By Modou Kanteh
The head of Aquaculture unit at the Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Water Resources and National Assembly Matters, Momodou Saidyleigh has disclosed that close to 1.7 million Dalasis has been spent on aquaculture project in seven communities. The project is about promoting cell fisheries and oyster production.
He informed that aquaculture is a big unit under the Department of Fisheries, with staff within Banjul, and Central River Region. He said there are plans to expand to other areas in order to promote and support oyster farmers in The Gambia.
The aquaculture specialist further disclosed that from the impact assessment of the project, the unit has put up plans to expand the culture of fisheries to different fish species.
Mr Saidyleigh further revealed that they intend to support oyster harvesters by introducing them to different cultures and adaptation methods in order to improve their livelihoods.
“Cell fisheries development should be promoted in the country as may increase state revenue”.
Further on the value of oyster farming, Mr Saidyleigh pointed out that it has so much economic value that needs to be cultured to encouraged and expanded to regions.
“Economically, oyster plays a vital role in the economy of the country especially in the tourism industry,” he stated.
