephone lines, computers or Internet. Many interviewees in this survey also noted the limitations of using ICTs to communicate with farmers and communities in rural areas.

46. It could be noted that there have been a number of Government and private sector initiatives to extend ICTs and telecommunication to those “beyond the digital divide” in rural and urban areas through the establishment of cybercafés and telecentres. These public access points have increased ICT and telecommunication penetration in The Gambia.

47. A number of interventions are being planned for ICT enhancement in The Gambia at both national and sectoral levels. These comprise at the national level, the “Silicon Valley dream” to make the Gambia an ICT hub through encouraging the establishment of computer assembly plants in support of the NICI policy. The Government also aspires to implement an e-government strategy in which most administrative processes will be through electronic applications. It is also envisaged that once the Telecommunication Bill is passed greater private sector engagement in TV Broadcasting and widening of applications by mobile and other operators in areas such as GPS and market information will be enhanced.

48. In the agriculture and rural sector planned public ICM/ICT interventions include the establishment and management of websites providing information to the public. One such website: agrigambia.gm is being developed by DOSA. The use of GIS to collect agricultural data is also being developed by the Department of Planning of NADA as part of its annual National Agricultural Sample Survey (NASS). Access to virtual libraries (Internet-linked libraries) is being actively pursued by NARI. A related intervention in this regard, is the African Union E-Network funded by the Indian government. The Gambia has been selected as a pilot country in this project in which Internet links will be established between Indian institutes of higher learning and Gambian institutions such as the UTG. This is expected to facilitate access to educational resources online.

49. At the national level, efforts are being made to better coordinate library/documentation management and improve access to reference materials. These efforts are being spearheaded by GAMLISA, whose aim is to foster interchange of materials among libraries/documentation centres. It is also pursuing efforts towards the establishment of training centres providing courses on library management and records keeping. Recently, the private sector including NGOs have also been active in the provision of library/documentation centres at community level in a bid to improve access to updated information.

4. INSTITUTIONAL NEEDS ANALYSIS (STRENGTHS, MAIN BOTTLENECKS AND SHORTCOMINGS)

50. An analysis of the strengths presented in Table 2 indicate a variety exists among the institutions surveyed ranging from availability of the NICI Policy, availability of library/ documentation centre stocked with some essential agricultural and rural development reference materials, expertise in ICT and availability of basic equipment. Accordingly, DOSCIT has a NICI policy; GRTS has materials produced in video and radio tapes; NARI has reference materials and expertise in library management whilst DOP has materials for an agricultural database.

Table 2: Strengths by Institution in ICM Institutions Strengths Weaknesses

DOSCIT • Availability of NICI Policy and Plan for • Inadequacy and low capacity of implementation; equipment to meet needs of staff • ICT Department with some expertise in ICM; • Inadequate number of staff in • Availability of basic ICT materials ICT department • Inadequate financial resources for equipment and updated software purchase and maintenance GRTS • Availability of materials on rural development; • Limited expertise in ICM • Expertise in rural radio and television • Limited availability of computers broadcasting; with high capacity • Partnerships with international radio • Limited number of radio/TV broadcasters such as Deutchewell Radio, UN packages on agriculture and Radio, RFI rural development NARI • Availability of documentation centre with • Inadequate numbers of materials with 1,500 publications; computers, accessories and • Established partnership with relevant updated software institutions such as FAO, CTA; • Limited reference materials • Availability of resource person in Library • Few staff adequately trained in management ICT DOP • Availability of documentation centre with • Inadequate number and low materials on agriculture and rural development; capacity in ICT • Availability of materials for agriculture/rural • Inadequate capacity and skills in development, information for establishing library management database • Inadequate budgetary provisions for ICT and GIS ACD • Available expertise in video, TV and manual • Inadequate numbers of staff production; availability of video tapes and skilled in ICT resource materials, • Lack adequate capacity in • Experience in agricultural Newsletter production publication Gambia • Availability of library with relevant reference • Lack adequate numbers of high College materials on agriculture and rural development capacity computers and updated software • Inadequate skills in ICT • Low level of expertise in library management • Inadequate access to reference materials

Institutions Strengths Weaknesses

UTG • Availability of some reference materials in • Low level of expertise in library library management • Availability of some ICT skills • Low level of skills in ICT • Availability of some computers including in website establishment and management • Inadequacy of ICT equipment • Low budgetary provision for equipment purchase and maintenance DCD • Expertise and human resource for promoting • Lack of library/documentation rural development centre • Limited know-how and skills in ICT WB • Expertise in ICT and gender; availability of • Inadequacy of ICM facilities partnerships for rural development • Limited expertise in ICM TANGO • Availability of resource centre with materials on • Inadequate financial provisions Rural development, ICT equipment available of for ICT Update and maintenance web browsing • Limited human resources for meeting ICT/ICM needs of NGOs WTG • Availability of library/documentation centre, • Inadequate financial resources existence of partnerships with relevant to purchase equipment and organizations such as FAO updated software • Inadequate human resources( few staff NFPG • Organization with broad membership and • Few staff to cater for need of support in rural areas; expertise in lobbying and large number of illiterate farmers organizing farmers • Inadequate availability of equipment and information formats not suited for farmer’s requirements • Inadequate number of staff skilled in ICM GHE • Expertise in collection and posting of market • Limited number of staff to serve information(price data) through the Internet; needs of large clientele availability of essential equipment for ICT • Information format and channel (Internet) not accessible to large number of farmers and traders CPAC • Available expertise in ICM and a committed • Few staff to cater for need of membership to consumer protection large number of illiterate farmers • Inadequate availability of equipment and information formats not suited for farmer’s requirements • Inadequate number of staff skilled in ICM ASSAT • Available expertise in diverse areas of science • Absence of permanent structure and technology, some expertise in ICM and a and ICT equipment and software committed membership • Lack of permanent staff to man ICT ITAG • Available expertise in ICT, availability of high • Absence of permanent structure capacity computers amongst membership and ICT equipment and software • Lack of permanent staff to man ICT Source: Survey Data, January, 2008

51. An analysis of the responses by institutions presented in Table 2 reveals a number of weaknesses revolving around inadequacy and low capacity of equipment to meet needs of staff, inadequate number of staff in ICT, inadequate financial resources for equipment and software purchase and maintenance, inadequate skills in IT land limited availability of reference materials. As highlighted in the Table 2 all the institutions interviewed experience two or more of the weaknesses.

52. A number of constraints were encountered inhibiting the ability of institutions to effectively manage and communicate their information to beneficiaries. These constraints centre on limited personnel, low skill level of staff and lack of (up-to-date) equipment. As indicated earlier, in many organisations, few staff have to undertake multiple tasks and this overburdens them inhibiting optimal information searching or packaging. The outdated nature and Internet connections (few LAN) culminate in slow connectivity and loss of valuable time.

53. The constraints are very similar with government institutions and farmers’ association most acutely experiencing skills, equipment and personnel limitations. Thus DOSCIT, GRTS, DOP, Gambia College, WB all mention low skills levels and inadequate equipment and financing. The NGO and private sector although better endowed also encounter constraints linked to low level of skills in ICM.

4.1 Information Needs

54. Institutions visited presented a broad range of information needs in the fields of rural development, technical, economic, rural development and training information to enhance effectiveness of interventions and achieve goals and objectives. Table 3 provides details on information needs by the institutions.

Table 3: Information Needs of Institutions Interviewed Institution Information Need Preferred Format DOSCIT Social development issues, Gender, Development funding Newsletters, fact programs/sources, Public/private partnership, Integration sheets, full and utilization of ICT in agriculture documents, CDs, DVDs GRTS Social development issues, Agricultural development TV and radio networks programmes, Newsletters, page summaries, video tapes, CDs, DVDs NARI Farm problems, gender issues, government and Newsletters, fact international organizations, conferencing and meetings, sheets, full development and funding programmes, available documents, page agricultural/development networks summaries, CDs, Technical Information –post-harvest technology, crop DVDs varieties, packaging, patents, integrated pest management, credit and micro-credit, market data, crop insurance, management of Information within the organization, editing reports, participative methodologies

Institution Information Need Preferred Format DOP Rural development, technical information, Economic Newsletters, fact Information, management of information within the sheets, full organization (information/advice on data collection, documents, page storage, analysis and dissemination) summaries, CDs, DVDs ACD Farm problems, gender issues, government/international Newsletters, page regulations, development funds, agricultural development summaries, video networks, post harvest technology, crop varieties and audio tapes, CDs, DVDs Gambia Rural development, technical information, economic Newsletters, fact College information and training needs sheets, full documents, page summaries, CDs, DVDs UTG Rural development, technical and economic information Newsletters, fact sheets, full documents, page summaries, CDs, DVDs DCD Social development, gender issues and development, Newsletters, fact development and funding programs, participatory sheets, full methodology, post harvest technologies, packaging, micro documents, page finance summaries, CDs, DVDs TANGO Social development issues, gender issues, government Newsletters, fact regulations, development and funding programs, sheets, full management of information with the organization documents, page summaries, CDs, DVDs WTG Technical advice, rural development information, training Newsletters, page needs summaries, video and audio tapes, CDs, DVDs NFPG Commodity/producer price, micro finance for the poor Newsletters, fact sheets, full documents, page summaries, CDs, DVDs GHE Farm problems, government and international regulations, Newsletters, fact conferences and meetings, trade fair development and sheets, full funding programs documents, page summaries, CDs, DVDs WB Gender issues, development and funding programs, social Newsletters, fact development issues, participative methodology, sheets, full management of information within the organization documents, page summaries, CDs, DVDs Source: Survey Data, January, 2008

55. Scrutiny of the survey results presented in Table 3 reveal varying information needs among the institutions. Thus while the need is specific and limited to a few areas for some, for others, broader needs have been expressed. Accordingly GRTS, DOSCIT, GHE, NFPG, WTG information needs cover some specific subjects areas in rural

development and few in technical or economic categories. NARI, DOP, ACD, Gambia College and UTG have broader information needs covering more subject areas such as rural development, technical and economic information.

56. In terms of the format of required presented in Table 3 a large similarity exists amongst the institutions. However for institutions specializing in dissemination such as GRTS, ACD and WTG additional formats such as audio and video are required. In the case of research (NARI and DOP) and for higher education (UTG and Gambia College) access to full documents is essential. It should be noted that updating of equipment and their maintenance are key factors for access to the various information formats. In this regard budgetary support and equipment grants are pivotal for sustained access and utilization for the information formats.

4.2 Capacity-building Needs (IC Policies & Strategies, Sensitization, Networking, Skills, Training, Media, ICT, Equipment)

57. While the limitations of ICTs highlighted above inhibit optimal outreach by the institutions, all of them have continued efforts to reach their audiences and beneficiaries. Nonetheless, a number of improvements are necessary. The improvements needed are presented in Table 4 and centre on ICM training, equipment support and financing. Details of specific training and equipment focused on the following areas: desk top publishing for developing and publishing information packages; design and maintenance of websites and web based information; database establishment and management; participatory extension techniques; library/documentation management; training in developing appropriate messages in local languages and developing of TV programmes and radio packs for illiterate local audiences, training on literacy and numeracy skills enhancement.

Table 4: Improvements Needed by Institutions Institutions Improvements Needed DOSCIT ICM training, support for technical and improved salaries and budgeting allowances GRTS Provision of equipment, training, access to information on agriculture and rural development NARI Provision of equipment and training in website development, Information management and access to reference materials DOP Training of staff in ICM, provision of equipment, increased access to reference materials ACD Training in ICM, provision of equipment and financial support Gambia Capacity building/ training in ICM and provision of equipment College UTG Training in ICM, Provision of equipment and financing DCD Training in ICM, provision of capital resources, equipment WB Provision of training in ICM, provision of equipment, provision of facilities for television TANGO Training on ICM, financial support, upgrading resource centre- with literature materials, equipment and trained manpower WTG Updating of equipment NFPG Training in ICM, provision of ICM equipment

Institutions Improvements Needed GHE Capacity building in ICM, provision of more equipment Source: Survey Data, January, 2008

4.3 Feedback on CTA Products and Services

58. There is very limited awareness of of CTA products and services, with the notable exception of Spore and provision of reference materials to the NARI and DOP libraries. Table 5 provides details of CTA products and services availability and needs by institutions interviewed. Some of the key products and services needed include RRRP,, training, co-publishing, equipment support, Spore and ICT Update.

Table 5: CTA Product and Service Availability and Required by Institution Institution CTA PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Current/Past Requested Product /Service service DOSCIT None • Spore and ICT Update GRTS None • Spore and ICT Update • RRRP, training courses on information management NARI Library materials; • Library materials, CTA Partner • Training in scientific writing, QAS • Agricultural research • Spore and ICT Update • Co-publishing with CTA DOP CTA Trainings • Library Materials, Training Courses on Library materials Information Management, • Co-publishing with CTA, • Spore and ICT Update • Equipment support(GIS) ACD Spore • Training courses on information management, • Co-publishing with CTA • RRRP • Spore and ICT Update Gambia College None • Literature materials • Training • Equipment support • Spore and ICT Update UTG None • Library services • Training in information management (library services) • Spore and ICT Update • Co-publishing with CTA • QAS DCD None • Training in Information Management • Spore and ICT Update

WB None • Library materials • Spore and ICT Update

Institution CTA PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Current/Past Requested Product /Service service TANGO None • CTA partner • Training • Literature materials • Websites/virtual libraries • Spore and ICT Update

WTG None • Training in information management • Spore and ICT Update

NFPG None • Equipment support • Library materials • CTA partner • Training in information management GHE None • Training in information management • Equipment support CPAG None • Training in Information Management AASAT None • CTA partner • Spore and ICT Update

ITAG None • Virtual library • Spore and ICT Update

Source: Survey Data, January, 2008

5. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 Conclusions

5.1.1 Information Needs

59. Information gaps exist for all the institutions surveyed due to a lack of adequate awareness of sources, budgetary inadequacies and inaccessible formats. Inadequate staffing and lack of motivation were also mentioned as factors inhibiting optimal utilization of information for efficiency and proficiency on the job. The gaps varied between the institutions with the situation most acute for the governmental agencies (policy, research, academia and the media) than for NGOs, the private sector and farmers’ organizations requiring relatively narrower range of information needs for their operations. It was also revealed that libraries and documentation centres do not generally have sufficient or updated reference materials including Internet-linked libraries for personnel.

60. A number of useful lessons have been learnt including that stakeholders particularly farmers are able to utilize ICT to acquire information and enhance skill levels for improved livelihood. This however requires sensitization/awareness creation, training and initial maintenance support. The broadcast media (radio and TV) can be employed as effective channels to provide market, production and technical information in a timely manner. However the cost of sustaining the system can be high and revenue generating mechanisms have to be introduced for sustainability. Reliability and access to accompanying social and amenities such as electricity and telecommunication are also essential for effective utilization of ICT.

