The project, according to officials, is being funded by Wings Over Wetland and Wetland International, in collaboration with the Department of Parks and Wildlife Management.

Addressing the meeting, Mrs. Ndey Bakurin, the Executive Director of the National Environment Agency (NEA), expressed delight for being accorded the opportunity to attend the forum.

She described the meeting as another milestone in the history of the existing trans-boundary project, shared by the Gambia and Senegal.

According to her, the joint implementation of WOW Project clearly demonstrates the commitment of the two countries’ resolve to manage and protect ‘our share nature and biological resources’.

NEA boss further stated that the third steering committee meeting would equip participants to nurture the goodwill of a government and its people.She noted that the meeting should make them further tighten their belts not only towards the successful implementation of the project, but to also jointly face the challenges of the contemporary world as it relates to natural conservation.

“As member of the steering committee and conservation authority the challenges are real as resources continue to dwindle in the face of increasing poverty and demand for improved livelihood,” she added.

For his part, Mr. Bounama Dieye, the Coordinator of Niumi –Saloum Project underscored the significance achievements made by the WOW project, particularly within the framework of Niumi National Park.

This project, he revealed, has successfully mobilised communities around the park, most of whom, he said willingly participate in the management of parks.

He further added that the project has also conducted a series of capacity enhancement training for both departments, and most importantly, maintains the parks’ headquarter.

He finally appealed for the timely disbursement of funds, provision of mobility, among others, while commending all those who have devoted their valuable time to the success of the programme.