By Andrew Shirley from The Gambia
Think you'll escape the curse of the mobile ringtone in Africa? Think again.
Gambians have been quick to adopt mobile technology and there is virtually nowhere in the country, even the remotest corner, where you can't get a signal.
Sadly, mobile etiquette is just as bad as in the UK and everybody is either chattering away or incessantly texting on the wretched things.
But they have brought many benefits to the country's farmers. Previously at the mercy of traders, people can now check with other villages to see what vegetable prices are being offered to make sure they aren't being ripped off.
They cost about £40 - a big investment for a small-scale farmer. It's a lesson for some producers in the UK. Don't fear new technology, embrace it and you too could have the competitive edge.
I couldn't resist including the photograph of a Gambian government agricultural extension officer reading the Farmers Weekly. And what do you think grabbed his interest? The exciting News covereage, my insighful Business section? Did they heck. He went straight for the tractors - farmers, they're all the same the world over - boys and their toys.
This will be my last posting from The Gambia. Monday I'll be back in dear old Sutton. But I'll be trying to draw some conclusions from this trip, so watch out for that soon.
While you're waiting, here's a poser - what fruit or vegetable from The Gambia is pictured below?
Post your answer on this blog for a chance to win an exciting Gambian souvenir.
Comments (2)
With knowledge comes power is true and in Gambia this power can be in the form of increased production. Such as the F1 cattle. By breeding these cattle they are immune to a disease that is too long to remember. However they are careful not to interbreed too much that the immunity is lost. Maybe you could include an article about these cattle Andrew.
Comment left on March 26, 2007 4:44 PM
Posted on March 26, 2007 16:44
It is a cashew nut
Comment left on April 17, 2007 10:43 AM
Posted on April 17, 2007 10:43