The Taiwanese Technical Mission (TTM) in The Gambia, on Friday organized a demonstration on compost making and covering materials, for members of Banjulinding Women Farmers Association, at the Banjulinding Horticultural Garden, Kombo North.

Speaking at the demonstration exercise, Jerry Liao, a horticulturalist and a member of TTM, said the training is crucial, for it enabled farmers to manage their crops in order to maximize harvest.

According to him, there are many ways to make compost, saying “in The Gambia, the locally known products are the poultry manure, peanut shell, cow dung, and rice hull, among others.

The cow dung decomposes early, compared to others. He told the women farmers that it takes few months before it’s ready for application. “The main idea of the compost application is to enrich soil fertility,” he added.

Kevin Liao, another Taiwanese horticulturist, emphasized that the TTM, stressed the importance of organic compost application to a poor soil, adding that this enriches soil fertility. He then called on the women to make the best use of the material, for they could be found in the country, in abundance.

Delivering the vote of thanks, Kadesa Sambou, Banjulinding Women Farmers Association, commended the TTM and the Taiwanese government for their gesture, noting that the Taiwanese are true friends of The Gambia.

She pointed out that the demonstration was another step in the right direction, saying “it came at a time, when most of the farmers were preparing to plant their crops. I wish to note that the development of agriculture in the country is a collective responsibility”. The women leader then called on donor agencies to help women farmers in order to meet some of their needs.

Other speakers at the ceremony included, Amie Bojang, Secretary-General of the Association, among others. The day-long demonstration was also attended by women farmers in Banjulinding.