The Ndemban-Jola Youth Development Association (NYDA) in Foni Berefet District of the West Coast Region, on Saturday planted 6, 000 tress at Ndemban –Jola Community Forest. The tree planting exercise coincided with the donation of five wheelbarrows, 10 shovels, 10 cutlasses and 100 T-shirts to the association by the Gamtel/Gamcel Staff Association.

Speaking at the exercise, the secretary general of the association, Yaya Colley, said that the aim of their association is to strengthen the unity, understanding and cooperation among the people in Ndemban-Jola.He expressed delight at the turn out, while commending them for a job well done during the exercise. Highlighting some of their constraints, Colley said the main one is finance. He therefore urged the government, NGO’s and philanthropists to come to their aid.

Speaking on behalf of Gamtel/Gamcel, Mam Seira Badjie commended the association for the great move, and urged them to make good use of the donated items.

The chairman of the Brikama Area Council, Sunkary Badjie highlighted the significance of the exercise, noting that the 6,000 trees planted will help in the restoration of the bush. Badjie commended the Gambian populace for contributing immensely towards keeping the country clean as recommended by President Jammeh.

For his part, Abubakar Colley, the chairman of the association, disclosed that the association was set up three years back by youths who are deeply committed to enhancing meaningful changes to the lives of the people by embarking on such worthy initiatives as tree planting and cleaning exercises. The aim of the association, Colley added, is to identify plans and manage ward-based development projects to implement standards. He used the opportunity to thank Gamtel/Gamcel for their assistance.

Other speakers included Fanding Colley; and Abubakarr Njie, the public relations officer of the association.