National natural resource policy : Republic of The Gambia, West Africa : final policy document

Many policies, projects, and programs are not implemented and sustained because of: insufficient funding and staff; unfocused priorities, leading to watered-down efforts; and non-existent local institutional incentives and local involvement. This paper proposes a natural resource policy which aims to bridge the gulf between legislative intent, policy formulation, and adopted plans on the one hand, and program implementation at the local level on the other. The paper begins with a description of The Gambia"s natural resource setting, covering the River Gambia, rainfall and temperature, employment, population, land use, and the land tenure system. Major environmental problems are then discussed, including desertification, deforestation, soil degradation, surface and ground water quality and quantity, loss of biological diversity, and low agricultural productivity. The report then assesses The Gambia"s natural resource laws, policies, plans, and institutions. Final sections summarize natural resource policy goals and priorities and outline the local implementation strategy and interventions.