In a spirited group discussion held at the Dr Isatou Jallow Hall of the Gambia Nutrition Agency (NaNA), a group of young advocates highlighted the role of importation in the high cost of eggs locally.

This dialogue took place during the commencement of Africa Day celebrations, organised by Africa Catalyzing Action for Nutrition (AfriCAN), a continental body committed to combating malnutrition together with The Gambia Nutrition Agency (NaNA].

The youth pointed out that the cost of eggs locally is significantly impacted by the importation of chicks and their feed. "The high cost is due to the importation of chicks and the feeds they require," one participant explained. "If we rely less on imported feeds and more on locally available alternatives like millet and maize, we could reduce expenses substantially."

They proposed an educational initiative targeted at farmers, highlighting the potential of locally sourced feed. "Farmers should be educated on the benefits of using locally available foods such as millet and maize, which are not only more affordable but also readily accessible," they suggested. This education could empower farmers to reduce reliance on expensive imported feeds, ultimately lowering the cost of egg production.

Additionally, the group advocated for financial support for farmers to transition to local feeds. "Providing farmers with capital will enable them to purchase local feeds after they have received proper education on their benefits," another youth participant added. This combination of education and financial motivation is seen as a strategic approach to making egg production more sustainable and cost-effective.

The event highlighted the importance of local solutions in addressing nutritional challenges. The discussions at NaNA underscored the potential for young people to contribute innovative ideas and practical solutions to pressing issues like food security and the high cost of living.

Organisers from the Africa Catalyzing Action for Nutrition (African) commended the youths for their insightful contributions. "It is inspiring to see such proactive engagement from young people," said a representative from Africa. "Their suggestions could pave the way for significant improvements in our local agricultural practices and overall nutrition."

As Africa Day celebrations continue, the focus remains on collaborative efforts and innovative solutions to improve nutrition and food security across the continent.

The contributions of the youth at NaNA serve as a reminder of the power of education, local resources, and community-driven initiatives in fostering sustainable development.

"Personally, I think that the government needs to invest in this area because we have qualified farmers for the job. We have local chicks that lay eggs as well but because that is not an area of focus everyone is interested in getting the foreign ones because that will sell faster than the local ones. So if we as a nation invest in our local poultry farms we will be able to produce enough and not focus on importing poultry or eggs. For this to be achieved, another area to focus on is the rice, millet, and maize farms because it is out of these that the poultry farmers will also get their feeds"Dorothy Fosu, a participant representing Ghana noted.