By Fatou Dahaba
As part of its annual tree-planting exercise, the Ostend City Link Banjul project, in collaboration with Banjul City Council, planted more than one thousand varieties of trees at the beaches in Banjul over the weekend.
This initiative, launched in August 2020, was titled “Planting Trees to Save Banjul.” It aimed to enhance the city’s beauty and environmental sustainability.
They have successfully planted 4,500 coconut trees and plan to add 1,000 more, along with 1,000 other tree varieties such as Moringa, Silk Cotton, Baobab, and Casuarina.
Annette Camara, Communication officer at Ostend City Link -Banjul project, said the annual tree planting is a success because they don’t grow trees and leave; instead, they plant, nurture, and protect trees.
She said they have also employed 35 gardeners to water the trees and clean the beach and security personnel who protect the trees. She added that they have trained, enlightened, and dialogued with stakeholders they believe are threats to the trees.
Ousman Jobe, the project coordinator, said the trees are out there to protect the beach from sea erosion and make it environment friendly, which can serve as economic potential for those working there.
He states that the initiative has three components, such as coconut trees on the beachside, in the inner city, and in the mangroves, which will all help preserve the city.
Modou Lamin Bah, National Assembly Member for Banjul Nort, said the beach greening initiative has been a critical discussion point since the beginning of the project’s paying dividends.
‘In Banjul, we believe in climate action. That’s why we don’t plant trees anymore; we grow and nurture them to become very productive.’
Modou Jonga, CEO of Banjul City Council, said planting trees will help protect Banjul’s coastal line and, most importantly, prevent erosion.
He acknowledged the efforts of the staff and the project coordinator for their tremendous job and commitment to the project.
Azziz Dabakh Gaye, Deputy Mayor of Banjul, reassured the Banjul City Council of its commitment to the people it is mandated to serve and said it will ensure the sustainability of this beach greening initiative.
He appealed to the residents of Banjul to take good care of trees planted within the inner city or at the beach for their own protection and good.
“Our commitment to sustainability includes water conservation, and six water tanks ensure efficient water utilization. Enhanced Facilities: We’ve built two new toilet facilities, an office space, and three wooden sheds for security. Eco-friendly Lighting: A solar lighting system illuminates the beach area,” the deputy mayor said.
