By Aja Beyai
CASA Gambia, a non-profit organization dedicated to environmental sustainability, youth empowerment, and community development, hosted a unique event on Saturday, titled “My Education, My Tree – Growing Together.” The day-long initiative have seen tree planting activities at Bijilo Lower Basic School, followed by Sukuta, Wullingkama, and Brufut Lower Basic Schools.
The event aims to promote environmental sustainability through tree planting, not only in schools but also in students’ homes. By fostering a sense of ownership among the student beneficiaries, the initiative hopes to ensure the long-term care and continuity of the trees. CASA Gambia believes that the initiative will also provide sustainable, long-term economic benefits through future fruit harvests, natural shade, and improved school environments.
Beyond the planting itself, the “My Education, My Tree – Growing Together” campaign seeks to deliver climate education, instilling awareness and responsibility in students from an early age. The organization hopes that by empowering the next generation to become stewards of the environment, they can create a more sustainable future for The Gambia.
Ousainou Gambia spoke on climate change awareness, highlighting how Gambia’s once-abundant forests and fertile land led to a comfortable life. “ Not long ago In The Gambia, the forest was thick, the land was very fertile, agriculture became so productive, then we had abundant food, food was not a problem, we were living in a very conducive life and livelihood.”
However, climate change has drastically altered this. Deforestation, driven by human actions, has depleted the forest, making it difficult to see the wild trees that once thrived. This has impacted agriculture, leading to a decline in food production and reliance on imported rice.
Ebrima Jatta, Executive Director of CASA Gambia, highlights a school sponsorship program that aims to support students and promote environmental awareness. The program provides uniforms, sponsors 20 students per school annually, and encourages tree planting to combat climate change. The initiative involves collaboration with teachers and parents to identify deserving students and foster positive habits like punctuality and book care.