61. It is clear from the current survey and numerous other studies that face-to-face contact and verbal communication with farmers and rural communities is the preferred and most effective means of information exchange in rural areas, with print, electronic and other media of lesser but not negligible importance. Effective extension delivery is critical for accelerated agricultural and rural development. In the Gambia extension information dissemination is inhibited by lack of mobility, few messages and inadequate staff numbers.

62. In the extension delivery system there has been a gradual shift to participatory extension approaches with closer interaction among researchers, extensionists, farmers, input suppliers and other stakeholders to develop locally applicable and innovative solutions to farmers’ problems. Consequently, the Farmer Field School concept is now being introduced by NADA.

63. Information formats and communication channels are generally not tailored to the requirements of the clientele. Given the high level of illiteracy and the wide use of radio, the use of radio and TV as sources of information for a large proportion of the population particularly farmers is critical. However, experience in the sub-region indicate that other ICTs such as the mobile phone and the Internet can play a pivotal role particularly in the rapid dissemination of market information. The category of information needs by the institutions surveyed cover broadly: rural development focusing on social development

issues, farm problems (land tenure), gender and available agricultural information networks. Library services are being provided by institutions in both the public and private sector generally with limited materials. However, efforts are ongoing through GAMLISA aimed at better coordination, enhanced capacity in library management to users through exchange and sharing of materials.

Technical Information 64. Technical Information needs centre on post-harvest loss reduction technologies, transportation, integrated pest management, waste management and specific areas including (varieties, input management, soil fertility and water control, animal heath and nutrition, and appropriate mechanization).

Economic information 65. Specific economic information needs centre on market-related data (prices, commodity profiles for exporters, volumes and requirements), crop insurance systems etc. availability of this information will enhance productivity and facilitate marketing of farmers produce.

66. These information needs can be addressed through enhanced access to the mass media and in formats as well as channels such as the radio, TV, bulletins, flyers but also through the Internet, libraries, documentation centres and Internet-linked libraries.

5.1.2 Capacity Building Needs

67. The staffing and skill levels were reported to be generally low for the institutions surveyed. Thus upgrading skill levels will increase efficiency, effectiveness and culminate in the realization of the goals of the organizations. Most of the institutions have libraries/documentation centres although most are inadequately manned and not stocked with updated reference materials and formats of materials adapted to local requirements. The survey revealed that only few have ICM units and even fewer have ICM strategies which could contribute to better articulation of needs and facilitate funding from potential donors for equipment, training and material support. In essence the capacity of most of the institutions is inhibited by inadequate equipment and few staff with limited skills in ICM.

68. In view of the above, Increasing ICM skills of personnel, providing equipment support, developing strategies and partnerships with CTA and other collaborators will enhance output and efficiently. Key areas include:

Equipment 69. There is a lack of adequate updated equipment and software due to low budgetary allocations especially to the governmental institutions has hampered ability to acquire and maintain computers and peripherals, other equipment and continued access to websites used for obtaining relevant information.

5.1.3 Overview of CTA Products and Services

70. Awareness and benefit of CTA products and services has been limited to only a few institutions in The Gambia and confined to the Spore Magazine and the receipt of publications. Given the usefulness and relevance of CTA products and services notably

RRRP, training, co-publishing, equipment support and Spore and ICT Update, greater awareness needs to be created and access enhanced.

5.1.4 Potential Strategic Partners

71. In view of the information and capacity building needs of the institutions studied and given the pivotal role of information for agricultural production and productivity, linkage with internal and external agencies is both relevant and critical. In this regard, partnership with CTA is essential for most of the institutions surveyed. Key amongst these are NARI, DOP, TANGO, AASAT, UTG and NFPG.

5.2 Recommendations

5.2.1 Information Needs

72. Undertake concerted efforts at national and regional levels (West Africa) to develop a network of users and producers of agriculture and rural development information through exchange visits, study tours and joint training courses. This will engender greater awareness, sharing and access to each others information but also coordination amongst the stakeholders.

73. Given the limited awareness of CTA products and services in The Gambia and their consequent low utilization, organize an awareness forum at national level to exhibit and popularize them. This will provide an opportunity for most of the institutions in agriculture and rural development to meet their information requirements.

74. Avail institutions involved in the dissemination of information to farmers and rural dwellers the opportunity to improve on appropriate techniques of information formatting and utilization to make them respond to the requirements of stakeholders. In this regard support for availability of timely and appropriate market information to producers and traders, policy makers and researchers on horticulture, cereals, fish and livestock will be essential.

75. Provide support to GAMLISA and libraries/documentation centres to increase their stock of reference materials, websites and linkage to Internet-linked libraries and information sources.

5.2.2 Capacity Building Needs

76. Make concerted efforts through CTA support to strengthen the capacity of researchers, extension agents and development workers in government, NGO and private sector services to ensure their orientation towards meeting the information needs of their clientele.

77. Undertake capacity building on strategy development to enable institutions to develop partnerships and access resources to meet their organizational goals. Enhanced capacity in strategy development will contribute towards resolving constraints linked to inadequate budgetary availability.

78. Support to the provision of equipment (computers, GIS) and updated soft ware to ensure sustainable access to modern ICTs by institutions involved in ICM for agriculture and rural development.

79. CTA support for participation by relevant institutions to training courses particularly scientific writing, information management (library management, data management, development of market information systems, radio and video production, website development and maintenance amongst others.

80. In addition to external support from CTA and other relevant organizations, the local institutions are urged to provide basic IT training to their staff and meet basic computer stationery requirements.

5.2.3. CTA Products and Services

81. Engender greater awareness of CTA Products and Services in The Gambia through workshops, seminars; provide capacity building through training; enhance access to library materials, QAS, Spore, ICT Update and equipment support.

5.2.4. Potential Strategic Partner Institutions

82. Develop strategic partnership with organizations particularly NARI, DOP, TANGO, AASAT, UTG, NFPG. Specific areas requiring CTA partnerships are training, support for Publications (library materials), access to websites, QAS and for equipment support. Proposed areas of partnership by institution are presented below:

¾ Enhance radio and TV outreach through GRTS and local FM radios by the Provision of RRRP, Training in ICM including developing materials of appropriate format and provision of ICT equipment.

¾ Enhance outreach of agricultural and rural development messages through partnership with ACD by Training in ICM including the development of appropriate extension messages/materials and equipment support

¾ Enhance capacity of DOP through provision of GIS equipment and training support, Website establishment and maintenance, training in Information management (library/Documentation management and database establishment and management).

¾ Collaboration with NARI in Q and Answer Sessions, Website establishment and maintenance, training in information management (library/documentation management, database establishment and management) and publications from CTA.

¾ Enhanced capacity of DCD through ICM Training, Literature materials on rural development and ICT equipment support

¾ Enhanced capacity of the Women’s Bureau in ICM Training, publications from CTA (literature materials on agricultural and rural development) and ICT equipment support.

¾ Assistance to the University of the Gambia through training in information management ( library/documentation management), publications from CTA (literature materials on agricultural and rural development) and ICT equipment support.

¾ Enhance capacity of TANGO through provision of publications from CTA (literature materials on agricultural and rural development), ICT equipment support and Website development and maintenance.

¾ Further enhance capacity of WTG through training on information management ( ICM management) and CTA Magazine- Spore and ICT Update

6. PROPOSED CTA INTERVENTION STRATEGY AND ACTION PLAN

6.1 Proposed Intervention Strategy

83. From the foregoing conclusions and recommendations and in order to improve access, availability and delivery of information and services including CTA products and services to beneficiaries in The Gambia, the following CTA Intervention strategy is being proposed comprising 7 activities detailed below:

1. Increase awareness of CTA operations, products and services within agricultural and rural development sector in The Gambia (all sub-sectors and organizations). This should be organized by the CTA.

2. Establishment of information users/producers network to increase information exchange and knowledge sharing between agricultural and rural development organizations in-country and in the West Africa sub-region. CTA could coordinate this with ACD and DOP.

3. Enhance capacity of through the provision of training Courses in ICM For agriculture and rural development institutions to meet their needs. Institutions could be invited to CTA and other training courses on ICM.

4. Provision of ICT (equipment and software) support to selected institutions. This could be coordinated with other donors with TANGO coordinating this intervention for NGOs and farmer organizations while DOSCIT coordinates for governmental institutions.

5. Provide basic IT training for staff in agriculture and rural sector institutions. This could be sourced and funded by the local institutions themselves.

6. Establishment of partnership between CTA and selected Gambian institutions. This will enhance information and capacity building for farmers and other rural dwellers and the participating local institutions.

7. Increase Access to updated Information for producers, researchers, development workers and for decision-makers in agriculture and rural development. This can be effected through QAS, publications and links to other CTA information sources.

84. The action plan presents for each activity: the objective, the expected results, the responsible party and the duration. The durations proposed for the activities range from one to five years. Details of the plan are presented in the action plan below.

6.2 Action Plan for CTA Intervention Strategy Activity Objective Expected Responsibility Duration Results Increase Enhance access Greater access CTA 1 year awareness of to CTA and utilization CTA Products Information of CTA and Services in sources by products and The Gambia institutions services involved in agriculture and Greater rural development exposure and awareness of CTA operations, products and services Establishment of Create a forum Network CTA, National 2 years information for interaction established Information users/producers amongst amongst users user/producer nets network agricultural and producers information of agricultural producers and information in users West Africa Provision of Upgrade the skill Capacity of CTA, agriculture and 5 years Training Courses level of staff in Staff in ICM rural development in ICM agriculture and enhanced institutions For Agriculture rural development and rural institutions in ICM Improved development information and institutions services available to stakeholders in the agriculture an rural development sector Provision of Provide Greater access CTA, selected 5 years ICT(equipment equipment by staff to Institutions and other and software) (computers and equipment for donors support to accessories, GIS) information selected to enable them management Institutions carry out information Improved processing and efficiency in management information tasks management Basic IT Training Enhance the IT Staff capacity in Local institutions 5 years for Staff in capacity of staff basic IT Agriculture and sustained Rural Sector Institutions

Activity Objective Expected Responsibility Duration Results Establishment of Forge partnership Greater CTA, selected 5 years Partnership to ensure interaction Institutions between CTA accelerated and between CTA and Selected effective and selected Gambian agriculture and institutions for institutions rural development enhanced rural in rural and peri- welfare urban Gambia Increase Access Increase access Greater access CTA, Selected 5years to updated to updated to reference Institutions Information for materials in materials in producers, appropriate agriculture and researchers, formats for rural development stakeholders in development in workers and for agriculture and appropriate decision-makers rural development formats through in agriculture and libraries, the rural web, radio and development TV

ANNEXES

ANNEX 1. TERMS OF REFERENCE

1. Introduction The Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA) was established in 1983 under the Lomé Convention between the ACP (African, Caribbean and Pacific) Group of States and the European Union Member States. Since 2000, it has operated within the framework of the ACP-EC Cotonou Agreement.

CTA’s tasks are to develop and provide services that improve access to information for agricultural and rural development, and to strengthen the capacity of ACP countries to produce, acquire, exchange and utilise information in this area. CTA’s programmes are organised around three principal activities: providing an increasing range and quantity of information products and services and enhancing awareness of relevant information sources; supporting the integrated use of appropriate communication channels and intensifying contacts and information exchange (particularly intra-ACP); and developing ACP capacity to generate and manage agricultural information and to formulate information and communication management (ICM) strategies, including those relevant to science and technology. These activities take account of methodological developments in cross-cutting issues (gender, youth, information & communication technologies – ICTs, and social capital), findings from impact assessments and evaluations of ongoing programmes as well as priority information themes for ACP agriculture .

CTA’s activities are currently distributed among three operational programme areas / departments:

Information Products and Services; Communication Channels and Services; Information and Communication Management Skills and Systems.

These operational departments are supported by Planning Corporate Services (P&CS) which is charged with the methodological underpinning of their work and monitoring the ACP environment in order to identify emerging issues and trends and make proposals for their translation into programmes and activities. This current exercise, therefore, falls within the mandate of P&CS.

2. Background Since 2003, CTA has been systematically conducting needs assessment studies across the Pacific, Caribbean and Africa regions – the regions it has been mandated to serve. These studies have been in direct response to calls for CTA, in various evaluations of its products, services and programmes, to be more strategic in its choice regarding the setting of its own agenda and reacting to demand. In putting together its Strategic Plan and Framework for Action 2001 – 2005, CTA took a pragmatic view and opted to develop a strategy combining the benefits of both approaches, whereby the need to address the expressed demands of its stakeholders and the potential long-term advantages of developing programmes that address future needs were combined.

The Centre’s new strategic plan covering the 2007 – 2010 period places emphasis on: improving CTA’s efficiency and increasing the Centre’s outreach by addressing the

major bottleneck of difficult or insufficient access to information in ACP countries; (ii) honing CTA’s profile and further defining the niche where the Centre has a comparative advantage. Consequently, reaching more beneficiaries and further strengthening CTA’s partnership networks is key as well as the thrust to make ICTs and ICM strategies more widely available.

3. Main issues CTA works primarily through intermediary public and private partners (research centres, extension services, libraries, NGOs, farmers’ organisations, regional organisations and networks, …) to promote agriculture and rural development. Under the new strategic plan, the organisations targeted will be extended to include print media, editors, radio, TV and journalist networks in order to further maximise outreach. Through these partnerships, CTA hopes to increase the number of ACP organisations capable of accessing and combining modern and conventional ICTs, generating and managing information and developing their own ICM strategies. The identification of appropriate partners is therefore of primordial importance, whilst bearing in mind issues such as geographical coverage, decentralisation, regionalisation, thematic orientation and transparent and objective criteria and procedures for partner selection.

4. Overall Objective Collaboration strategies with ACP agricultural organisations and relevance of CTA’s support to African ACP countries improved.

5. Scope of the study The study will focus on:

The study should assist CTA to improve and better target interventions and activities aimed at potential partners and beneficiaries (including women, youth, private sector and civil society organisations) to have a more informed picture of their needs and aid in the elaboration of a strategy and framework of action. The study should also highlight where there are specific needs for CTA’s products and services thereby enabling improvement in the delivery of the same.

6. Expected Results The expected results of the study are as follow:

status of infrastructure, information services and ICM capacity of institutions involved in agriculture and rural development described and analysed;

information and capacity building needs in the area of ICM identified for key institutions and potential CTA partners involved in agriculture and rural development; baseline data on the status of ICM and ICT in agriculture and rural development compiled for monitoring purposes and improved outreach.

