91麻豆天美

From 27th to 30^th May 2024, the UN Technology Bank conducted a field assessment mission to The Gambia to better understand the actual constraints and challenges in the cashew nuts sector.

The project called Post-Harvest Loss Management of Cashew Nuts aligns with The Gambia’s National Development Plan and the UN’s Sustainable Development Framework for The Gambia, with a strategic objective to increase the national capacity for cashew nut value chain actors to assess and address post-harvest losses of cashew-nuts in the Republic of The Gambia.

During the mission, the UNTB team, with 2 technical experts from TUB?TAK and the support of the Gambian Authorities, conducted a series of comprehensive field assessments to identify the main reasons behind post-harvest loss and the potential improvements in the post-harvest process. The team visited cashew nut farms to observe harvesting practices, collection and carrying centers to assess handling and transportation processes, and cashew nut processing facilities to observe drying processes. They also evaluated storage facilities to ensure they meet standards that prevent post-harvest loss.

Engaging with stakeholders was a critical part of the mission. The UNTB team held meetings with farmers and cooperatives involved in the post-harvest processes, including the Gambia Cashew Alliance, National Farmers Platform, and Gambia Cashew Farmers Federation. These interactions provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by those directly involved in the cashew nut value chain.

The mission conducted by the UN Technology Bank in collaboration with key partners and stakeholders in The Gambia represents a significant step towards addressing post-harvest losses in the cashew nut industry. By leveraging local expertise and international knowledge, this initiative holds the potential to drive positive change and improve the livelihoods of cashew nut farmers and processors in The Gambia. As efforts continue to strengthen the cashew nut value chain, the UN Technology Bank remains committed to supporting countries like The Gambia in achieving their development aspirations and building a more resilient and sustainable future for all.

We thank you all the key partners in The Gambia, including the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad and the Ministry of Agriculture of The Republic of The Gambia for their invaluable collaboration. Gratitude is extended also to the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkiye (T?B?TAK) for providing essential expertise and technical support, as project knowledge partner.