The TRY Association is a community-based organization of over 500 women oyster harvesters in The Gambia, working to raise their standard of living. The project targets members of the TRY Association who are often the sole breadwinners in their families. Many are widows and carry the family responsibilities including paying school fees for their children
The women use rudimentary technologies to harvest and process the oysters. They lack proper tools such as boats, boots and gloves, and life jackets. The oysters are often sold by the cup on the side of the road. The women do not have access to proper training, credit or facilities to run a business. Most of the women do not earn enough money to purchase food, clothing, or transportation.
The project will provide aquaculture and business training for the women so they learn how to properly and sustainably harvest, process and sell oysters. The TRY Association will offer: 1) micro finance and credit programs, 2) alternative livelihood opportunities, 3) product and market development, and 4) an educational facility for the women and their children.
The Try Association continues to grow. Unemployment and coastal degradation are diminished as both low-cost and sustainable economic and entrepreneurship opportunities increase, empowering women to be self-sufficient in Gambia.