The study should therefore also provide updated country profiles on the status agricultural information services, the status of ICM/T in the country, which will allow CTA to make informed decisions re type and mode of intervention as well as partner selection. This will be summarised in one (1) main report per country not exceeding 30 pages excluding annexes (cf. section 8 below).

7. Methodology The consultant will use a combination of qualitative and quantitative rapid appraisal methods including:

the desk review of available literature and information sources including the findings of programme evaluations; the conduct of face-to-face interviews with relevant stakeholders / concerned parties; the limited use of questionnaires.

The rapid appraisal approach will allow a general overview of the key issues and company / organisational profiles on a per country basis and may give rise to more in- depth studies as and when needed in the future.

8. Reporting The country reports will not exceed 30 pages (excluding annexes) and is broken down as follows:

Main report

Acknowledgements List of Acronyms Executive summary 1. Introduction 2. Country profile 2.1 Brief description of agriculture and recent developments in the sector: 2.1.1 Agriculture 2.1.2 Fisheries 2.1.3 Forestry 2.1.4 Pastorialism / Livestock (where applicable) 2.2 Brief description of the status of ICT infrastructure and recent developments in the sector 3. Status of information and communication for agriculture and rural development

3.1 Institutional, regulatory and policy framework Status of national and/or other sectoral policies on information and communication for agriculture and rural development; definition of main strategic

focus and principal characteristics; opportunities and threats posed by the political, institutional and regulatory environment 3.2 Operational aspects 3.2.1 Description of agricultural information and services (main actors in the area of information and communication for agriculture and rural development) 3.2.2 Information products and services provided 3.2.3 Information and communication management capacity 3.3 Interventions supporting information and communication for agriculture and rural development Examine the main interventions undertaken, planned or foreseen by the State, donor agencies, private sector (e.g. telecommunications sector) to respond to identified needs paying particular attention to the priorities and means mobilised. Lessons learnt should also be addressed in this section 3.4. Needs analysis (Main bottlenecks and shortcomings) 3.4.1 Information needs 3.4.2 Capacity building needs (IC policies & strategies, sensitisation, networking, skills, training, media, ICT, equipment) 4. Conclusions and recommendations 4.1 Conclusions 4.1.1 Information Needs 4.1.2 Capacity Building Needs 4.1.3 Potential Strategic Partners 4.2 Recommendations 4.2.1 Capacity Building Needs 4.2.2 Information Needs 4.2.3. Potential Strategic Partner Institutions 5. Proposed CTA Intervention Strategy and Action Plan From the above analysis, establish a link between the needs which are not currently met or for which complementary actions are needed and CTA’s supply (products and services). This should lead to an overall and coherent strategy for CTA and an action plan in priorities are identified and an implementation schedule defined.

Annexes 1. Terms of reference 2. Country profile 2.1 General agricultural profile (from available documentation) 2.1.1 Size of agricultural population (male / female / youth) 2.1.2 Farmed land, forests, fishing areas 2.1.3 Agricultural systems 2.1.4 Agriculture in the economy (percentage GDP) 2.1.5 Main agricultural produce and secondary products 2.1.6 Main export markets 2.1.7 Trade agreements that include agriculture 2.1.8 Sectoral policy related to agriculture, fisheries and forests 2.2 Socio-economic profile (from available documentation) 2.2.1 Total active population, demographic breakdown 2.2.2 Literacy level and languages 2.2.3 Access to services (health, schools, electricity) 2.2.4 Rural urban drift

2.3 Media and telecommunications (update / check) 2.3.1 Newspapers, periodicals, magazines, radio stations, television channels, 2.3.2 Telecommunication services (fixed, mobile, etc.) 2.3.3 Computers and Internet access 3. Profile of institutions 3.1 List of all main institutions involved in agriculture and rural development activities, including private sector and civil society organisations, with name, contact details, type and role of institution 3.2 Select list of key institutions involved in agriculture and rural development, with extensive data and information on the institution, the problems faced and why it is considered a key actor 4. List of institutions / persons interviewed (to include full contact details)

5. Bibliography

9. Timing The draft final report is to be submitted within three months after contract signature by CTA; the final report is due two weeks after receipt of comments from CTA.

10. Expertise needed The national consultant should have a university degree or equivalent by experience. In addition, he/she should have at least 10 years experience in field of agriculture, rural development or social / economic sciences. He/she must have in-depth knowledge of the agricultural sector in his/her country and be able to identify key players and institutions / organisations active in this area. Some knowledge of information sciences would be an added advantage. The ability to communicate and write clearly in English is essential, while knowledge of at least one of the local languages for communication / interview purposes is an added advantage.

In addition to the skills above, the regional coordinator is expected to be fluent in English, have some knowledge of the 9 countries forming the object of this study, have demonstrated experience in coordinating studies with several consultants and in producing synthesis reports.

The overall coordination of the exercise will be carried out by Ms Christine Webster, Deputy Head, Planning and Corporate Services CTA.

11. Implementation schedule (CTA) Preparation/Finalisation of ToR; Identification/ short-listing of (potential) consultants; Call for offers: January – April 2007; Selection of consultants & contractual arrangements: May/June 2007 Briefing: July 2007 Start date of contract: June/July 2007 Contract implementation period: June 2007 – March 2008 End date of contract: March 2008.

12. Key documents to be made available to consultants Documents include: Cotonou Framework Agreement Executive Summaries of previous evaluation reports including ITAD, OPM, etc. CTA’s Strategic Plan (2007-2010) Annual Reports Examples of reports of previous needs assessment studies Documents on products & services provided by CTA

13. Definition of roles and responsibilities

Regional Coordinator Respect the timeframe regarding submission of reports and deadlines Help identify/vet country consultants Attend pre-briefing and briefing meetings Review the terms of reference Finalise questionnaires1 and methodological approach after due consultation with CTA Team Finalise the briefing notes and guidelines2 for local consultants to ensure accurate and consistent application of the agreed methodology in data collection Answer queries (technical & otherwise) of local consultants During the studies, monitor and provide technical assistance/information to the local consultants Review preliminary country reports and findings and send comments back to local consultants Send edited draft final country reports to CTA for feedback Coordinate and ensure consistency of country reports Prepare the overall report taking into account the findings and recommendations of all the country reports (table of contents to be agreed).

Local Consultants Respect the timeframe regarding submission of reports and deadlines Attend briefing meeting Familiarise themselves with background documents received from CTA; including the Terms of Reference Undertake desk study and prepare country profile, list of institutions involved in agriculture as well as preliminary list of select institutions. Undertake field visits in the country specified in the contract Conduct interviews and gather information in the country specified in the contract Draft preliminary country reports and send to Regional Coordinator for initial comments Based on comments received from Regional Coordinator, revise country reports and send draft final report to CTA within the specified timeframe Finalise country reports based on comments and observations received from CTA and send final report back to CTA

Role of CTA

1 The documents used in previous needs assessment studies are available and will need some slight modifications. 2 See footnote above.

Draw up initial Terms of Reference and prepare relevant background documents Appoint the Regional Coordinator and the ACP Local Consultants Prepare and attend briefing meeting of consultants Invite the Regional Coordinator and Local Consultants for Briefing Meeting Provide input to the Regional Coordinator with regard to fine-tuning terms of reference, questionnaires, interview guide and reporting guidelines for the consultants Provide relevant background documents to the Local Consultants & Regional Coordinator Elaborate budget and discuss contractual obligations with the Team of consultants & Regional Coordinator Liaise with Regional Coordinator throughout the study Pay invoices for services rendered in a timely manner on condition that all payment conditions are fulfilled Overall responsibility for the supervision and implementation of the studies Bear the agreed costs of expenditure in respect of the study (economy class return tickets, hotel accommodation and subsistence allowances during briefing meeting, or during agreed and specified field visits) Provide feedback and comments on draft country reports to the Local Consultants Give feedback to the Regional Coordinator on the Overview Report.

------

ANNEX 2. COUNTRY PROFILE - (THE GAMBIA)

2.1 General Agriculture Profile

The Gambia is situated on the West Coast of Africa lying between latitudes 13 and 14 degrees North, consisting of a narrow strip of land within the valleys of the Gambia River stretching some 400 kilometres East to West and varies in width of about 50 km near the mouth of the river to about 24 km further inland. It forms an enclave in the Republic of Senegal except for a short seaboard on the Atlantic Coastline. The Gambia is divided administratively into 6 agricultural regions. It has a total land surface area of 11,000 km2. The topography is flat particularly near the sea and nowhere does it rise more than 90 m above sea level. This flat topography results in the tidal effects of the river being felt as far as 300 km upstream. In the lower reaches of the river large areas are under tidal swamps. Beyond these however, the river banks are steep and require pump uplift for irrigation.

Climate is a major factor in agricultural production and is characterized by a distinct dry and wet season. The wet season is of shorter duration (4-5 months) from June to October with a much longer dry season (7-8 months) from November to May. Rainfall is the most important determining factor in Gambian agriculture and is mono-modal averaging 850 to 1,100 mm annually with an observed declining trend over the last 3 decades. The Gambia can be divided into 3 agro-ecological zones according to rainfall data:

1. the Sudano-Sahelian or Riverine covering a greater part of the country and comprising 75% of the farming population and therefore constituting the zone where most of the agricultural activities take place;

2. the Sahel Savana or semi arid zone covering part of Central River Region (North) and comprising some 147,684 ha of which only 44 percent is cultivated and principally cultivated to early maturing cereals (early millet, maize, findo etc); and

3. Guinea Savannah zone or humid zone is located around the coast line and covers part of the Western and North Bank Divisions. This covers 179,790 ha about 66 percent of which is cultivable and rainfall is moderate to high with late cereals (late millet, sorghum and upland rice) predominating.

Soils in The Gambia can be broadly categorized into upland and lowland. Upland soils are generally alluvial, fine textured, free draining loamy sand or sandy loam with low organic matter, low cation exchange capacity and low fertility. Lowland soils on the other hand are colluvial, heavily textured silty-clay or clay sub-soils, poorly drained, high in organic matter, high base saturation and generally fertile. However, reduced fallow period have resulted in decrease in soil fertility.

The sector is characterized by subsistence rainfed crop production, traditional livestock rearing, semi-commercial groundnut and horticultural production and a large artisanal fisheries subsector. The major agriculural enterprises are field crops comprising groundnuts, cotton, coarse grains (maize, millet and sorghum), rice and sesame; horticultural crops; livestock mainly poultry, cattle and small ruminants and, fisheries

both artisanal and industrial. Strongly interlinked with these are the water resources, wildlife and forest resource sub-sectors.

2.1.1 Size of the Agricultural Population

Table 1 indicates data on the farming population, for the period 1992 to 2004. It indicates an increase in the numbers of farmers, both male and female over the period. The farming population in 2004 is 903,508 with 448,592 male and 454,916 females. Generally there are more female than females in the farming population. Given the female dominance in numerical terms, and given the differential access to productive resources (inputs, credit, information and farm implements), a review of both the policy and the institutional mechanisms need to be undertaken if agricultural production and productivity is to be optimized.

Table 1: Evolution of the Farming Population by Gender from 1992 to 2004 Year Male Female Total 1992 238,533 279,297 517,830 1993 283,528 278,503 562,031 1994 250,031 272,960 522,991 1995 295,317 279,432 574,749 1996 312,605 313,930 626,535 1997 355,178 322,269 687,447 1998 324,470 338,130 667,610 1999 327,387 333,733 661,120 2000 322,347 326,517 648,564 2001 368,582 365,839 734,721 2002 373,861 385,155 759,016 2003 441,479 439,668 881,146 2004 448,592 454,916 903,508 Source: NASS, Department of Planning, DOSA,2005

2.1.2 Farmed Land, Forest and Fishing

Out of a total cultivable land of 558,000 ha., some 250,000 ha. are cultivated annually as presented in the table below. The largest area to a single crop is allocated to groundnuts, which occupies almost 45% of the cultivated area mainly in upland fields under rainfed conditions. An average of 120,000 ha. of upland are also annualy allocated to coarse grains comprisig early millet, late millet, maize and sorhum.. The main staple crop, rice occupies an average of about 15,000 ha. of lowland farms under rainfed and improved technologies. Table 2 provides details of cultivated area of major crops from 1991/92 to 2005/06.

Table 2: Area of Major Crops (in 000 ha ) 1991/92-2005/06 Year Groundnuts Early Late Maize Sorghum Paddy Total crop Millet Millet 1991/92 81.85 48.9411.44 19.84 13.14 17.32 178.22 1992/93 66.98 36.6612.55 15.55 14.29 12.66 158.68 1993/94 65.00 41.8013.80 16.13 9.63 10.38 157.10 1994/95 79.68 47.2711.50 12.703 9.35 14.35 175.20 1995/96 78.823 43.46413.612 12.93 14.885 16.37 179.86 1996/97 68.08 45.3114.33 10.41 13.59 19.08 170.76 1997/98 73.332 64.5215.30 9.85 14.65 15.574 170.80 1998/99 75.26 57.8815.42 11.71 14.24 19.61 193.10 1999/00 112.2 65.8110.42 14.78 18.50 15.70 238.27 2000/01 124.85 74.1016.27 14.84 24.35 16.70 271.89 2001/02 138.88 81.2716.09 17.20 28.17 18.20 297.90 2002/03 105.61 86.5210.46 18.35 18.34 12.05 251.33 2003/04 107.90 95.5 14.4 24.7 21.00 17.7 263.5 2004/05 116.60 108.2 15.0 26.1 24.2 16.6 311.0 2005/06 137.28 109.8817.45 22.95 27.58 17.81 336.61 Source: National Agricultural Sample Survey/Department of Planning,2006

Fisheries The Gambia is endowed with abundant marine and riverine fish and consists of a continental shelf of 3,855 square kilometres, and a 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zone. The continental shelf in the east Central Atlantic Ocean is a rich fishing zone with a range of pelagic and demersal fish as well as Crustacean. Estimates from Surveys highlight that demersal stocks are heavily fished with sustainable limits being approached; the pelagic resources are however under- exploited. Fisheries constitute an important natural resource and provider of cheap protein for a significant proportion of the population. It is estimated that the Maximum Sustainable Yield from the Gambia’s continental shelf and estuarine area is 80,000 MT per year, whilst current catches are put at 30,000-40,000 Mt. The observation also indicates that high valued demersal species are under threat from exploitation.

