A transformative agricultural project led by South Carolina State University is bringing renewed hope and productivity to approximately 400 women farmers in The Gambia. The university’s Public Service and Agriculture (SC State PSA) division has successfully implemented a modern, solar-powered water system, directly addressing the severe water shortages that have long hampered the Illiassa Women Garden Kafo community.
Overcoming Water Scarcity: How 400 Farmers Benefit from New Solar-Powered Well in Gambia
For over twenty years, the women of Illiassa have contended with immense challenges to cultivate their community garden. Saffiatou Jammeh, one of the farmers, recounted the daily struggle against failing wells and deteriorating equipment, which made irrigation an arduous task. The lack of reliable water access severely limited crop production, placing their livelihoods at risk. “The benefit wasn’t coming due to the water shortage,” Jammeh explained, noting that the low yields even led her husband to suggest she stop gardening altogether.
A Solar-Powered Transformation for 400 Farmers Benefit from New Solar-Powered Well in Gambia
The new infrastructure represents a significant technological leap forward. The project, officially titled “Cultivating Productivity and Resilience to Mitigate Food Insecurity in The Gambia,” was initiated after a 2021 needs assessment spearheaded by Dr. Lamin Drammeh, a Gambian native and SC State PSA coordinator. Funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the system features a central well and pump powered by 12 solar power units. This clean energy solution distributes water to a network of 49 concrete reservoirs, including 10 newly constructed and 39 renovated tanks, each holding 30,000 liters. The initiative also provided essential tools like buckets and watering cans to facilitate distribution.
The impact has been immediate and profound. Jammeh reports a dramatic increase in her harvests. “When we had limited water, I used to have about six bags of onions. Now, with this new system, I can have double or even more,” she said. The reliable water supply allows for more frequent irrigation, boosting yields and easing the physical burden on the farmers.
Future Needs and Continued Partnership for 400 Farmers Benefit from New Solar-Powered Well in Gambia
This collaboration between SC State, The Gambia’s National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI), and the Ministry of Agriculture marks a vital step in enhancing regional food security. While celebrating the success, local partners have identified further needs. A NARI representative, Jallow, highlighted the necessity for a storage facility to preserve perishable vegetables and small power tillers to move beyond manual labor. Expressing his gratitude, Jallow said, “To the people of South Carolina, the government of the U.S., and South Carolina State University, I want to say thank you very much. This is a rare thing for us to have something of this magnitude.” The project not only improves agricultural output but also empowers women farmers, creating a more resilient and prosperous community.
Sources
- How NGOs Like Aqua Maya Are Helping Improve Water Access in …
- South Carolina State University and the Univers…
- SC State helps 400 women farmers with solar water system in The …
- SC State PSA in The Gambia
- IBSA Fund Annual Report 2024 – UNOSSC
