By Fatou Sillah
Agriculture Minister Demba Sabally has announced a series of reforms aimed at modernizing livestock migration in The Gambia and minimizing recurring disputes between herders and farmers.
Speaking before the National Assembly in response to recommendations from the Joint Committee on Agriculture and Environment, Minister Sabally underscored that transhumance—the seasonal movement of livestock—is not inherently problematic. Instead, he attributed persistent tensions to the absence of a national policy, insufficient infrastructure, and weak regulatory frameworks.
“Transhumance is not the problem. It is a vital practice for our nation’s food security and rural economy. The problem, as accurately diagnosed, is the historic lack of a coherent policy, inadequate infrastructure, and weak regulatory mechanisms,” he said.
He reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to transforming the sector into a driver of sustainable development rather than conflict. Among the initiatives currently underway are the formulation of a national transhumance policy in collaboration with international partners such as the International Organization for Migration, the creation of pasture development zones, the construction of water reservoirs, and the introduction of livestock tagging and traceability systems to strengthen disease control and security.
Minister Sabally also stressed the importance of community engagement, noting that the ministry will work closely with traditional authorities to foster local mediation, support women’s farming groups with seeds, irrigation, and insurance schemes, and promote environmental sustainability through controlled grazing, rotational systems, and reforestation campaigns.
“The path forward is clear,” he told lawmakers. “The implementation of these recommendations requires a whole-of-government approach and, crucially, the continued partnership, support, and oversight of this National Assembly. We will require legislative support and budgetary allocation to turn these plans into reality. My ministry is prepared to lead this effort with commitment and urgency. We owe it to our farmers, our herders, and all Gambians to ensure that this vital economic activity becomes a source of national prosperity and unity, rather than conflict.”