Forestry The Gambia’s forest is predominantly of savannah woodland with the density of the cover varying according to location. The moist western part of the country is covered with Guinea savannah vegetation whilst the drier eastern part is dominated by sudan vegetation. The forest area can be classified into high mangrove, gallery forest, closed and open woodland, shrubs and gmelina plantation. Table 3 presents data on the area allocated to the various typologies of vegetation and changes in forest cover respectively. Because of concerted efforts the rapid decline in forest cover has now stabilized, though the current trend in forest cover is one of changing density and composition of the species. Table 4 provides details on changes in forest area in The Gambia from 1972-1999.

Table 3: Major Vegetation types of TheGambia Typology Area (ha) Percentage Tree and Shrub Savannah 348,028 33.4 Upland agricultural crops 275,088 26.4 Uncultivated swamps 81,276 7.8 Cultivated Swamps 33, 344 3.2 Fallow or bush 102,116 9.6 Closed Cannopy Woodland 83,360 8.0 Mangrove 66,688 6.4 Source: National Action Program on Desertification Convention – Gambia, 2003

Table 4: Change in forest area in The Gambia (ha.) Year 1972 1980 1988 1993 1999 Abs. change (ha) 333,200 108,700 6,850 3,425 1,027 Percentage 33% 6.3% 5% 3% change Change (ha) -224,500 -4,020 -3,325 -2,398 Sources: Ridder (1991), Danso (1998) and Sillah’s (1999)

2.1.3 Agricultural Systems

Agricultural activities in the Gambia are dominated by small-scale, rain-fed food crop production mainly for subsistence (sorghum, millet, maize and rice), semi commercial groundnut and horticultural production, traditional livestock rearing and artisanal fisheries production practices. Agricultural output is generated by about 74, 000 farm households.

Overall, crop production and systems are characterized by rainfall dependent, low investment small-scale, family oriented production units. Around 85 percent of the households cultivate less than 1.5 hectare. Average crop yield are rather low, with e.g. 1, 000 kg/ha for groundnuts and early millet, about 1 3000 kg/ha for maize and 1,100 kg/ha and 1 600 kg/ha for upland and swamp rice respectively. Only a limited area is put mainly under irrigated rice (tidal and pump confined to the Central River Region and horticultural production using underground water resources. Mechanized farming is relatively negligible and far between, and mostly public sector owned or promoted. Since 1999, the Government has intervened by providing tractors for cultivation nationwide. The horticultural sub-sector also has the involvement of commercial farms which are market oriented, and directed at exports.

Livestock production practices are largely traditional with low input and extensive management systems. This is particularly the case for large ruminants comprising cattle and for small ruminants and village poultry. However a few livestock enterprises managed under semi intensive and intensive livestock production systems are emerging in the urban and peri-urban areas to satisfy the relatively high consumer demand.

2.1.4 Agriculture in the Economy The Gambia is predominantly an agrarian economy with agriculture and natural resources sector, the engine of economic development and playing a pivotal role in the economy. It provides livelihoods for about 70% of the population, employs about 52

percent of the workforce and contributes between 22% and 29% annually to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as indicated from 2001 to 2005 in Table 5 below.

Table 5: Contribution of Sectors to GDP Sector 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Agriculture 28 29 22 26 27 28 Industry 39 39 32 36 37 41 Services 53 53 61 57 56 59 GDP at factor cost 638 687 712 748 786 820 D Million Real GDP Growth Rate 8.02 7.65 2.18 4.48 5.17 5.00 Source: National Accounts, Central Statistics Department, 2004

2.1.5 Main Agricultural Produce and Secondary Products

The main agricultural produce comprise crops, livestok and fish. The principal crops cultivated in The Gambia comprise grouundnuts and cereals (early millet, late millet, maize, sorghum and rice). Table 6 presents the production of the crops and shows fluctuating amongst the years, with the level of production varying amongst crops. The most significant and consistent increase has been registered for the coarse grains (maize, millets, sorghum), with early millet constituting the largest increase for a single crop. In contrast, swamp rice production has declined during the period. Other secondary crops include sesame and the root and tubers.

Table 6: Production of Major Crops (‘000s MT) 1992/93-2005/06 Year Groundnuts Early Late Maize Sorghum Paddy Total crop Millet Millet 1992/93 54.87 36.0210.24 18.27 12.26 19.41 173.7 1993/94 76.72 43.668.51 23.78 8.97 12.05 173.69 1994/95 80.80 44.098.75 13.31 8.90 20.27 173.7 1995/96 75.18 43.4410.58 13.63 11.87 18.95 175.24 1996/97 45.82 49.5011.99 10.02 13.72 18.19 149.20 1997/98 78.10 54.3711.72 8.47 12.93 13.05 178.60 1998/99 73.46 55.608.07 13.01 9.87 26.64 179.90 1999/00 122.86 72.62 8.34 20.42 17.97 31.65 274.01 2000/01 138.03 78.4716.11 21.99 24.88 34.08 313.70 2001/02 151.07 89.0215.95 28.99 33.42 19.20 351.00 2002/03 71.53 77.347.28 18.58 15.21 20.33 212.90 2003/04 92.94 107.1413.20 30.13 33.35 31.22 277.90 2004/05 135.68 115.9816.52 29.21 29.00 34.30 349.0 2005/06 140.66 109.1217.08 27.70 28.46 18.14 356.21 Source: National Agricultural Sample Survey/Department of Planning, 2007

Livestock Production Livestock comprises cattle, small ruminants, various species of poultry, pigs and equines. They constitute important sources of food, income, manure and farm power. Table 7 presents data on the trends in the livestock population from 1975 to 2006 and shows a generally increasing population for cattle and for small ruminants whilst that of

pigs and chicken fluctuate. According to the data, the cattle population averages around 300,000; 140-150,000 sheep and 200,000-230,000 goats; 13,000 pigs; and, 700,000 chicken. Despite the large number of cattle off-take remains low due to holding of stocks as reserves of wealth by owners. Per capita meat consumption is estimated at 8 kg per annum. Large volumes of meat, eggs and milk are annually imported to meet consumption requirements. Due to the low input management systems and poor husbandry practices, productivity and output have been generally low in the traditional free-range extensive systems. In the emerging modern sector semi-intensive management systems are predominant with increasing utilization of composite animal feed and concentrates.

Table 7: Livestock Population from 1975-2006 (‘000’ heads). Year Cattle Sheep Goats Pigs Chicken 1992 343 159 185 14 673 1993 346 151 180 14 740 1994 348 144 174 16 Na 1995 350 136 169 16 Na 1996 353 130 164 16 521 1997 356 123 159 16 539 1998 359 117 154 16 513 1999 361 111 150 14 582 2000 364 106 145 14 630 2001 323 129 228 14 586 2002 327 146 262 16 591 2003 396 203 297 16 599 2004 408 209 287 16 682 2005 420 215 296 16 652 2006 433 221 305 16 417 Source: National Agricultural Sample Survey (DOP/DOSA),2007

Fisheries Fish constitutes a cheap source of animal protein for a significant proportion of the population, according to a recent survey, 40% of the protein in domestic diet is derived from fish (UNDP 1999). The Data on fish catches from 1992 to 2004 by artisanal and industrial fisheries subsectors are presented in Table 8 and indicate dwindling catches from the industrial sector whilst those of the artisanal sector show an increasing trend. High post-harvest losses, lack of credit, low skill levels and lack of infrastructure for landing constitute key constraints encountered in the sector.

Table 8: Marine Fish Production in Metric Tonnes (1992-2004) Year Industrial Artisanal 1992 6,059.50 14,034.52 1993 7,736.30 17,559.75 1994 7, 751.6019,916.73 1995 6,937.10 20,799.19 1996 8,371.69 30,509.81 1997 7,987.95 30,242.94 1998 7,011.67 26,533.48 1999 10,249.30 29,743.20 2000 9,236.60 26,867.00

Year Industrial Artisanal 2001 11,198.00 32,016.00 2002 12,160.00 32,336.00 2003 11,005.00 34,365.00 2004 8,375.00 29,316.98 2005 4625.25 30,169.00 2006 2829.52 32,976.00 Source: Fisheries Department,2007

2.1.6 Main Export markets

Given the export orientation of the National Vision, the main objective of the trade policy is increase in the flow of exports and imports. The main export items from The Gambia are groundnut and groundnut products (decorticated, oil, cake), cotton, shrimp and lobsters, fish and fish products, hide and skin and horticulture. Table 9 presents export values indicating that groundnut and groundnut derivatives dominate exports with fluctuations. Table 9 shows 1998 as recoding the highest export values of exports, with the lowest recorded for 2001.

Table 9 Exports of Agricultural Commodities from 1992 to 2006 CIF Value (D 000) Year Decorticated Groundnut G/nut Cotton Shrimp& Fish& Hide Horticulture Groundnuts Oil Cake Seed/lint Lobsters Fish & Products Skin 1992 12,935 - - 228 23146 3423 30,000 2545 1993 103,306 - - 228 23,146 3,428 765 2,744 1994 ------1995 95,339 - 3,390 - 24,026 856 - 1996 89,000 - - 11,200 - 27,200 800 15,500 1998 139,900 - - 6,700 - 33,500 1,400 25,900 1999 49,000 - - 2,100 - 36,600 900 19,200 2000 94,498 2,228 - 1,047 16,894 42,665 1,365 13,803 2001 7,160 33,418 8,370 1,383 10,905 20,963 1,581 15,271 2002 43,242 181,568 47,383 2,898 4,454 21,180 1,502 17,807 2003 9,174 23,568 365 6,686 3,135 11,952 1,571 19,048 2004 31,131 167,135 39,522 3,198 2,113 9,164 1,145 39,093 2005 59,000 - 131 1,179 12,496 29,488 1,041 20,762 2006 154,371 2,652 203 4,945 414 9,443 395 91,260 Source: Central Statistics Department, 2007

Tables 10 and 11 present the direction of import and export by country and region from 1995 to 2002. Table 10 indicates (for the years where sufficient data was available e.g. 1999-2002) that most of the imports originate from Europe, followed by Asia and then Africa. Within Africa, most of the import comes from the ECOWAS block. Table 11 shows a different trend with most domestic exports bound for Asia. It also indicates a significant decline in domestic exports for 1999 and after compared with before 1999.

Table 10: Direction of Imports by Country and Region (1995 – 2002 in (000 of Dalasi) TRADE 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 Europe N/A N/A N/A N/A 1,127,039 1,306,462 1,306,333 2,113,236 America N/A N/A N/A N/A 245,866 219,513 170,707 237,140 Asia N/A N/A N/A N/A 428,530 378,708 286,237 361,668 AFRICA 255,971 298,616 188,951 215,091 192,064 392,425 238,70 288,123 Other Africa 27,478 27,157 20,462 28,299 ECOWAS 228,493 271,459 168,489 187,792 158,467 350,659 218,373 268,511 Cape Verde - 1,782 523 24 8 277 355 - Cote D’Ivore 181,707 178,514 104,314 136,882 89,820 267,544 167,457 114,189 Ghana 464 1,442 1,518 3,624 8,167 2,530 3,326 4,422 Guinea 153 1,740 1,319 708 301 934 786 913 Guinea 119 337 501 579 915 196 599 1,250 Bissau Liberia 754 601 222 688 1,660 29 302 233 Mali 1 19 38 75 47 238 13 166 Mauritania* 919 1,212 207 805 1,410 4,964 425 155 Nigeria 3,609 3,788 14,412 7,494 3,518 6,065 4,536 6,237 Senegal 38,680 73,204 42,782 35,464 49,937 67,190 39,172 138,836 Sierra Leone 2,029 8,386 2,293 1,444 2,679 692 1,279 1,892 Source: Department of State for Trade, Industry and Employment(DOSTIE,2006) Note* Mauritania is no longer a member ECOWAS

Table 11: Domestic Export by Country and Region (1995 – 2002) (Values in D’000) TRADE 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 EUROPE N/A N/A N/A N/A 22,298 21,485 - - AMERICA 90,686 316,162 210,638 235,352 ASIA 302,689 505,734 396,326 730,528 2,853 2,483 678 908 AFRICA 204,000 196,000 139,000 229,000 107,646 130,372 7,156 12,275 OTHER AFRICA ECOWAS 66,899 13,60910,216 18,685 Cape Verde - 474 39 - 509 - - - Cote D’Ivoire 32 716 29 6 1,380 212 22 - Ghana 3,204 4,1492,147 2,772 12,272 2,004 3721,056 Guinea - 1,6181,398 6,479 9,495 3,960 5,6001,411 Guinea Bissau 163 1,403 779 1,321 3,666 19,312 - - Liberia - -99 285 384 - -- Mali 1,212 -734 88 2,034 24 6- Mauritania* 32 82 471 528 1,113 3 605,051 Nigeria 260 499248 373 1,380 13 45243 Senegal 60,807 3,8784,080 5,179 73,944 77,705 1,022 4,217 Sierra Leone 171 84 5 1,209 1,469 646 - - Source: Department of State for Trade, Industry and Employment (DOSTIE, 2006)

Due to The Gambia’s geo-political location, a significant transit and re-export trade had been established over years, which contribute measurably to national revenue. Since the introduction of Economic Reforms in 1986, The Gambia has adapted policies culminating in trade liberalization. Consequently, it has dismantled all quantitative restrictions to trade with import prohibitions maintained only on security, environmental, health, and morality grounds, as well as under international conventions to which it is a party.

This policy regime and its sequencing engendered favourable trading terms with countries of the sub-region resulting in robust re-export to these countries. However, the inter-regional trade was more buoyant in the 1980s and early 1990s when some 33-40% of imports was re-exported to neighbouring countries and comprised a significant proportion of domestic revenue. However towards 1998/99 when the trade policies of some of the neighbouring states changed including the devaluation of the FCFA and restricted borders particularly with Senegal, re-exports trade witnessed a decline except for 1998 during the period 1995 to 2002 as presented in Table 11. It shows a peak of 61 Million Dalasi for re-exports in 1995 to a low of 5 Million in 2002. Imports on the other hand increased significantly resulting in a negative trade balance situation

2.1.7 Trade Agreements that Include Agriculture

The trade policy of the Government of The Gambia continues to be guided by the principles of trade liberalization, deregulation and investment promotion. To this end has entered into a number of agreements, amongst those related to agriculture include the ECOWAS, WTO, Cotonou and AGOA. These are detailed below in Table 12.

