ACReSAL, COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PARTNER TO BOOST GUM ARABIC PRODUCTION IN TARABA
The Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) in Taraba State has partnered with the College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Jalingo, to establish a Gum Arabic plantation aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and boosting the economic value of the crop in the state.
The initiative involves the planting of Gum Arabic (Acacia senegal), a tree species widely recognised for its economic and environmental importance.
Speaking during the tree-planting exercise, the Forest Management Officer, Mr. Chifang Mbapyi Rimamkawati, appreciated the Rector and management of the institution for providing land for the project and further pleaded with them to protect the trees.
“I appreciate the Rector for his assistance in this fieldwork and I plead with the Rector and the surrounding communities to jealously protect this investment.” He stated.
Representing the Taraba State Project Coordinator, the Environmental Safeguard Officer of ACReSAL, Alhaji Dahiru Umar, also commended the College for its cooperation and support.
He disclosed that the institution had allocated 10 hectares of land for the establishment of the Gum Arabic plantation, describing the partnership as a significant step towards promoting sustainable land management and economic opportunities.
“We are today specifically to tree plantation of Gum Arabic. This school has been identified as one of the site because of the role has been playing year in, year out in promoting agricultural activities in this state.” He mentioned.
The Rector of the College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Dr. Yakubu Ali Garjila, commended ACReSAL for fulfilling its commitment to establishing the Gum Arabic plantation at the institution.
Dr. Garjila said the project would be beneficial to both staff and students, while also contributing to environmental conservation and creating opportunities for practical learning and economic development.
“We always welcome practical things that our students and staff will benefit from it. The door is open for more helpful projects like this”
He said.
The exercise saw staff members of the College and ACReSAL taking turns to plant Gum Arabic seedlings in holes that had earlier been prepared for the project.
The partnership is expected to contribute to the promotion of tree planting, climate resilience and sustainable agricultural practices while encouraging the cultivation of economically valuable tree species in Taraba State.
