Agriculture and road infrastructure were the centre of discussions during President Adama Barrow’s first general meeting of the annual tour at Maka Balla Manneh in the North Bank Region (NBR).
On concerns raised, various speakers urged the government to give priority to constructing motorable feeder roads in remote communities.
The Gambian leader promised Macca Balla Manneh and other communities in the Nuimis and Jokadou of good road networks.
Outlining his government’s plans, the President said the development of NBR is part of his administration’s priority.
Regarding concerns over the price of fertiliser and other agricultural inputs, the government has subsidised the sum of D1,850 from the price of fertilizer, reducing the cost from D2,950 to D1,100.
Also, some 1143 metric tons of fertilizer were distributed at no cost to farmers across the country in 2025/2026 cropping season.
To further enhance agricultural production, close to 237 metric tons of certified rice seeds and 184 metric tons of certified maize seeds were equally distributed to farmers at no cost to them.
On concerns raised over the new mode of post-harvest digital payment, the President said is it as a result of the new regulatory framework to ensure accountability and prevent mismanagement of funds. He guaranteed farmers multiple choices and timely payment in the upcoming trade season.
On Women’s economic employment, women in North Bank Region has benefited from D2,800,000 disbursement from 2021 till date, providing two thousand and twenty five (2,025) women in the region to access the government’s Women Enterprises Fund initiated to empower the women and families.
President Barrow took pride in establishing the Ministry of Gender. He pledged to continue the initiative and construct gardens to boost their economic prospects.
President Barrow reaffirmed his government’s commitment to improving lives and livelihoods.