Table 12: Trade Agreements in Agriculture No. Agreement Parties Year 1 GATT United nation February, 1965 member states 2 Abuja Treaty under Economic West African May, 1975 Community of West African States member states (ECOWAS) 3 World Trade Organization (WTO) United nation October 1996 members states 2001 4 Everything But Arms(EBA) European March, 2001 Union 5 Comprehensive Africa Agriculture African Union May,2002 Development Programme (CAADP) members 6 Cotonou Agreement African April, 2003 Caribbean and Pacific (ACP)countries 7 African Growth Opportunities United States April, 2004 Act(AGOA) 8 Bilateral Agreements Cuba, Senegal, Various Nigeria,Tunesia and Iran Department of State for Trade, Industry and Employment (DOSTIE, 2006)

2.1.8 Sector Policy related to Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

The medium-term specific policy goals of the agriculture and natural resources sector are to: i) achieve national food self-sufficiency and security through the promotion of sustainably diversified food production programmes with emphasis on cereal production to contain the growth of imported rice;

ii) increase overall sector's output especially of domestic food and export products in order to ensure food security and enhance foreign exchange earning capacity to finance other aspects of the development process; iii) create employment and generate income for the majority of the rural population who are dependant on primary production particularly women, youth and producer associations; iv) diversify the production base to facilitate the production of a wide range of food and export crops in order to reduce the fluctuations and uncertainties in household incomes and export earnings; v) reduce disparities between rural-urban incomes as well as between men and women, curb rural-urban drift and accelerate the pace of development of the rural sector; vi) provide effective linkages between the agriculture and natural resources sector and other sectors of the economy particularly the tourism sector so as to enhance their mutual complementarily and supplementary on a sustainable basis; and, vii) ensure the judicious and sustainable exploitation of the country's natural resource base so as to conserve and improve biodiversity and enhance its productivity consistent with consideration of the needs and rights of future generations.

Food and Cash Crops Sub-sector Strategies: i) to develop and/or screen and introduce crop cultivars and varieties of a duration appropriate to the climatic circumstances of the major agricultural zones; ii) to address the institutional, socio-economic and physical constraints to the widespread adoption of known labour saving-devices to alleviate labour bottlenecks and improve labour productivity in crop production; iii) to promote and facilitate the use of appropriate integrated pest control measures and, biological and chemical technologies such as herbicides in crop production to improve land productivity and alleviate labour bottlenecks especially at weeding; iv) to promote introduction of mechanical threshing of groundnuts and efficient methods of field drying to reduce crop losses and aflatoxin contamination; v) to maintain the vigour and the purity of the seeds of improved crop varieties in circulation through developing an efficient production, storage and distribution system of seed; vi) to encourage the adoption of simple soil and water management practices and structures such as construction of contour bunds and ploughing and, judicious application of conservation tillage; and,

vii) to improve the efficiency of crop marketing and processing by facilitating and encouraging increased private sector participation through provision of appropriate incentive regime, social and economic infrastructure and a legal framework that affords sufficient protection to private ownership and reduces production cost.

Livestock Sub-sector Policies: i) to contribute to the diversification of agriculture and rural income through improvement of the livestock sector and to better meet dietary requirements and maximize foreign exchange earnings; ii) to keep livestock production in balance and at levels consistent with the limitations of rural resources and to meet the requirements for draught animals; and, iii) to integrate crop and livestock production systems so as to reduce environmental degradation and improve soil fertility while enhancing availability of supplementary feed from crop residues.

Fisheries Sub-sector policies: i) make optimal use of both the marine, riverine and potential aquaculture fishery resources of the country, ii) promote value-added processing of fishery resources to increase the returns to the participants in the sub-sector iii) encourage the exploitation of the nation's pelagic fishery resources as against the demersal resources which have reached (or are approaching) their optimal yield level; iv) ensure that fish and fish products are readily and widely available in all parts of the country; and, v) provide a conducive investment environment to attract more private sector operators into the sub-sector.

Forestry Sub-sector Policies: i) to provide an adequate supply of wood and forest products for domestic and industrial uses; ii) to minimize soil desiccation and soil movement caused by water and wind erosion thus reducing soil degradation and thereby enhancing land productivity and sustenance of adequate level of agricultural production; iii) establish, maintain and develop 30% of the land area in forest and ensure that 75% of this is managed and protected according to accepted forest management principles.

iv) development of cost-effective management plans and strategies for protected areas. v) assess the country’s sites of high ecological values (fauna, flora), geological, cultural and aesthetic values, based on existing knowledge, aerial photographs and site visits. vi) to protect the natural fauna and flora of the forest environment.

2.1.9 Institutional, regulatory and policy framework for information and communication

The Department of State for Communication, Information and Technology (DOSCIT) has the mandate for the coordination, promotion and regulation of the ICT sector. At the sectoral level a number of structures exist for information dissemination, recording and storage. In the agricultural sector two institutions: the Agricultural Communication Division and the Department of Planning carry out message and agricultural information development and farm and price data collection, analysis, dissemination and storage.

The Gambia as part of the Vision 2020 has as its ICT objectives “to transform the Gambia into a technologically advanced and information rich society by the year 2020”. The country has already taken some initiatives in this direction and formulated a National Communication and Information (NICI). This policy is expected to create a very catalytic atmosphere for harnessing ICT in the country in all sectors. The policy framework hinge on the following objectives:

¾ Liberalizing the ICT sector to increase competition and more choice for consumers;

¾ Encouraging collaboration and coordination in ICT infrastructure development at local, regional and international level;

¾ Promoting and enabling the building and establishment of appropriate ICT infrastructure and broadband access that supports ICT development countrywide;

¾ Encouraging public-private partnership in providing the ICT infrastructure as well as attract both foreign and domestic investment in this sector;

¾ Establishing Universal Service Fund to provide reliable basic ICT services for the citizenry country-wide so as to meet Universal Service obligations; and,

¾ Increasing and improving the bandwidth to ensure reliable and uninterrupted services for ICT application.

For the agricultural sector, the policy seeks to ensure the establishment and functioning of appropriate systems of generating, processing, management, dissemination and use of reliable agricultural statistics and information on the ANR sector, for use by

stakeholders for planning, advice, policy analysis, programme formulation and delivery, monitoring and investment, and management of natural resources in the ANR sector.

The overall regulation of the ICT sector is provided by the DOSCIT although no comprehensive framework exists. An initiative, the Internet Regulatory Authority is being formulated.

2.2 Socioeconomic Profile

2.2.1 Demographics

The Gambia has from the 4 ten-year censuses as presented in Table 13 registered a high but mixed population growth rate increasing from 3.4% to 4.2% from the 1973-83 censuses and declining from 4.2% to 2.77 from 1993 to 2003 censuses. Among the regions Kanifing and Brikama experienced annual increases of above 3.5% whilst that for Banjul declined. Similarly, the population density increased from 47 persons per kilometer to 128 persons per kilometer.

Table 13: Key Demographic Indicators for The Gambia: 1973-2003 Local Population Census Annual Growth Rate Government Area 1973 1983 1993 2003 1973 1983- 93-03 -83 93 Banjul 39,476 44,18842,326 35,061 1.2 -0.4 -1.93 Kanifing 39,404 101,504 228,214 322,735 9.9 8.4 3.52 Brikama 91,013 137,245 234,917 389,594 4.2 5.5 5.28 Mansa Konko 42,447 55,263 65,146 72,167 2.7 1.7 1.08 Kerewan 93,388 112,225 156,462 172,835 1.8 3.4 1.00 Kuntaur 47,669 57,59467,774 78,491 1.9 1.6 1.56 Janjanburey 54,232 68,410 88,247 107,212 2.3 2.6 1.93 Basse 86,167 111,388 155,059 182,586 2.6 3.4 1.67 The Gambia 493,499 687,817 1,025,867 1,360,681 3.4 4.2 2.77 Density 47 64 97 128 Source: CSD, 2003

The age structure according to the 2003 Population Census, indicates that 42% are below 15 years of age; this is indicative of a young population. The data indicate that only 9% are above 60 years of age and above.

2003 POPULATION AND HOUSING CENSUS OF THE GAMBIA THE AGE GROUP DISTRIBUTION OF POPULATION BY SEXES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS LOCAL POPULATION BY BOTH SEXES GOVERNMENT TOTAL < 1 1 – 2 3 – 4 5 – 6 7 - 14 15 - 49 50 - 59 60 + NS AREAS BANJUL 35,061 7251,409 1,551 1,433 5,346 20,772 1,635 1,831 359 KANIFING 322,735 7,07115,564 17,530 15,887 58,437 180,684 12,036 11,315 4,211 BRIKAMA 389,594 9,74520,983 24,946 23,450 84,143 188,876 14,924 19,071 3,456 MANSAKONKO 72,167 1,476 4,196 5,164 4,907 17,344 30,169 3,440 5,108 363 KEREWAN 172,835 4,02910,155 12,617 12,045 40,797 74,460 7,244 10,338 1,150 KUNTAUR 78,491 1,5604,794 6,217 5,802 18,343 33,523 3,245 4,579 428 JANJANBUREH 107,212 2,062 6,347 7,965 7,752 25,254 46,424 4,280 6,338 790 BASSE 182,586 3,59210,821 13,402 13,214 43,166 79,953 6,756 10,139 1,543 THE GAMBIA 1,360,681 30,260 74,269 89,392 84,490 292,830 654,861 53,560 68,719 12,300 FEMALE POPULATION BANJUL 16,265 365684 767 710 2,767 9,136 726 978 132 KANIFING 158,756 3,4557,634 8,824 7,912 30,564 87,571 5,146 5,759 1,891 BRIKAMA 194,585 4,83110,269 12,482 11,534 41,854 96,096 6,594 9,351 1,574 MANSAKONKO 37,964 735 2,079 2,595 2,348 8,454 17,158 1,739 2,659 197 KEREWAN 90,001 1,9525,043 6,221 5,897 19,796 41,998 3,607 4,985 502 KUNTAUR 40,911 7572,365 3,166 2,843 9,095 18,852 1,490 2,141 202 JANJANBUREH 55,505 1,014 3,166 4,004 3,855 12,594 25,511 1,959 3,072 330 BASSE 95,853 1,7155,393 6,825 6,566 21,168 44,928 3,455 5,152 651 THE GAMBIA 689,840 14,824 36,633 44,884 41,665 146,292 341,250 24,716 34,097 5,479 Source: Central Statistics Department, 2003

2.2.2 Literacy Levels and Languages

Table 14 presents data on adult literacy and show that rates are very low in the Gambia. Overall (composite combining men and women) increased from 25 % adult literacy in 1983 to 37% in 1993 and then to 48% in 2003. Men are considered more literate than women with consistently higher literacy rates. During the last Population Census in 2003 some 58% of men compared to 37% for women were literate. Increasing literacy and improving the education system particularly for women has been reported to be critical in improving heath and nutrition and access to information.

English is the official language and is the medium of instruction in conventional schools from nursery to tertiary levels. The Gambia is a multi-ethnic society with a number of vernacular spoken comprising the mandinka (40%), the fulla (19%), the wollof (15%), the jola (11%), the serrere (3%), The aku (2%) and the bambara (1%).

Table 14: Selected Indicators on Literacy and Access to Services Indicator 1973 1983 1993 2003 Life expectancy at Birth in (Years) Overall 33 42 53 58 Male 32 40 52 58 Female 35 44 54 59 Fertility Rate, total (birth per woman) 6.1 6.4 6.1 5.1 Mortality Rate under 5 (per 1000) 320 260 137 75 Infant Mortality Rate ( per 1000 ) 217 167 137 75 Maternal Mortality( per 100,000 live - - 1050 730 births) Population access to safe drinking water 23 50 80 (in %) Access to Improved Sanitation(% Overall) 25 53 Adult Literacy Rate in %-Overall 25 37 48 Men 38.5 55 58 Women 14.7 27 37 Sources: Various (Health PER, 2001; PRSP II, November 2006)

2.2.3 Access to Services

The public health service delivery system is three tier based on the primary health care strategy. Presently services are provided by 3 hospitals, 36 health facilities at the secondary level and 492 health posts at primary levels. The public health system is complemented by 34 private and non-governmental clinics. According the health PER (2003) the public sector has 1477 beds, 211 doctors and dentists, 8 pharmacists, 261 registered nurses, 250 Enrolled nurses, 144 community nurses, 122 public health officials.

Safe water is an essential pillar of sustainable health for rural and urban population. Data in Table 14 indicate that 80% and 53% of the population in 2003 have access to safe drinking water and 53 improved sanitation respectively. It should be indicated that these facilities are unevenly distributed between rural and urban areas.

School enrolment and attendance previously low in the past has increased with increased accessibility to schools for the rural population. Table 15 indicates that 745 schools of various categories exist with for Lower basic, 103 for Upper basic 83 basic Cycle and 66 Senior Secondary schools.

Table 15: Number of Schools by Regional Education Directorate Lower Upper Basic Senior Total Region/School type Basic Basic Cycle Secondary Banjul 74 44 3 31 152 Western Region 85 27 24 15 151 North Bank Region 70 10 17 8 105 Lower River Region 56 4 12 2 73 Central River Region 115 8 15 5 143 Upper River Region 92 10 12 5 119 The Gambia 491 103 83 66 745 Source: Department of State for Education, 2004

Electricity is provided by the state-owned National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC). Lack of investment and inadequate maintenance of the aging infrastructure have led to a progressive decline in reliability, cost effectiveness and efficiency. Power losses are estimated at 37-42 percent, far above the industry norm. Of these losses, NAWEC estimates that 25 percent are attributable to theft with the remaining 75 percent being technical. Table 15 provides information on the status of electricity detailing customer population, electricity sales, system losses, energy demand and energy demand growth rate from 2004 to 2006. The strategic objective for the energy sector is the establishment of partnership arrangements with multinational companies for the latter to generate supplementary capacity, which is sold to NAWEC for transmission, distribution and sale to consumers. One such arrangement is currently being implemented with the Global Electric Group in March 2006 which has an installed capacity of 25 megawatts.

Table 15: Status of Electricity Provision Item 2004 2005 2006 Customer 35,329 54,976 66,405 Population Sales KWH 80,233,481 91,889,449 111,255,946 System Losses 37.3 41.2 40.8 (including powerhouse consumption) Energy Demand 289,080 312,210 368,970 MWH Energy Demand 18.5 7.4 18.18 Growth rate Source: PURA Annual Report, 2006

The rural electrification project commissioned in 2007 is providing power to a number of rural towns and is expected to provide a boost to the development of rural industries. Despite these developments, power outages are frequent and the price of electricity is high even by African standards as indicated in Table 16.

Table 16: Comparative Cost Structure – Electricity The Ghana Uganda Mauritius Senegal Gambia Electricity US$.14 US$0.06 US$ 0.03 US$0.07 US $0.08 Manufacturing Cents up to rate$ per KWh 130 KWh Source: IDI/Sahel Invest,2003)

NAWEC is also responsible for distribution of water. This task is undermined by the difficulties with electricity since the water must be pumped. Although the water situation is much less dire than for electricity, and water quality is good, some areas are subject to daily cuts in water supplies and pressure is often weak.

