Kemo is a passionate conservationist who is dedicated to realizing the pan-African vision: The Great Green Wall Initiative, a movement of communities working towards a bold response to climate change. Currently serving as Head of Community Engagement at CIVIC, he is also the founder and director of Green-Up Gambia, an organization that works to protect natural resources in The Gambia and serves as a watchdog on the government and holds it accountable for protecting natural resources. Its interventions have saved one of the country's ecotourism parks, and helped to track timber logging activities. 

IVLP Impact Award Project: The Gambia Farmers Congress

The Gambia Farmers Congress is a platform for empowering farmers and revitalizing the agricultural sector in the face of limited resources, poor infrastructure, and climate change. This project brought together farmers, policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders to exchange knowledge, experiences, and best practices. Capacity building sessions were organized for farmers in four regions of The Gambia. An event brought together community leaders, agricultural extension workers, policy makers, CSOs and farmers to address climate-smart agriculture, sustainable land management, access to finance, and value chain development.

The event was covered in the media: Farmers prexy appeals for assistance - The Point and was featured in a News Bulletin on the 10pm Daily News for the Gambia radio and television services (GRTS) on the 16th of September 2023.

Kemo was also a panelist for the IVLP Impact Awards Alumni Discussion Series panel on “Involving Community in Environmental Action,” which you can read more about here.

"From the congress, I learned that the roots of progress are watered with shared experiences and nurtured by collaboration." - Congress Attendee

IVLP Exchange Experience 

Kemo participated in the IVLP Project U.S. Approaches to Climate Change Challenges III, organized by the U.S. Department of State and American Councils for International Education, in partnership with Iowa International Center, Global Ties Sacramento, and International Citizen Diplomacy of Los Angeles.

Kemo's exchange experience led to the development of his IVLP Impact Award Project: "This program has been an incredible journey, providing me with valuable insights into various strategies and best practices for addressing climate change issues. I had the privilege to meet with experts from different sectors and learn about innovative solutions that can be applied in various contexts...With the support and guidance from the IVLP program, I am confident that I can make a meaningful impact in my community and contribute to the global efforts in addressing climate change challenges."

U.S. Communities Visited

Los Angeles, CA; Monterey, CA; Sacramento, CA; Washington, DC; Des Moines, IA

"One particular aspect [of the IVLP] that stood out to me was the inspiring efforts of organizations and individuals in promoting sustainable agriculture and empowering farmers to adapt to changing climate conditions. This experience has fueled my passion to make a positive impact in my home country." - Kemo Fatty

Country: The Gambia 

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