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The Gambian women showing the way on climate action

Aminata E. Sanyang | Lukas Lottersberger
April 9, 2025

Studies show that women are particularly vulnerable to the impact of climate change due to their greater dependency on climate sensitive sectors such as agriculture, as well as higher levels of poverty and limited access to information. In The Gambia, a new generation of female educators and activists are fighting for a greener, fairer future.

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Fatou Njie, a trailblazing solar installer, challenges gender norms in the renewable energy sector by training women in solar installation. Education also plays a crucial role, as seen in a primary school in Abuko, where environmental activist Maimuna Jabbi raises awareness among children about environmental challenges.

Tree planting is another critical effort led by women. Fatou Jeng spearheads a project in Banjul, where 4,000 palm and baobab trees have been planted along the shoreline to combat sea level rise and coastal erosion. And in Bakau, the Women's Garden agricultural cooperative embraces organic farming, using animal manure and groundnut waste instead of chemicals to protect soil fertility and reduce salinization.

These initiatives not only mitigate climate change but also empower women to play active roles in their communities, inspiring others across the country to take similar actions for a more resilient and equitable future.