2.2.4 Rural to Urban Drift

Table 17 indicates a rapid increase in the urban population. Until the 1970’s population movements from rural to urban areas was mainly seasonal with rural migrants moving to urban areas in search of jobs during the dry season (stretching from December to May) and returning to rural areas at the beginning of the rains. Since the Sahelian droughts of the mid-1970s, however, the rate of settlement for such migrants in urban areas has increased considerably. Table 17 indicates that the proportion of the population resident in urban areas increased from 23 per cent in 1973 to 31 per cent in 1983 and 38 per cent in 1993 and 51 percent in 2003. This can be attributed to the declining rural income, the huge disparity between rural and urban incomes, the lack of job opportunities and the absence of essential social services such as health and education.

Table 17: Urban Population and Proportion by Census 1973-2003 Census Year Total Population Urban Population Percentage Urban The Gambia population 1973 493,499 112,689 23 1983 687,817 211,779 31 1993 1,025,867 386,876 38 2003 1,360,681 686,090 51 Source: CSD,2003

The Gambia also attracted large numbers of migrants from the sub-region, mainly into urban areas. The high urban population growth has culminated in increased urban unemployment and pressure on the limited social amenities in urban areas.

2.3 Media and Telecommunication

2.3.1 Newspapers, periodicals and broadcast media

Table 18: Newspapers in The Gambia Newspaper Ownership Circulation Number of Address copies per issue Banjul Private Bimonthly 5 000 6 Adama Njie Street, Bakau New Town, Weekend Tel:2209844742 Tel:2209889190 Emai: [email protected] Daily Private Wednesday C/0 GPU. Mosque Road, Serrekunda Express and Saturday P.o.Box 3465, SerreKunda Tel: 2209985504 22079 Daily Private Monday, 2 000-5 000 PMB 131, Banjul Observer Tuesday, Bakau New Town, Sait Matty Road, Bakau Thursday, KSMD Friday and Tel: Saturday [email protected] www.oberver.gm Foroya Private Monday, 1 100-1 300 P.O.Box 2306, Serekunda Wednesday Churchill Town, KSMD and Friday Tel 2204393177 Fax 2204393177 9918216 [email protected] Gambia Daily Gov Monday, 200-500 Daniel Goddard Street, Banjul Wednesday Tel 2204223279 and Friday Gambia Private Weekly 1 000 P.O.Box 976, Banjul News and 73 Mosque Road, Serre Kunda (Dippa Report Kunda), KSMD Email: [email protected] The Point Private Monday, 2 000-3 000 2 Garba Jahumpa Road, Fajara, KSMD Tuesday, 220 4497441/2 Wednesday 2209917501 and Thursday Email: [email protected] Website: www.thepoint.gm Today Private Tuesday and 1 500 Churchill Town, Serre kunda Thursday Tel 2209801623 Email: [email protected] Source: Survey Data, December, 2007

Table 19: Broadcast Media (Radio) Radio Address Coverage Frequency Broadcast Station hours/day City Limits 49 Kairaba Avenue, Greater Banjul Area and 93.6 FM 18 KSMD Western Region 2204375531 Radio 1 FM Kairaba Avenue Greater Banjul Area and 93.4 FM 20 Western Region Radio Syd Mile 2, Banjul Greater Banjul Area, 909KHZ 20 2204226490 NBR Radio Mile 7, Bakau, KSMD Countrywide 98.6 FM 15 Gambia-Mile 7 Radio Basse, URR URR, CRR 747MHZ 15 Gambia- Basse West Coast Herman Gmina, Manjai Greater Banjul Area, 95.3 FM 24 Radio Western Region and NBR Kids With Kairaba Avenue Greater Banjul Area and 106.7 FM 20 Talent(KWT) Western Region Brikama Brikama, Western Region Western Region 98.0 FM 20 Community Radio Yiriwa FM Brikama, Western Region Western Region 94.7 FM 20 Kerewan Kerewan, NBR NBR and LRR 105.7 FM 8 Community Radio Farafenni Farafenni, NBR NBR and LRR 103.5 FM 8 Community Radio Source: Survey Data, December, 2007

Table 20: Broadcast Media (Television in The Gambia) Station Ownership Coverage Broadcast Address Hours GRTS TV Gov Countrywide 6 Sayerr Jobe Avenue GAMTV Private Greater 24 Garba Jahumpa Banjul Area Avenue,Bakau New Town Premium Private Greater 24 Kotu, KSMD TV(DSTV) Banjul Area Source: Survey Data, December, 2007

2.3.2 Telecommunication Services

The Telecommunication industry comprises of GAMTEL the primary provider of fixed lines with mobile GSM services provided by GAMCEL, AFRICELL and COMIUM. Table 21 provides detailed information on the coverage, number of subscribers of the telecommunication service providers.

Table 21: Telephone/Mobile Service Provider Name Address Cost of 3 # of individual Coverage min subscribers local call GAMTEL GAMTEL House 0.26€ 53,000 70% of the country (fixed line) GAMCEL(Mobile) Mamadi Manjang 0.26€ 195,922 70% of the country Highway, Kanifing, KSMD AFRICELL(Mobile) Kairaba Avenue 0.29€ 208,423 70% of the country COMMIUM 27 Kairaba Avenue, 0.29€ 7,000 30% of the country (Mobile) Pipeline, KSMD Source: Survey Data, December, 2007

GAMTEL, the fixed lined provider, has modernized its telephone system with the installation of digital telephone exchange and network and has established several branches in strategic community locations ad equipped them with the necessary communication facilities. At these branch offices international calls and telefax messages can be received and sent. Connection rate for mobiles are generally high and compare favorably with many countries in the sub-region. However, the costs of fixed line telecommunication services provided by GAMTEL exceed the regional average as highlighted in Table 22. The pending Telecom Bill is expected to open up competition for fixed lines. Public telephone access services like telecentres are very much widespread in the Greater Banjul Area with a number operating in the rural areas making telephone services available to the public.

Table 22: Comparative Cost Structure – Telecommunication The Ghana Uganda Mauritius Senegal Gambia Telephone US$ 0.70 US$ 0.50 US$ 3.00 US$ 1.40 US$0.50 charges to Europe per minute Source: IDi/Sahel Invest, 2003

However, prices for mobile telephone calls are on the decline with more market entry and competition. Connection rate for mobiles are generally high and compare favorably with many countries in the sub-region. Figure 2 presents information on total subscribers by fixed and mobile from 1998 to 2006 and shows that while fixed lined dominated up to 2001 but mobile dominated afterwards

Fixed Vs Mobile Subscribers (1998-2006)

300

250

200

150 Fixed Mobile

100

0 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006

2.2.3 Computers and Internet

Both the Government institutions and private sector have a fair number of ICT equipment with the private sector optimizing use of ICT for business. The picture is however not balanced with some offices having majority of equipment whilst others are poorly equipped. The scenario being much worse for in terms of the rural urban divide with most rural locations using obsolete, slow machines installed years ago. According to World Bank (ICT at a glance) there were 11 personal computers per 1000 people in 2000; these increased to 16 per 1000 people in 2005. The use of ICT equipment is hindered by lack of reliable support services, particularly electricity, with the situation more acute in rural areas where equipment can lie idle for long without use. With only relatively few trained ICT personnel, retention has become difficult and most ICT firms have inadequate manpower to cater of existing ICT equipment.

There are five Internet Service Providers (ISPs). Four of these channel their traffic through one international gateway owned by GAMTEL, whilst AIRTIP has been allowed to operate a Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT). Some of the ISP’s had wireless infrastructure configured for high speed Internet service but have been constrained to offer such services because the Internet highway controlled by GAMTEL does not provide full broad band access. Table 24 provides information on the Internet service providers and the number of subscribers.

Table 24: Internet Service Providers in The Gambia Name Address # of individual subscribers GAMTEL Abuko 586 (ISP) QUANTUMNET Kairaba Avenue 650 Netpage Solutions Kairaba Avenue 206 Airtip Kairaba Avenue n/a Unique Solutions Bakau New Town n/a Source: PURA, Annual Report, 2006

The number of Internet users according to the World Bank Data (ICT at a glance) increased from 9 persons per 1,000 people in 2000 to 33 persons per 1000 people. Similarly, the percentage of schools connected to the Internet increased from 2% to 13% from 2000 to 2005. The price basket for Internet use by per month is estimated at 17.8 US$.

ANNEX 3. PROFILE OF INSTITUTIONS

3.1 List of Institutions in the Agricultural and Rural Development Sector No Name of Org Name of Contact Position Org. Town Tel Fax Email Type of Role of Organization Address Organization 1 Department of Mr. Bakary Trawally Permanent The Banjul 2204228270 220 4228270 [email protected] GOV PP State for Secretary Quadrangle Agriculture 2 Department of Mr. Abdoulie Manneh Permanent The Banjul 2209961122 GOV PP State for Local Secretary Quadrangle Government and Lands

3 Department of Mr Bubu Jallow Permanent State House Banjul 2202201515 GOV PP State for Secretary Forestry and the Environment 4 Department of Mr. Lamin Nyabally Permanent 7 Marina Banjul 220 4227631 GOV PP State for Secretary Parade Fisheries and Water Resources 5 Department of Mr. Karim Sonko Permanent MDI Road Kanifing 2204378000 GOV PP State for Secretary Communication, Information and Technology 6 National Mr. Bakary sonko Director Cape Point, Bakau 220449542 2204497353 GOV EX RD IN FS Agricultural General Cape St. 2204495038 Development Mary Agency 7 Department of Mr. Fafanding Fatajo Director 5 Marina Banjul 220422040 220422040 [email protected] GOV PP RD IN Planning Parade 8 Department of Mr..Musa Dampha Director Cape St. Bakau 2204496420 GOV EX Extension Mary Services

9 Department of Mr.Landing Sonko Director Yundum Yundum 2204472058 GOV RD Technical Agricultural Services Station

No Name of Org Name of Contact Position Org. Town Tel Fax Email Type of Role of Organization Address Organization 10 Department of Mr.Cherno Mballow Director Cape Point, Bakau 4497352 GOV Agribusiness Cape St. Mary 11 Department of Mr. Husainou Director Marina Banjul 2204228178 GOV EX RD Community Jorbateh Parade Development

13 Department of Mr. Ousman Jarju Director Marina Banjul 220422272 Gov RD IN Water Parade Resources 14 Department of Mr. Ardy Njie Director Marina Banjul 2204201515 GOV RD EX Fisheries Parade 15 Directorate of Mr Ebou Jobe Director MDI Road Kanifing GOV Information Technology

16 Agricultural Mr. Aboulie Bojang Head of Abuko Abuko 2209998607 220 4392282 [email protected] GOV Communication Unit Station Division (ACD)

17 Participatory Mr.Omar Jammeh Coordinator Kofi Annan Bakau 2204497990 220 4497990 GOV RD Integrated Street,Cape Watershed Point Project (PIWAMP) 18 Peri-Urban Mr.Lamin AD Coordinator Abuko Abuko 220 4393870 2204393875 [email protected] GOV RD EX FS Smallholder Sanyang Station Improvement Project (PSIP)

19 Rural Finance Mr.Alasan Bah Acting Cape Abuko 220 4497354 220439 [email protected] GOV Project Coordinator Point,Cape St. Mary 20 Farmer Mr. Momodou Mbye Coordinator Sapu Sapu 220-4484925 220 4484931 GOV Managed Rice Jabang Agricultural 2204484931 Project Station 21 NERICA Rice Dr.Mustapha Ceesay Coordinator NARI Brikama 2204484925 220 4484931 GOV Dissemination 2204484931 Project

No Name of Org Name of Contact Position Org. Town Tel Fax Email Type of Role of Organization Address Organization 22 Market Mr. Momodou Ceesay Focal Point C/o GHE Old 2204394819 2204394820 PRV Information Jeshwang Service for Traders Organizations in West Africa (MISTOWA)- Gambia 23 ActionAid Dr. Kuje Manneh Country MDI Road Kanifing 2204392244 [email protected] INGO International The Director /4392004 rg Gambia (AAITG) 24 Catholic Relief Mr. David Donavan Country Fajara Bakau 2204498000 2204498007 [email protected] INGO Services(CRS) Director 2204498001 g /4498002 25 Freedom from Mr. Babanding Jaiteh Director Lamin Lamin 2204474024 220 447025 [email protected] NGO Hunger Sanchaba 220447025 Campaign (FFHC) 26 Gambia Food Mr. Albert Cox Executive Independen Bakau 2204496743 NGO and Nutrition Director ce Stadium 2204496745 Association (GAFNA) 27 Musa Jeng National 50 Garba Bakau 220495622 22044496316 [email protected] NGO Campaign for Director Jahumpa 2204497745 Development and Road Solidarity (FORUT( Gambia)

28 , 2204373105/4 2204483235 World 39226 Evangelization for Christ International (WEC) International)

29 Shahab A. faesal Director c/o Post 2204393183 2204393183 [email protected] NGO RU Africa Muslims Office Road, Agency P.OBox

2312

No Name of Org Name of Contact Position Org. Town Tel Fax Email Type of Role of Organization Address Organization 30 Muhamed Kora President MDI Road Kanifing NGO RU The Gambia Organisation of The Visually Impaired (GOVI)

31 Diana Tottle Executive PMB 6016 Farafenni 2205735373/ [email protected] NGO RU Village Aid Coordinator 2205748045 Project Gambia

32 Barnon Robinson Director Kotu Kotu 2204460737 2204460737 NGO RU Association of Layout- Baptist for World West Evangelish (ABWE)

33 Olimata Dibba General Kanifing Kanifing 2204397063 4397062 [email protected] NGO FS Gambia Manager Industrial /64 Women's Estate Finance Association (GAWFA)

34 Foundation For Fatou Waggeh Executive Tafsir Banjul 2204225270 NGO FS Research on Director Demba Women's Health, Mbye Street Productivity and the Environment (BAFROW) 35 Dr. Isatou Touray Executive Garba Bakau 2204497416 2204497416 [email protected] The Gambia Coordinator Jahumpa Committee on Road Traditional practices

36 The National Council of The Gambia YMCA 37 Foundation for Humanitarian Aid Gambia

No Name of Org Name of Contact Position Org. Town Tel Fax Email Type of Role of Organization Address Organization 38 Massembeh Kiang 2204484186 Gambia Good Seed Mission

39 Lamin Fatty President Farraba Faraba 2204487101 4484100 Kombo East Banta Tesito Association (KETA)

40 Mam Samba Joof Team P.B0x 828 Kerewan 2205720106 5720075 [email protected] Agency for the Leader Development of Women and Children (ADWAC)

