In a bid to improve agricultural productivity in the country, the government of the Gambia have leased a plot of land measuring 265 hectares to the Gambia Investment Promotion and Free Zone Agency (GIPFZA) for investment opportunities.

Of the total number of 265 hectares situated between Pirang and Kuloro, 200 is been allocated to makfood company, a joint venture between M.A Kharafi and Farm fruits of Netherlands to embark on agricultural project specifically on onions and Irish potato cultivation.

Speaking at the handing over ceremony held at the Governor’s office in Western Region, Mr. Mohammed Nagaty, M.A Kharafi area manager in the Gambia said this project would focus on the cultivation of Irish potato and onions.

He added that storage facilities would be provided to keep excess produce for future use. He also revealed that work at the site would commence early next week and thus create employment opportunities for the youths within the communities of Pirang and Kuloro.

For his part, Mr. Kebba T. Njie, Chief Executive Officer of GIPFZA described agriculture as the backbone of the country’s economy. “We should appreciate the implementation of this project by such a company like makfood”, he said.

According to the GIPFZA boss, this commitment is in line with supporting President Jammeh’s operation back to the land call.

He went further to reveal that plans are on the way to compensate those persons affected by the leasing of the land. “That is going to be handled by the government”, he assured.

Hon. Lamin Bojang, National Assembly Member for the area and Chief Basiru Jarju all appealed to M.A Kharafi to consider employing the women and youths of the area.

The meeting was chaired by Abdou Badjie, Governor of Western Region.