Kombo Sanyang has threatened authorized motion towards the Gambian authorities over plans to construct a deep seaport in an space of the village that might have an effect on tons of of individuals and 1000’s of properties.
Ablie Gaye, the chairman of the village improvement committee, stated that if the federal government proceeds with out addressing the villagers’ considerations, they may take authorized motion.
“We have consulted with our lawyers, and while we will not resort to violence, we are prepared to challenge the government’s plan in court,” Mr. Gaye stated.
He argued that many residents who depend on the world for his or her livelihoods shall be severely impacted.
“This is where we have our fish landing site, and many people depend on it for their living. There are also over 50 eco-lodges, and the government is attempting to take this land away from the people,” he added.
Mr. Gaye claimed that regardless of a authorities promise to ship a grasp plan by January 2025, dozens of villagers had been served with eviction notices, resulting in widespread anger and concern.
“I contacted the management of the ports to raise our concerns, and they met with us and offered an apology,” he stated. “However, I believe the government is trying to downplay the situation and deceive the villagers.”
He added: “If a minister’s intention is to deceive the people, then they should resign.”
Reports from the Gambia Ports Authority advised that over 461 properties may very well be affected by the seaport mission. However, Mr. Gaye has dismissed this determine as inaccurate.
“According to our mapping, more than 2,000 properties would be impacted,” he stated, describing the declare from Mr. Jobarteh, the managing director of the ports authority, as “false.”
Mr. Gaye additionally revealed {that a} delegation from Sanyang village met with the Minister of Works, Ebrima Sillah, who instructed the port authorities to halt work within the village till additional consultations with native residents are held.
“Government officials are still unclear about where the deep-sea port should be built,” Mr. Gaye stated.
He concluded: “We are not just crying out of frustration; we are crying because the government has effectively destroyed Sanyang. All the mining in the Kombos began in Sanyang, yet the village has seen no benefits from these resources.”
By Adama Makasuba
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