By Ebrima Mbaye
In a significant step toward fostering sustainable agriculture and environmental consciousness among students, Ecosoil Africa, in collaboration with Shelter for Life International, donated high-yielding cashew trees and premium organic fertilizer to Charles Jaw Memorial Academy Upper and Senior School in Bundung on Tuesday. The initiative, held on the school’s premises, is part of a broader effort to integrate organic farming and agroforestry into educational settings.
The donation ceremony marked the launch of a joint project by Ecosoil Africa and Shelter for Life aimed at promoting eco-friendly agricultural practices through school garden programs. Students at Charles Jaw Memorial Academy will now have the chance to engage in hands-on learning about sustainable farming techniques, including the cultivation of cashew trees known for their economic and nutritional benefits.
Amina Sonko, Head of Admin and Marketing at Ecosoil Africa, emphasized the importance of the initiative during her address at the event. “This event is significant because it aims to promote sustainable agriculture and environmental awareness within the educational sector,” she said. “We are donating high-quality Ecosoil fertilizer and special high-yielding cashew trees to Charles Jaw Memorial Academy.”
Louie Sylva, Trade Promotion and Access to Finance Officer at Shelter for Life and President of the Gambia Cashew Farmers Federation, underscored the regional scope of the partnership. “Shelter for Life is an American project operating under the U.S. State Department. We’re active in The Gambia, Senegal, and Guinea-Bissau,” he said. “Through Ecosoil Africa, we process organic fertilizers to enhance cashew production in the region. We discourage the use of chemicals on cashew trees. That’s why we’re here—to expand organic farming practices and support schools in planting and caring for cashew trees.”
The event also featured a practical demonstration led by Abdoulie Dumbuya, Marketing Manager at Ecosoil Africa, who guided students through the process of transplanting cashew seedlings and applying organic fertilizer. Dumbuya highlighted the uniqueness of the donated trees, noting, “These cashew seedlings were imported from Vietnam and are specially bred for higher yields. It’s now up to you, the students, to care for them and ensure they thrive.”
Kebba Tamba, Principal of Charles Jaw Memorial Academy, expressed his appreciation for the donation and its potential to enhance the school environment. “We’re honored to be chosen for this initiative within the Kanifing Municipality,” he said. “Trees offer shade and improve our school environment, and cashew trees are not only economic but also nutritious. I have already directed the agriculture teachers to assign students to take care of these trees. You can be assured of proper monitoring and maintenance of the cashew seedlings.”
The ceremony concluded with an enthusiastic planting session, as students rolled up their sleeves to transplant the cashew seedlings into the school grounds. Their participation reflected a shared excitement for contributing to a greener, more sustainable future at Charles Jaw Memorial Academy.
