Editorial

Humanity has the ability to make development sustainable - the ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of the future generations to meet their own needs.  It is important to note here that the concept of sustainable development does has limits; not absolute limits but limitations imposed by the present stage of technology and social activities on the environmental resources, and by the ability of the biosphere to absorb the effects of human activities. But technology and social activities can both be managed and improved to make way for a new era of growth and development.

Our responsibilities to this effect are simple.  We have to direct our actions in a manner that does not threaten our natural environment and as well endeavour to indigenize our development. The leadership of this country has always emphasised the need for Gambians to go back to the land so that we can consume what we produce; take centre stage and utilize the country's economic growth potentials, and of recent to venture into massive tree planting operation, so that we can restore trees in our environment that have  vanished as a a result of natural causes or have fallen victim of human activity. If the Gambian people respond to such initiatives of our leadership, one can substantially argue that this country will be placed on the path of sustainable growth and development.

The satisfaction of human needs and aspirations is the major objective of development. This is why the process involves a progressive transformation of economy and society with every individual upholding a legitimate aspiration for an improved quality of life. One needs not to be a social scientist to know that the necessities that produce such a quality life is not ordained by God nor do we get them by chance. The conditions are created out of human activity.

We are in the mid of the rainy season, this is a golden opportunity to explore the growth potentials of the country. If we make maximum utilization of this season by returning to the source, it can be abundant for each and every individual to live a decent livelihood.  Let us act now, the future belongs to those who prepare for it today.