The article highlights the importance of sustainable tree management in The Gambia, emphasizing the need to transition from merely planting trees to ensuring their growth. Key stakeholders, including Green Up Gambia, the Indian High Commission, and the Government of the Gambia, are actively involved in initiatives to plant and maintain trees, particularly along the coastline. The efforts aim to combat climate change, improve air quality, and preserve the environment for future generations. The article underscores the collective responsibility to care for the planet and the benefits of international cooperation in environmental conservation.

The Gambia Government, through the National Environment Agency, is hosting a Steering Committee meeting for the UNEP/GEF Medium Size Project, focusing on the Great Green Wall Initiative (GGWI) aimed at restoring 100 million hectares of degraded landscapes across the Sahel by 2030. The initiative seeks to combat desertification, promote sustainable land management, and foster cross-border cooperation. The Gambia has committed $7,850,000 for the development of a project to support the GGWI, aiming to improve protected areas, restore land, and promote sustainable practices, benefiting 795,000 people with a focus on gender equity. Key stakeholders, including Minister Rohey John Manjang and regional coordinators, emphasized the importance of addressing climate change impacts and environmental challenges.

The West Africa Bird Association of the Gambia (WABA-G) has raised concerns over the ritual killing of vultures in the Gambia and the broader West African region. Fa Gimba Camara, head of WABA-G's research unit, highlighted the threats vultures face from communities engaging in ritual practices, particularly in Guinea Bissau and the Gambia. The West African Culture Conservation Action Plan aims to protect vulture species by promoting awareness and alternative practices. Vultures play a crucial role in the ecosystem by controlling diseases from carcasses, and their protection is vital as they face endangerment due to these harmful practices.

The Climate Resilience and Coastal and Marine Zones Project (GCCA+) is concluding its activities with a stakeholder meeting in Kotu, Gambia. The project, which has planted over four thousand coconut trees along the coastline, aims to continue its positive impact on coastal communities despite challenges. Project Coordinator Abubacarr Kujabi and other stakeholders, including the National Environment Agency, highlighted the project's achievements and ongoing efforts to support coastal resilience.

ECOWAS has donated 20 tricycles to The Gambia's Ministry of Environment to improve waste collection and sanitation. Commissioner Massandje Toure-Liste highlighted the global waste issue, emphasizing the need for collective action. The tricycles, with a 2.5-ton capacity, aim to enhance waste management in Banjul, aligning with President Adama Barrow's environmental goals. Minister Rohey John Manjang acknowledged the country's waste challenges and urged local councils to improve waste management efforts. The donation is part of a memorandum of understanding between ECOWAS and The Gambia, signifying a commitment to environmental health.

Action Aid International, in collaboration with Action Aid Italy, validated a research document on climate change-induced migration in The Gambia. The study highlights the severe climate events impacting the country, leading to increased migration, particularly among the youth. Ndella Faye Colley, Director of Action Aid-The Gambia, emphasized the need for deeper analysis of migration trends and climate impacts. The research aims to inform sustainable national interventions, with support from the Gambian government. Chris Norwood, a consultant, presented the document for stakeholder validation.

The National Environment Agency, under the GEF Land and Seascape Project, launched the Landscape Planning and Restoration Curriculum at Kafuta Forestry School to improve ecosystem services and livelihoods. Funded by the Global Environment Facility through the United Nations Environment Program, the curriculum aims to provide a comprehensive education in sustainable forest management and conservation. Key stakeholders, including Ousainou Touray and Principal Momodou Lamin Njai, emphasized the curriculum's importance in addressing gaps in forestry education and promoting environmental conservation in Gambia.

The Gambia Bureau of Statistics received seven Toyota Prado vehicles from UNOPS to enhance data collection in the country and the sub-region. The vehicles were funded by the World Bank and are intended to improve mobility for data collection efforts. Key figures such as Bruno Kessler from UNOPS and Lamin Bojang from the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs highlighted the importance of the vehicles for statistical harmonization and encouraged proper management and maintenance of the resources.

The Social Security and Housing Finance Corporation (SSHFC) Board held a strategic meeting at the Ocean Bay Hotel in Bakau, focusing on financial performance, dividend payments, and future planning of its subsidiaries. Chairman Oreme Joiner emphasized the importance of oversight and performance to ensure value for shareholders and stakeholders. Subsidiary CEOs provided updates on achievements and challenges, discussing strategies for sustainable growth and operational efficiency.

On January 18, 2024, the National Environment Agency of Gambia, along with partners, conducted a training session for National Assembly members on the implementation of GEAP III and environmental management, including the Coastal Zone Bill 2023. The training aimed to enhance the understanding of environmental issues and the role of the NEA. Essa Conteh, deputy chairperson of the Environment Select Committee, expressed the National Assembly's support for environmental protection. NEA director Dr. Dawda Badjie emphasized the urgency of addressing environmental threats and the importance of legislative support for effective implementation of environmental laws. Heiko Seilert and Abubacarr Kujabi from GCCA+ discussed the Integrated Coastal Zone Management bill and its significance for the country's climate resilience.