In a bold step toward transforming The Gambia’s livestock industry, President Adama Barrow’s administration has procured 25 pregnant Brown Swiss cows and two bulls from France.
The high-yield dairy cattle, acquired through ANIPL-Senegal, are expected to revolutionize milk production and enhance the local dairy sector under the Programme for Accelerated Community Development (PACD).
The fully government-funded initiative is part of a broader strategy to modernize the dairy industry and improve access to superior cattle and goat breeds for Gambian farmers.
By introducing these high-yield animals, the government aims to strengthen the productivity of local breeds and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
During an inspection of the newly imported cattle at the West Africa Livestock Innovation Centre (WALIC), President Barrow expressed confidence in the project’s potential to elevate the country’s livestock sector and contribute to economic growth.
“The trial stage of this project will drive meaningful progress in the livestock sector and further strengthen the country’s economy,” President Barrow stated.
He further revealed that the imported cattle would be distributed to master farmers—those equipped with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary for effective cattle rearing. The initiative is expected to boost milk production and provide long-term benefits to farmers and the wider economy.
The livestock initiative is a crucial part of the government’s long-term strategy to revitalize the cattle industry, supporting national development efforts and reducing reliance on imported dairy products. By investing in improved cattle breeds, the government is demonstrating its commitment to agricultural modernization and food security.
The PACD, launched in April 2020, is a flagship initiative of the Gambian government. It is implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and coordinated by the Department of Strategic Policy and Delivery (DSPD) under the Ministry of Public Service, Administrative Reforms, Policy Coordination, and Delivery.
With this investment in high-quality livestock, The Gambia is taking a significant step toward self-sufficiency in dairy production, ensuring that farmers have the resources to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economic growth.
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