Title : Global advances in agricultural and horticultural sciences
Abstract:
It is a pleasure to address you today on the topic “Global Advances in Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences,” with a particular focus on their relevance and application in The Gambia. As we gather to explore innovations in agriculture and horticulture, we are reminded of the pressing need to localize global solutions—especially in regions like The Gambia, where farming remains the backbone of the economy and a vital lifeline for rural communities. The Gambia’s climate, characterized by a distinct dry and rainy season, presents both opportunities and challenges. While the rainy season supports crop cultivation, erratic rainfall patterns, rising temperatures, and frequent dry spells—driven by climate change—have increasingly put food production at risk. However, science and innovation offer hope. Globally, we are seeing transformative advances: climate-smart agriculture, drought-resistant crop varieties, improved soil management techniques, and digital technologies like satellite mapping and mobile-based extension services. These innovations are not just theoretical—they are adaptable and relevant to Gambian realities. In the face of accelerating climate change, population growth, and evolving consumer demands, the global landscape of agricultural and horticultural sciences is undergoing a transformative shift. This presentation explores the latest innovations and interdisciplinary approaches driving sustainable productivity, resource efficiency, and crop resilience. Key topics include precision agriculture, genome editing (CRISPR-Cas9), controlled environment agriculture, integrated pest management, and soil health regeneration. Emphasis is also placed on the role of digital technologies—such as AI, remote sensing, and big data analytics—in optimizing decision-making and fostering climate-smart practices. Case studies from both developed and emerging economies illustrate how science-led solutions are enhancing food security, economic viability, and environmental stewardship. The session aims to provide a global perspective on the synergy between traditional knowledge and modern science, highlighting collaborative strategies that are shaping the future of agriculture and horticulture. In The Gambia, there is growing momentum to integrate conservation agriculture, promote horticultural diversification, and adopt small-scale irrigation systems that reduce dependency on rainfall. At the same time, partnerships are being formed to bring biofortified crops, organic practices, and youth-led agri-tech solutions into the mainstream of Gambian farming. Thank you, and I look forward to engaging with you on how we can translate these advances into real impact for The Gambia and beyond.
