The IEC Unit of National Agricultural Development Agency (NADA), in collaboration with GRTS, on Wednesday held a one-day communication strategy development workshop on food security.

The objectives of the workshop are to develop a comprehensive communication work plan for the agency as well as to develop a strategy for public awareness creation on the objectives, mission and vision of NADA.

The forum, held at The Gambia Multimedia Telecommunication Institute (GTMI) in Kanifing, was attended by various stakeholders in the agriculture sector as well as the media.

Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Abdourahman Jobe, deputy permanent secretary at the Department of State for Agriculture, said that the agriculture sector is facing formidable challenges world-wide. He stressed the need for Gambians to respond to the call made by the president for people to go back to the land to ensure food security. He recognised the vital role media can play in the dissemination of agricultural messages to farmers. “Information and communication are essential in agricultural development,” he said.

Bakary Sonko, Director General of NADA, described the forum as very important. He added that the strategy would be used to inform and educate the general public about the implementation of the NADA act. He also called on the media to be proactive in disseminating the right messages to the farmers.

Dr Katim Touray, chairman of NADA, called for more partnership between various stakeholders in the agricultural sector.

Other speakers include the president of farmer’s platform Musa Jawneh who welcomed the development of the communication strategy.