Post written by FFHC’s Project Manager Amina Sonko
Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) is a land restoration technique that communities can use to increase their land productivity relatively quickly. In FMNR farmers systematically regrow and manage trees and shrubs from stumps, roots and seeds, using selection, pruning and protection. The regrown trees and shrubs increase biodiversity and improve soil quality.
In July, FFHC’s Agriculture Extension Worker Lamin Nyabally and two Forestry Department officials traveled to Basse to learn more about the FMNR technique. A German man named Erik, based in Basse, has been using this technique in his plot of land for some time, and he is voluntarily training others to use it.
World Vision has implemented many FMNR projects around the world, also in Gambia’s neighboring country Senegal. In Gambia, FMNR is not yet widely practiced, although it is a very low-cost technique and requires very basic tools. According to Erik, FMNR is very good for Gambian conditions. Also Gambian environmental officials think so, yet training people to use it is lacking funds.
This year, 50 farmers in Jiffarong will receive training in FMNR and start applying it to the farming land. The use of FMNR method is expected to support restoration activities in Jiffarong, but also to improve food security through bigger crops. Lamin, who now knows the method, will teach the selected community members to use it. Also, the two Forestry Department officers will train their colleagues to use the method, for them to be able to share their knowledge forward in the communities.
The training organized in Basse lasted for two days. During the training, participants learned about the theory but also the practical side of the FMNR technique. The Project Manager of FFHC, Amina, interviewed Lamin about the benefits of the FMNR training.
- Was the training useful?
The utility of the FMNR training cannot be overstated. It empowers the community to actively participate in regenerating the environment, creating a lasting impact into the surroundings.
- What did you learn?
Our newfound knowledge empowers us to care for the land, nurture plant life, and restore what has been lost. This will leave a lasting impact on our forests and the resources they provide.
- How can FMNR be utilized more broadly in The Gambia?
Expanding FMNR across The Gambia holds immense potential for improving the environment and the lives of its people. Collaborative efforts have the power to create a widespread impact.
- How can FMNR be utilized on the Tesito project?
For the Tesito project, the impact of FMNR will be direct and transformative. Training local community members and providing essential tools which will lead to positive changes in their lives and the environment. Next, we will identify suitable areas for FMNR, select beneficiaries for training, and start applying the technique in Jiffarong. We will also provide the necessary tools and support for them to start using the method in their own plots of land, to enhance crop production and soil quality.
Stay tuned to see, how the FMNR technique will be implemented in Jiffarong!
World Vision has created a very informative manual in FMNR technique, you can find it here Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration Manual | Climate Change | World Vision International (wvi.org)