China Seminar Gives Fatu Network Reporter Fresh Vision for Gambia’s Ecotourism

Written by: Dawda Baldeh

The Fatu Network Senior Reporter Alieu Jallow has completed a two-week international seminar on Ecological Governance and Ecotourism Development for Belt and Road Countries in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China, returning to The Gambia with new ideas on environmental protection, sustainable tourism and public accountability.

The seminar, held from August 13th to 26th, 2026, was organised by the Biogas Institute of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (BIOMA) and brought together participants from 10 Belt and Road partner countries to exchange knowledge on ecological governance, environmental protection, tourism and sustainable development.

Jallow was nominated by the Chinese Embassy in Banjul in recognition of his journalism, particularly his reporting on development and community issues.

During the two-week programme, participants attended lectures, undertook field visits and examined ecological, agricultural, cultural and tourism initiatives across China.

Jallow said the experience had strengthened his professional outlook.

“I have learned a lot and seen many inspiring initiatives that guide me in asking the right questions to our authorities, but equally contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said.

Lessons for The Gambia

Jallow said one of his biggest takeaways was the importance of national commitment and collective responsibility in achieving development.

“The key to every development is love for one’s nation. As for The Gambia, we sometimes blame the government, but I believe the change should start from us, despite some irregularities from our government officials,” he said.

A visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding particularly impressed him.

The senior reporter said the facility demonstrated how wildlife conservation could be integrated with tourism, employment and local economic development.

“The zoo is not simply a place where animals are kept for public viewing. It has become part of a broader tourism ecosystem that attracts visitors, creates employment, generates business opportunities and contributes to the local economy,” Jallow said.

He believes The Gambia has similar opportunities through its natural assets, including Abuko Nature Reserve, Monkey Park, the former wildlife facility in Kanilai, the River Gambia’s hippopotamus population, wetlands, forests and coastal ecosystems.

“The Gambia has resources that could be developed into sustainable tourism attractions while protecting biodiversity and creating opportunities for young people,” he said.

Jallow also highlighted lessons from the ancient Dujiangyan Irrigation and River Conservation Project, saying its long-term approach to water management demonstrated the value of investing in infrastructure that benefits communities for generations.

He cited China’s high-speed rail system as another example of how infrastructure can improve connectivity and stimulate economic activity.

Calls for Accountability

Jallow called for stronger oversight of public investments in tourism and environmental projects, arguing that government-funded lodges, hotels and other facilities must deliver measurable benefits.

“We may not need to copy China. What we need is to study the principles, understand our own environment and develop solutions that fit our realities,” he said.

He said ecological governance must extend beyond conservation.

“Ecological governance is not only about protecting nature. It is also about turning environmental resources into sustainable opportunities while ensuring that future generations inherit a healthier and more resilient country. We must hold officials accountable for their actions.”

Speaking on behalf of the Gambian delegation at the closing ceremony, Jallow thanked the Chinese government, BIOMA and the Chinese Embassy in Banjul for the opportunity.

“This seminar has been more than a training programme. It has strengthened our understanding of innovation, environmental sustainability, governance and development, while also deepening the longstanding partnership between China and The Gambia,” he said.

Jallow is expected to apply the lessons from the programme to his journalism, particularly in reporting on environmental protection, sustainable tourism, development and accountability in the management of The Gambia’s natural resources.