The European Union, in partnership with the Ministry of Youth & Sports and several local and international organisations, launched the “AGREEN Gambia” project on 17 April 2026. Funded through the Erasmus+ programme, the GMD 34.5 million initiative brings together partners from Spain, Croatia, Ireland, and The Gambia to strengthen vocational education, promote climate-smart agriculture, and expand employment opportunities for young people and women.
The project is particularly significant in The Gambia, where agriculture supports the livelihoods of around 72% of the population. By aligning training with labour market needs, AGREEN Gambia aims to equip young people with practical skills that can drive sustainable job creation and support the country’s broader development goals under the National Development Plan and the EU’s Global Gateway strategy.
EU representatives highlighted that vocational education plays a key role in empowering youth and building resilience. The initiative is designed to open up opportunities in agriculture and agribusiness, which are seen as growing sectors with strong potential for youth employment and economic inclusion.
Government officials also welcomed the project, noting its importance in modernising vocational training systems and improving access to skills that lead to meaningful employment. The focus is on ensuring that young people are better prepared for emerging opportunities in sustainable agriculture and related industries.
Overall, the AGREEN Gambia project represents a collaborative effort to strengthen education, support climate-smart farming practices, and create long-term economic opportunities for youth and women in The Gambia, while reinforcing international partnerships for sustainable development.
