First Lady Leads National Charge Against Food Waste with Türkiye and TIKA in Gunjur

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

In a strong demonstration of leadership and commitment to sustainable development, Her Excellency the First Lady, Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, today stood at the forefront of The Gambia’s fight against food waste, joining forces with the Embassy of Türkiye and the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) in Gunjur, West Coast Region, to commemorate the International Day of Zero Waste 2026.

The event, marked with purpose and urgency, reinforced The Gambia’s growing alignment with global efforts to confront one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. The International Day of Zero Waste, observed annually under the joint stewardship of UNEP and UN-Habitat, serves as a powerful reminder of the need for responsible consumption, efficient production systems, and sustainable waste management practices.

This year’s focus on food waste brings into sharp perspective a staggering global reality: nearly one billion tonnes of food are lost or wasted every year. Against this backdrop, the First Lady’s presence in Gunjur sent a clear and decisive message—The Gambia is not standing idle but is actively engaging international partners to drive meaningful change at the grassroots level

Central to the campaign is the promotion of the “5 R’s” principle—Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rot (compost)—a practical framework aimed at transforming everyday habits and fostering a culture of sustainability among citizens.

Today’s engagement in Gunjur was more than a symbolic observance; it was a call to action. Communities, institutions, and individuals alike are being urged to take ownership of the zero-waste agenda by adopting environmentally responsible behaviors, organizing awareness initiatives, and embracing innovative solutions to minimize waste.

With strong partnerships and visionary leadership, The Gambia continues to position itself as a proactive player in the global movement toward a circular economy—one that prioritizes resource efficiency, environmental protection, and long-term national resilience.