41 Women in Mariatou Kassim General JIMPEX Kanifing 2204390536 4390536 kassimmariatu@hotm Service Loum Manager Road ail.com Development and Management(WI SDOM) 42 43 Momodou Secka Coordinator Farafenni Farafenni 2209953160 2205735524 [email protected] Gambia 4H m

44 Badara Jobe Coordinator Njawara Njawara 2205720130 Njawara Agricultural Training Centre

45 2204390730 Rescue Mission Planet Earth

46 Marina BANJUL Anglican Mission Parade Development

Ministries

47 Institute of Social Phoday Kebbeh Executive 1A Fakalya Bundung 2204370418/4 4390521 [email protected] Research and Director Street 392952 Action (ISRA)

No Name of Org Name of Contact Position Org. Town Tel Fax Email Type of Role of Organization Address Organization 48 Yankuba Dibba Executive Kanifing Gambia Family Director Planning Association Kanifing

49 Ousman Cham Executive Radio Kanifing Christian Director Gambia South Children's Fund Road (CCF)

50 Trust Agency for Wanjiku Kagira Programme Gunjur Kombo Rural Kargbo Director Village South, WD Development (TARUD) 51 Nuha Jatta Chief 22 Atlantic Fajara Voluntary Executive Road Services Overseas (VSO)

52 Association of Seedy Bensuda National P.O Box Brikama Farmers, President Town, Educators and Western Traders, AFET Division 53 Association of Amira Ghanim Jagne Director Kairaba Gambian Avenue, Entrepreneurs Fajara (AGE) 54 Mr. Soni George Director Brikama Brikama Methodist Town, Mission Western Agricultural Division Programme

(MMAP)

55 Micro Finance Mr. Sariang Jorbateh Director Cape Point Bakau Promotion Centre 56 The Gambia Red Lamin Jammeh Secretary Mamadi Kanifing Cross Society General Manjang Highway 57 Worldview Mrs. Adelade Sosseh Director 49 Garba Bakau International Gaye Jahumpa

Foundation Road,

No Name of Org Name of Contact Position Org. Town Tel Fax Email Type of Role of Organization Address Organization 58 Gambia Rural Kebba Bah Executive Soma Soma Development Director Village, Agency (GARDA Jarra West District 59 National Alhagi Kebbeh Director Latrikunda Latrikunda, Assoviation of Sabiji KSMD Youth Against Food Securiy (NAYAFS)

60 Ousman Yarbo Director Garba Bakau The Assoication Jahumpa of Non- Road Governmental Organisation (TANGO)

61 Stay Green Baboucarr Mbye Director Essau Essau Foundation Village, N.B.D 62 Ebou Sillah Director Youth Front Against Drugs and Alcohol Abuse (YFADAA)

63 52 Kombo Youth Action for Sillah Drive, Food Self- Churchills sufficiency and Town Education (YAFSSE)

64 Kairaba Catholic Office for Avenue, Development Kanifing CADO

65 P.O. Box Fund for Africa, 2929 Africa American S/Kunda Cultural and No.3 Allen Educational Street Solidarity

(FACES)

No Name of Org Name of Contact Position Org. Town Tel Fax Email Type of Role of Organization Address Organization 66 Bakoteh Initiatives Housing Development Estate Association The P.O. Box Gambia (IDAG) 1546 S/Kd

67 Wuli and Sandu Wuli Upper NGO RU Development River Agency(WASDA Division )

68 Wulli Basse, NGO RU Development Upper River Agency (WAD) Division

69 Pro-Poor Dr. Siga Jagne Director Sayerr Jobe Bakau New NGO RD Advocacy Avenue, Town, Group(PRoPAG) KSMD

70 Musa Jawneh President Brikama Brikama NGO RD Natonal: Misira National Farmers Platform, The Gambia (NFPG)

71 Gambia National Saikouba Sanyang President Brikama Brikama NGO RU Cashew Growers Association

72 Natonal: ROPPA C/o Farmer’s Platform President Brikama Brikama NGO RD

73 Association for Dr. Kebba Secretary the Fadera General Advancement of Science and Tehnoogy in The Gambia(AASAT 74 : National Mr. Amadou Gaye Chairman Consumer and Protection Agency

No Name of Org Name of Contact Position Org. Town Tel Fax Email Type of Role of Organization Address Organization 75 YAMPI Farmers Isatou Jarju President Jenoi Lower River Association Region

76 Agricultural Lamin Jobe Director PMB 526 220 4484925 220484921 GOV RD Research General Serre Institute (NARI) Kunda, Brikama, Western Region

77 International Dr. Sheikh Leigh Director P.M.B. 14, The 220 4462928 2204462924 [email protected] REG RD Tryponotoleranc General Banjul Gambia, e Centre (ITC) Kerr Serign , Western Division

78 University of The Mr. Jenung Manneh Head of Building, University 2204397912/2 [email protected] EDU TR Gambia (UTG) faculty Kanifing of The 209917098 Website: Gambia, www.unigambia.gm Facullty

79 College, School Dr. Badara Senghore Principal Brikama Brikama, 2204483298 EDU TR of Agriculture Campus Western Region

80 Gambia Mrs. Fatou Mboob Kanifing Technical Mbye Training Institute(GTTI), 81 Management Yusupha Dibba Director Mamadi Kanifing, EDU TR, Development General Manjang KSMD RD Institute (MDI) Highway

82 Chamen Hayib Touray Director Chamen NBR Training Centre 83 Njawara Badara Jobe Director Njawara NBR Agricultural Training Centre 84 Radio Gambia, Momodou sanyang Director MDI Road, Kanifing GOV IN Radio and General Kanifing Television Services (GRTS)

No Name of Org Name of Contact Position Org. Town Tel Fax Email Type of Role of Organization Address Organization 85 Radio Gambia- Basse, GOV IN Basse Upper River (747 Mhz) Division

87 Radio 1 FM 14 Kairaba PRV IN (93.6 FM) Avenue,Ser re Kunda,KMC 89 Radio Syd (909 Mile 2, 2204226490 PRV IN Khz Banjul High Way 90 West Coast Peter Gmez Proprietor Herman Manjai, 2204461193 PRV IN Radio Gmina KMC (93.3 FM) Road, Manjai Kunda, KMC

91 Kids With Talent Nana Anderson Proprietor Kairaba PRV IN (106.7 FM) Avenue, Serrekunda , KSMD 92 Yiriwa FM (94.7 Brikama, PRV IN FM) Western Region

93 Brikama PRV IN Community Radio (98.0 FM) 94 Farafenni Farafenni, Community NBD, The Radio Gambia (103.5 FM) 95 Kerewan Alh. Lamin Ceesay Kerewan, Community NBD, The Radio Gamia (105.7 FM)

96 Gambia Radio Serign Faye MDI Road, TE IN and Television Kanifing Services

No Name of Org Name of Contact Position Org. Town Tel Fax Email Type of Role of Organization Address Organization 97 GAM TV Papa yusupha Njie Sayerr Jobe PRV IN Avenue, Bakau New Town 98 Premum TV Momodou Taal Kotu

100 Banjul Weekend :6 Adama 2209844742 Banjulweekend@gma Njie Street, /2209889190 il.com Bakau New Town 101 Gambian Alieu Sanyang C/0 GPU. Daily/Weekly Mosque 22099855042 News Papers Road, 2079 Serrekunda P.o.Box 3465, SerreKunda

102 The Gambia Daniel 2204223279 Daily Goddard Street, Banjul 103 Foroya Sam Sarr P.O.Box 2204393177 2204393177 [email protected] 2306, 220 9918216 Serekunda Churchill Town, KSMD

104 The Gambia Suwaibu Conateh P.O.Box swaebouconateh@ho News and Reprt 976, Banjul tmail.com 73 Mosque Road, Serre Kunda (Dippa Kunda), KSMD

105 The Point 2 Garba 2204497441/2 [email protected] Newspaper Jahumpa / 2209917501 m Road, www.thepoint.gm Fajara, KSMD

No Name of Org Name of Contact Position Org. Town Tel Fax Email Type of Role of Organization Address Organization 106 Today Churchill 2209801623 hamidadiamoh@yaho Town, o.co.uk Serre kunda

107 Daily Observer PMB 131, [email protected] Banjul www.oberver.gm Bakau New Town, Sait Matty Road, Bakau KSMD

108 The Guardian Guardian 234524111 234521982 letters@ngrguidianlin PRV IN Newspaper ks.com s Limited, www.ngrguidiannews. Rutam com House, Isolo Expressway , P.O. Box 1217, Oshodi, Lagos, Lagos State

3.2. List of Selected Institutions Name of institution Department of State For Communications and Infor Technology (DOSCIT Objective/mission statement To create an enabling, competitive and conducive environment for all stakeholders in the ICT sector under the principle of fair play Field of specialization 1. Policy Development 2. Mainstreaming ICTs in social sectors and communities 3. E-Government to enhance public service delivery 4. Development of legal and regulatory framework 5. Supervising public enterprises under DOSCIT purview Number of staff (professional clerical technical 7 etc Branches other sites Directorate of ICT Spectrum Management Department of Information Annual budget €321,311 Source of funding including main donors Government budget sponsors Programme /project undertaken 1. Staff training in Information Technology 2. Development of Website and Local Area Network

Target audience (plus number, actual or 1. ISP Service Providers estimated 2. Telecomm Operators 3. Mobile Operators 4. TV Broadcasting and Postal Services 5. Government and Consumers Extent of interaction with CTA-Spore magazine None ,SDI, QAS, seminars, consultants, publications Extent of collaboration/ interaction with other 1. ITU, CTO, ATU, UNDP, Foreign Mission, institutions (name, nature) UNECA, PURA, ITAG, ISOG (promotion and regulation of ICT) 2. PanAfrican e-network with AU, E-government Implementation Action Plan with UNECA (promotion of e-government) How information needs are currently met, and Personal collection, Internet and collaborators from where and whom Main information needs not satisfied 1. Market data 2. Credit and micro credit 3. Government and International regulations 4. Development network

Name of institution Gambia Radio and Television Services(GRTS) Objective/mission statement To inform, educate and entertain through our radio and television programmes Field of specialization Broadcasting and production of radio and television programmes Number of staff (professional ,clerical, 244 technical etc Branches ,other sites Radio Basse, Upper River Region Annual budget D4.4m i.e. €132,000 Euro Source of funding including main donors Radio and Television Revenue income from sponsors adverts, programme sponsorship and user fees Programme project undertaken Local Training Programmes

Target audience (plus number, actual or The entire country and beyond estimated Extent of interaction with CTA-Spore No magazine, SDI, QAS, seminars, consultants, publications Extent of collaboration /interaction with other Radio programmes from Radio Netherlands, institutions (name, nature Deutchewell Radio, UN Radio, RF1 How information needs are currently met, Library Services and personal Interviews and from where and whom Main information needs not satisfied Social development issues and agricultural development networks

Name of institution National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI)

Objective/mission statement To conduct adaptive/client research on crops, forestry, fisheries and other natural resources in order to provide technological solutions to the problems of producers and inform policy makers on options to increase agricultural productivity and production without detriment to the natural resource base and the environment Field of specialization Agro forestry, Crop Systems and Resource management, Horticulture, Grain legumes and oilseeds, Seed technology, Cereals, Socioeconomics, Pest management, Agric. Engineering, Fisheries, Livestock Number of staff (professional, clerical, 200 technical etc Branches other sites Yundum and Sapu Annual budget €26,229.5 (D800,000.00) Source of funding including main Government Subvention donors sponsors Programme/ project undertaken Short term training in CDS/ISIS IN India and Niger, Workshop on electronic production of agric documents and bibliographic database management in Ghana, AGORA training in Dakar Target audience (plus number, actual Small scale producers in the country or estimated Extent of interaction with CTA-Spore Spore Magazine,CTA publications magazine ,SDI, QAS, seminars, consultants, publications Extent of collaboration /interaction CTA ,IITA,ICRAF,WARDA,ROCAFEMI,CORAF,ISRA with other institutions (name, nature and all in-country agricultural projects How information needs are currently CTA booklets/bulletins, University Research Papers, met, and from where and whom Personal Collection, Radio programmes, TV Programmes, Internet, Agric Research Electronic Network, Colleagues, Agribusiness Consultants Main information needs not satisfied Farm problems, technical information, economic inform

Name of institution Department of Planning(DOP/DOSA

Objective/mission statement Improve agricultural data collection and analysis for effective policy formulation and sector planning Field of specialization Agricultural Policy Analysis and Formulation, Projects/Programs Development and Control, Agricultural Statistics and Resource Economics, Monitoring and Evaluation of Agricultural Projects and Documentation Center Number of staff (professional clerical 30 permanent staff technical etc Branches other sites None Annual budget €45,901.64D1.4m Source of funding including main donors Central Government, Permanent Interstate sponsors Committee for Drought Control in the Sahel(CILSS, ADB,IFAD, and FAO through projects Programme project undertaken Inputting, analysis and publication of the National Statistical Yearbook Target audience (plus number, actual or Government (Policy) Decision-Makers, estimated NGOs, Sub regional Organizations Extent of interaction with CTA-Spore No magazine ,SDI, QAS, seminars, consultants, publications Extent of collaboration interaction with other CILSS, the collaborations are in the areas of institutions (name, nature joint projects and information exchange. These includes agricultural and food prospects in Sahel, Early Warning Bulletin How information needs are currently met, Government departments, CILSS, NGOs, and from where and whom farmers, market vendors, projects Main information needs not satisfied farmers problems, economic information, technical information (Internet access, building and posting websites, use of tele- conferencing and GIS)

Name of institution Agricultural Communications Division(ACD

Objective/mission statement To achieve agricultural development through the provision of training and promotion for increasing the knowledge and skills of the target population through the use of information, education and communication(IEC) approaches for sustainable livelihoods in the Gambia Field of specialization Film production and presentation, Radio programming, Tradition Media and Campaign, Publication, Training Number of staff (professional clerical -3 professionals technical etc -6 technical -2 clerical -1 auxiliary Total -12 Branches other sites - Annual budget €49,137.97 or D1,498,708.00 Source of funding including main donors The Gambia Government sponsors Programme/ project undertaken - Development of radio programmes for dissemination - Development of television programmes for dissemination - Development of manuals, leaflet, poster - - Training on theatre Target audience (plus number, actual or Extension Agents, Farmers, Policy makers estimated Extent of interaction with CTA-Spore - CTA Spore magazine magazine ,SDI, QAS, seminars, consultants, publications Extent of collaboration interaction with Sourcing information from partners such as: other institutions (name, nature - Government department/projects - NGOs-CRS, AAITG, NAWFA, FFHC, ADWAC - Research Institutions- ICRISAT,NARI - Community based organizations - Private organizations - FAO - CTA How information needs are currently met, - Journal articles, briefing/summaries, Abstracts, - - and from where and whom materials suitable for mass distribution, Visual or pictorial information Main information needs not satisfied Technical information

