By: Momodou Gagigo
In an effort to resolve decades-old conflicts between crop farmers and cattle herders, the Fulbe Africa Association has launched an ambitious “smart farming” revolution that marries Fulani cultural heritage with cutting-edge agricultural technology.
The initiative directly addresses the root cause of rural tension in The Gambia: roaming cattle that destroy farmland during the rainy season. By introducing modern livestock management techniques, the association aims to keep herds healthy and productive without encroaching on farmers’ fields.
Central to the project is the Fulani proverb “Pulloh ko Nageh andirra” – “A Fulani is known by his cow” – underscoring that cattle are not just economic assets but core to cultural identity. Rather than abandoning transhumance traditions, Fulbe Africa is modernizing them.
Over the weekend, two Gambian herdsmen, Muhammed Bah and Jamori Bah, departed Banjul International Airport for the Netherlands, where they will undergo intensive training in climate-smart livestock breeding, pasture management, feed formulation, and water conservation techniques. Upon return, they will train hundreds of breeders across the country.
“This is about preserving our heritage while securing our future,” said Musa Baldeh, President of Fulbe Africa. “Climate change is making grazing routes unpredictable and water scarce. We must adapt, not abandon who we are. This program is open to all Gambians – Mandinka, Wolof, Jola, Sarahule – because food security belongs to everyone.”
Ebrima Jallow, Principal Livestock Officer at the Department of Livestock Services, praised the initiative, noting it perfectly complements the government’s National Agricultural Transformation Agenda. “Fulbeh Africa is showing leadership where it matters most. We urge them to scale this nationwide,” he said.
Jamori Bah, one of the beneficiaries, promised to share every lesson learned. “This is a dream. I will come back and teach my community so we never again fight over destroyed crops,” he said before boarding.
Founded over ten years ago, Fulbe Africa has promoted the Pulaar language and culture while building bridges between ethnic groups. With this smart-farming push, the association is now positioning itself as a major force in Gambia’s agricultural modernization and rural peace-building efforts.
