Growing Futures: How Compost is Empowering Gambian Women

As the first rays of sunlight paint the sky over Darsilami, The Gambia, a symphony of activity fills the air. In the community garden, a diverse group gathers, their lives intertwined by an innovative World Food Programme (WFP) initiative that's redefining food security and empowerment in this West African nation.

Jallo Bayo, a smallholder farmer and mother of four, carefully inspects a bed of enormous onions. "Subhanallah (Glory be to God)!" she exclaims, her colourful hijab bright against the green foliage. "Last year, I harvested only 120 kilos from this plot. This season, thanks to Allah and the compost training, I've already gathered 503 kilos – and I still have four beds to go!"

The secret behind this agricultural miracle? A deceptively simple technique introduced by WFP: compost production. Through targeted training and support, WFP has empowered women like Fatou to create their own organic fertiliser, dramatically boosting crop yields and transforming their economic prospects.

Wally Jallow, Regional Coordinator for the Agency for the Development of Women and Children (ADWAC), beams with pride as he surveys the garden.

 "The impact is staggering," he explains. "Across our 16 community gardens in the Central River and Upper River Regions, we've seen average yields increase by 40%. But the numbers only tell part of the story."

Indeed, the project's impact ripples far beyond improved harvests. Jallo pauses from her work to share her experience. 

"Before, I struggled to feed my children nutritious meals," she confides. "Now, not only can I provide better food for my family, but I've started a small business selling excess produce. With the extra income, I've enrolled in adult literacy classes. I'm learning to read and write – at my age!" 

She laughs, her eyes sparkling with newfound confidence.

The project hasn't been without its challenges. "Initially, some were sceptical about the new techniques," admits Wally. "We had to overcome decades of traditional farming practices. But by working closely with community leaders and demonstrating results in small pilot plots, we gradually won people over."

Bubacarr Njie, a WFP Engineer, nods in agreement. "Sustainability is key," he emphasises. "We're not just teaching composting; we're building a holistic system. Our Home-Grown School Feeding Programme now sources vegetables directly from these gardens, creating a reliable market for the farmers."

A headmaster of the nearby school attests to the program's impact.

 "The change in our students is remarkable," he says. "With fresh, local vegetables in their meals, attendance and concentration have improved significantly. We're seeing better academic performance across the board."

The environmental benefits are equally impressive. "By eliminating chemical fertilizers, we're protecting our soil and water resources," explains Bubacarr. "The compost also helps retain moisture, making our crops more resilient to the increasingly unpredictable rainfall patterns we're experiencing due to climate change."

As the morning progresses, 18-year-old Fatumata joins the group. A recent high school graduate, she represents the project's potential to inspire the next generation. 

"Seeing the success of these women has changed my perspective on agriculture," she says enthusiastically. "I'm planning to study agribusiness at university. I want to help modernize our farming practices and create opportunities for other young people in our community."

The impact on gender dynamics hasn't gone unnoticed. "This project has given women a stronger voice in community decision-making," notes Wally. "They're not just feeding their families; they're contributing significantly to household incomes. It's shifting perceptions about women's capabilities and their role in society."

As the group stands together, surrounded by the fruits of their collective labor, the air is thick with optimism. In this garden, they see more than just vegetables – they see the seeds of a green revolution, one that promises to nourish both the land and its people for generations to come.

"This is just the beginning," Fatou declares, her voice filled with determination. "With Allah's blessing and the knowledge we've gained, we can overcome any challenge. We are not just growing food; we are growing a better future for The Gambia."

The story of Darsilami is being replicated across the country. To date, WFP's compost production initiative has trained over 5,000 farmers, 70% of whom are women. Household incomes among participants have increased by an average of 35%, while malnutrition rates in participating communities have dropped by 22%.

As the sun climbs higher, casting its warm glow over the thriving garden, one thing becomes clear: in The Gambia, a quiet revolution is taking root – one handful of compost at a time.