Name of Institution Gambia College Objective/mission statement - Middle level manpower training in key essential social and development services - Enter to learn ready to serve. Field of specialization - Education- Teacher Training - Agriculture, Livestock and rural development- Training - Nursing and Midwifery- Training - Public and Environmental Health- Training Number of staff (professional, clerical, technical etc) - 67 Lecturers and 43 support staff Branches, other sites - School of Education - School of Agriculture - School of Nursing and Midwifery - School of Public and Environmental Health Annual budget €403,278 or D12,3000,000.00 Source of funding, including main donors/sponsors Government Programme/project undertaken - Networking of all computers - Introduction of basic computing in all programmes Target audience (plus number actual or estimated) - Primary and Secondary Schools- open days - Farmers and Rural communities- Field days - Public, communities- Visits and Media Extent of interaction with CTA-Spore magazine, - Spore-Magazine SDI, QAS, DORA, seminars consultant publications - CTA Publication Extent of collaboration/interaction with institutions - Reference materials provision:Novo (name nature) Scotia Agricultural College- Canada through CDA,-Gambia Horse and Donkey Trust, CTA, National Research Institutes How information needs are currently met, and from - CTA Bulletins where and whom - Meetings with beneficiaries - Internet - Text books Journal,text books, internet - Abstracts - Visual or pictorial information Main information needs not satisfied - Farm problems, technical information and economic information

Name of Institution University of The Gambia Objective/mission statement To provide the human Resource base required to develop the county natural resources in a sustainable manner and provide suitable quality education to prepare students for studies a Bachelor, Masters Phd levels. Field of specialization - Agriculture and Rural Development - Medicine - French Language - History Number of staff (professional, clerical, technical etc) - 84 full time - 60 part time Branches, other sites - Agriculture - Social Science - Economic and Management - Science and Technology - Medicine - Law Annual budget €1,016,692.60 or D31,009,120.44 Source of funding, including main donors/sponsors Government, Grants and through Consultancies. Programme/project undertaken None Target audience (plus number actual or estimated) - Students from different disciplines - Contacts are Letters, Telephone and Media Extent of interaction with CTA-Spore magazine, CTA Publication SDI, QAS, DORA, seminars consultant publications Extent of collaboration/interaction with institutions - Tertiary Institutions in The Gambia viz (name nature) Gambia College, Gambia Technical Training Institute, The Management Development Institutes - - St Mary College, Maryland, St Mary University- Halifax, Novo Scotia, Tomas Bata University, National Taipe University of Technology How information needs are currently met, and from - Internet where and whom - Personal collection, textbooks, journals, Videos - DVDs Main information needs not satisfied - Technical information, farm problems, economic information

Name of Institution Department of Community Development Objective/mission statement To enhance and promote the participation of people in charting their destinies through participatory development process Field of specialization - Training field extension workers - Facilitation and capacity building of Community Based Organizations and Extension Workers - Skills training for women, youth groups etc. Number of staff (professional, clerical, technical etc) - 300 Professional and Technical staff - 30 Support staff Branches, other sites Annual budget €163,934.42 Source of funding, including main donors/sponsors - Government - Project: African Development Bank and World Bank Programme/project undertaken - Computer and Internet training Target audience (plus number actual or estimated) Rural farming population Extent of interaction with CTA-Spore magazine, None SDI, QAS, DORA, seminars consultant publications Extent of collaboration/interaction with institutions - All Government Departments (name nature) - African Development Bank - World Bank - UNDP-allEx-com agencies How information needs are currently met, and from - Journals, internet, text books where and whom - Field Extension Reports - M & E Periodic Reports Main information needs not satisfied Technical information (rural development)

Name of Institution Women Bureau Objective/mission statement Improve the quality of life of all Gambians particularly women through the elimination of forms of gender inequality by concrete gender in development Field of specialization Gender-Women empowerment operational sing the National Policy for the Advancement of Gambian Women 1999- 2009 with stake holders Number of staff (professional, clerical, technical etc) - 32 staff – 7 programme officers and 2 coordinators. Branches, other sites Brikama, Mansakonko, Kerewn, Janjanbureh, Basse and Kanifing Annual budget €32,786.88 D1,000,000 Source of funding, including main donors/sponsors - Government - UNICEF, UNDP, UNFPA Programme/project undertaken Scan ICT Project, ICT Policy development for The Gambia and CICI Training-Kigali Rwanda Target audience (plus number actual or estimated) National Women Council, Women’Association, Civil Society Organizations, NGOs, Government- Reached through quarterly meetings, yearly reviews and planning meetings Extent of interaction with CTA-Spore magazine, - Spore Magazine SDI, QAS, DORA, seminars consultant publications - CTA Publication Extent of collaboration/interaction with institutions Sourcing information from:National (name nature) Agricultural Research Institutes (Nerica Project) National Agricultural Development Agency UNDP, UNFPA, UNICEF and the ECOWAS Gender and Development Centre International Research Institutes (ICRISAT) Gender Development Centre of ECOWAS International Labour Office ActionAid International How information needs are currently met, and from University Research Papers where and whom visual and pictorial information

Main information needs not satisfied - Technical information, Economic information - Materials in Appropriate Languages

Name of Institution The Association of Non-Governmental Organizations (TANGO) Objective/mission statement 1. Mission - to contribute to national poverty reduction efforts by expanding membership and improving services to members in a cost- effectives and financially sustainable manner. 2. Objective - Member NGOs supported to deliver effective and relevant and sustainable services in a participatory way 3. - External communication within the network of NGOs improved and link between TANGO members facilitated. Field of specialization TANGO assist NGOs to serve Gambian communities to come together so that they become capable of participating in national and international activities decision making process that affect the lives of its members and their beneficiaries. Number of staff (professional, clerical, technical etc) 13 professional staff, 4 clerical and 2 support staff Branches, other sites Annual budget €28,918.03 or D882,000 Source of funding, including main donors/sponsors Membership fees Programme/project undertaken None Target audience (plus number actual or estimated) NGOs CBO and CSO - Contacts-Annual General Meetings(AGM) - Annual progress and financial reports from members - Quarterly and Annual Reports to members Extent of interaction with CTA-Spore magazine, Spore Magazine SDI, QAS, DORA, seminars consultant publications CTA Publication Extent of collaboration/interaction with institutions Sourcing information from NGOs, CBOs and CSOs (name nature) Government Ministries and Departments, EU/EC CTA, The UN System and Department of Planning How information needs are currently met, and from Personal collections, media, Internet where and whom Abstracts, text books Main information needs not satisfied Technical and economic information (Materials suitable for distribution Material in appropriate languages Visual or pictorial information)

Name of Institution World View The Gambia Objective/mission statement To give a vote to the Disadvantaged, under-privileged and vulnerable members of society with opportunity to voice their concerns through participatory communication Field of specialization Communication Number of staff (professional, clerical, technical etc) - Professional 6, Technical 4, Clerical 4, Project staff 3 and Volunteers 2 Branches, other sites Kerewan Annual budget €65,575.77 or D2,000,000 Source of funding, including main donors/sponsors Media Production-National and International Partners Programme/project undertaken - Training of Community Radio Personnel - Provision of digital equipment to community radios Target audience (plus number actual or estimated) Women and Youths through direct linkages at community level. Extent of interaction with CTA-Sore magazine, Spore Magazine SDI, QAS, DORA, seminars consultant publications Extent of collaboration/interaction with institutions - Department of State for Basic and (name nature) Secondary Education - The UN System - Department of Information - The Gambia Tourism Authority - Concern Universal - ActionAid the Gambia - Regional - OSIWA, ECOWAS Gender Development Centre, AWARE, ANCEFA How information needs are currently met, and from - ECOWAS national and research where and whom institutes - Newspapers - Personal collections - Electronic media - Meeting with beneficiaries - Internet Main information needs not satisfied Technical information( Materials suitable for mass distribution Materials in appropriate languages)

Name of institution National Farmers Platform The Gambia(NFPG)

Objective/mission statement - A sustainable productive agricultural sector with farmers taking the role in decision making - To constitute a credible and acceptable framework which will genuinely cater for the general interest of farmers Field of specialization - Adult literacy and numeracy - Group management training - Information Communication Technology - Advocacy

Number of staff (professional clerical 4 technical etc Branches other sites Regional and District Offices Annual budget €20,000 Source of funding including main donors Action Aid The Gambia, GICAP, DOSA sponsors Programme/ project undertaken Advocacy, Adult literacy, Group management training, Information Communication Technology Target audience (plus number, actual or Grass root members(farmers in the rural areas ) estimated Extent of interaction with CTA-Spore None magazine ,SDI, QAS, seminars, consultants, publications Extent of collaboration interaction with other - VECO Senegal, institutions (name, nature - Regional farmer network (ROPPA) - Capacity reinforcement (AAITG,CRS) - Farmer empowerment (DOSA) - Institutional support (CNCR) How information needs are currently met, Radio, Newspaper, NARI, Internet and from where and whom Main information needs not satisfied Farm problems, economic information

Name of Institution Gambia Horticultural Enterprises Objective/mission statement An Agri-Business Enterprise geared towards Agricultural and Socio-Economic Development in The Gambia. Field of specialization - Dealers in agricultural inputs, machinery - Producers and exporters of fresh fruit and vegetables - Agro-food processors - Providers of Agricultural market/information

Number of staff (professional, clerical, technical etc) -Professional 5, Technical 8, clerical 7 and support staff 6 Branches, other sites Annual budget €131,147.51 or D4,000,000.00 Source of funding, including main donors/sponsors - Local Banks - MISTOWA- USAID - Own fund Programme/project undertaken - MISTOWA-market information system for traders and organizations in West Africa Target audience (plus number actual or estimated) Farmers, NGOs and private operators Contacts- Telephones, Internet and shops Extent of interaction with CTA-Spore magazine, Spore magazine SDI, QAS, DORA, seminars consultant publications Extent of collaboration/interaction with institutions IFDC, African Food Seed Trade (name nature) Association(AFSTA), CTA Ministry of Agriculture COLEACP and ITC How information needs are currently met, and from Internet where and whom Meetings with Beneficiaries Trade Fairs and Exhibitions Journal articles Briefing/Seminars

Main information needs not satisfied Economic and economic information, materials suitable for mass distribution

Name of Institution Information Technology Association of the Gambia Objective/mission statement The Information Technology Association of The Gambia (ITAG) is the premier and pioneer association for information and communication technology (ICT) industry, professional and enthusiasts in The Gambia Field of specialization - Advocacy and Partnership - Business Opportunities and Development - Research - Publication Number of staff (professional, clerical, technical etc) - 5 Volunteers-executive members Branches, other sites Annual budget €10,000 Source of funding, including main donors/sponsors - Membership Fees Programme/project undertaken None Target audience (plus number actual or estimated) - Print Ads on newspapers - Websites - Mailing lists Extent of interaction with CTA-Spore magazine, None SDI, QAS, DORA, seminars consultant publications Extent of collaboration/interaction with institutions DOSCIT-regulation of IT services (name nature) How information needs are currently met, and from Internet, journals, personal communication where and whom Main information needs not satisfied Economic information Funding Sources

ANNEX 4: LIST OF PERSONS MET

No NAME OF INSTITUTES ADDRESS TELEPHONE

1 Abdoulie Bojang Agricultural Communication Division 9998607 2 Adelete Sosseh World View, The Gambia 4496990 3 Ebriama Bandeh GAMTEL 9960049 4 Papa Yusupha Njie ITAG 7768400 5 Cherno Jallow Freelance Journalist, 6 Amadou Gaye Gambia Consumer Protection Association 9887007 7 Sidi Jarju SPFS-DOSA 9900500 8 Ebriama Camara DOSA 9963039 9 Momodou A. Ceesay GHE 9903058 10 Seringe Faye GRTS 9965035 11 Jero Maane Department of Planning-NADA 9937822 12 Ebriama Cham Department of Planning-NADA 7716825 13 Fafanding Fatajo Department of Planning-NADA 9908793 14 Ousainou Jorberteh Department of Community Development 9961611 15 Ida Faye Hydra Women’ Bureau 9922071 16 Kajally Sonko Women’s Bureau 9906527 17 Alhagie Cham TANGO 9936835 18 Alieu Badara Senghore Gambia College 19 Omar Touray NAOSU 9920617 20 Jenung Maane University of The Gambia 9917098 21 Sheriff Sanyng Farmer’s Platform, The Gambia 9906740 22 Ebriama Jobe DOSCIT 7796710 23 Lamin Camara DOCIT 24 Falankoi Janneh NARI 25 Lmin Jobe NARI 9935283 26 Ousman Sillah Gambia Press Union 9953212 27 Lamin Dampha DOSTIE

ANNEX 5. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Action Aid The Gambia. 2003. The Private Sector and Food Production in The Gambia.

DOSA. Various Years (1991-2006). National Agricultural Sample Survey (NASS), Department of Planning, DOSA.

FAO/GOTG. 1997. The National Agricultural Research System of The Gambia, Analysis and Strategy for the Long Term, Final Report

FAO. 2004. The Gambia Food Security and Agricultural Development – Horizon 2015 – Summary National Strategy (Draft), June, 2004).

GOTG / DOSA. 2006.Draft Policy Framework for the Agriculture and Natural Resources Sector of the Gambia.

GOTG. 1996. The Gambia Incorporated Vision 2020.

GOTG/UNECA. 2004. National Information and Communication Infrastructure (NICI) Policy and Plans for The Gambia. African Information Society Initiative

GOTG. 2002. Strategy for Poverty Alleviation (SPAII), (PRSP).

GOTG/DOSA and DOSNRE. 2002. Agriculture and Natural Resources Sector Public Expenditure Review.

GOTG. 2000. 1998 Household Poverty Survey Report.

NGO Affairs Agency. 2000. NGO Directory for The Gambia.

Public Utilities and Regulatory Authority (PURA). 2006. Annual Report

TANGO. 2002. Directory of NGOs in The Gambia. TANGO

UN Non-Governmental Liaison Service. 2000. Information and Communication Technologies. Voices From Africa 9. Un- Non-Governmental Liaison Service

World Bank. 2003. The Gambia Development Policy Review, Challenges Ahead: Obstacles and Opportunities.

World Bank. 2005. ICTs at a Glance, The Gambia.

Website: agrigambia.gm