Gunjur, West Coast Region – The Nyamina Community Forest in Gunjur on Saturday, 17th August hosted a highly successful indigenous tree planting exercise, an event that highlighted the community's commitment to environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
Spearheaded by the Gunjur Youth Movement, in collaboration with the Nyamina Community Forest and Janneh Koto, the initiative brought together a wide range of partners, including the ST Foundation, Support Our Own Gambian Foundation, the Forestry Department, ITT Gambia, and GEPADG (Gunjur Environmental Protection and Development Group) and Department of Parks and Wildlife.
The event drew significant support from various local and regional leaders and celebrity with notable figures such as ST Brikama Boyo, Director of GEPADG Badara N. Bajo and Gunjur Ward Councillor Hon. Momodou Charreh Gibba making their presence felt by personally planting trees. Their participation underscored the importance of such initiatives in combating deforestation, promoting reforestation, and building climate resilience within local communities.
The tree planting exercise was more than just a symbolic gesture; it was a concerted effort by the community to restore and protect their natural environment through planting of indigenous trees some of which are natural herbs . As deforestation and environmental degradation continue to threaten ecosystems globally, local actions such as these play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity and mitigating the effects of climate change.
The Gunjur Youth Movement, which has been a strong advocate for environmental protection, took the lead in organising and coordinating the event. Their efforts reflect the growing awareness and involvement of youth in Gunjur in critical environmental issues, inspiring hope for future generations.
Speaking to Gunjuronline, Musa Bojang, the PRO of Gunjur Youth Movement, underscored the importance of planting indigenous trees. Highlighting the critical need for this initiative, Mr Bojang expressed concerns over the rarity and disappearance of indigenous trees in the area. On the importance of providing more food sources for local wildlife, and the vital role these trees play in the ecosystem, Mr Bojang said he could not overemphasise the significance of planting trees, pointing out their crucial role in supporting the tourism industry and providing essential traditional herbs.
On potential consequences of not having these trees, Mr Bojang recalls a past tornado incident that caused damage to housing and livelihoods in Gunjur and neighbouring areas, illustrating the urgent need to plant trees for restoration and protection.
For his part, Ward Councillor Hon. Gibba told Gunjuronline:
“Trees give us oxygen that we need to live. The local government, especially the BAC, is working hard to plant trees in many areas from Kalagi to Kartong. They have programs for tree planting every year. They are partnering with groups like the Gunjur Youth Movement.”
On what his council is doing to promote environmental protection through tree planting, Counciloor Gibba continued: “BAC is partnering with Falcons FC for planting coconut trees at Gunjur beach. The council is also involved in tree planting in Foni.“
Partners such as ST Foundation and Support Our Own Gambian Foundation played a pivotal role by providing resources and logistical support, ensuring that the event was a success. The Forestry Department, Department of Parks and Wildlife, alongside ITT Gambia and GEPADG, brought technical expertise and guidance, helping to ensure that the trees were planted in a manner that would maximise their chances of survival and growth.
The Nyamina Community Forest, a vital ecological asset for Gunjur, was an ideal location for this exercise. Its preservation is essential not only for the local community but also for the wider West Coast Region, as it contributes to the protection of water sources, the promotion of wildlife habitats, and the reduction of carbon emissions.
The attendances of Forestry Department, Department of Parks and Wildlife, GEPADG Director Bajo, ST Brikama Boyo and Honorable Councilor Gibba is a strong endorsement of the initiative, demonstrating the importance of collaboration between government officials, local communities, and civil society organisations in addressing environmental challenges. By planting their own trees, they set an example for others to follow, encouraging wider participation in future conservation efforts.
The success of this tree planting exercise is a testament to what can be achieved when communities unite for a common cause. It highlights the power of grassroots movements, local partnerships, and the collective will to protect the environment. Gunjur Youth Movement has been at the forefront of environmental protection in Gunjur for several years under the leadership of Sulayman Bojang.
As the trees planted today grow and flourish, they will stand as living symbols of the commitment of the people of Gunjur and their partners to safeguarding their environment for future generations. The Gunjur Youth Movement, Nyamina Community Forest, Janneh Koto, and all the partners deserve commendation for their tireless efforts. This event serves as a reminder that every tree planted today brings us one step closer to a greener and more sustainable future.
This tree planting initiative not only strengthens Gunjur’s environmental resilience but also fosters a sense of community responsibility and pride. With continued efforts like this, the Nyamina Community Forest will remain a beacon of conservation and sustainability, inspiring others to take similar steps in their own regions.
The message is clear: through collaboration and shared purpose, communities can lead the way in the fight against climate change and environmental degradation, ensuring a healthier planet for generations to come.
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