By: Kemo Kanyi
The Gambia government has come under intense criticism by the Cement Importers and Traders Association, accusing the government of unfair treatment of its citizens by monopolizing the cement market, causing price hike and scarcity of the product.
Members of the association made the criticisms at a press conference held on Tuesday at Sukuta-Jabang Traffic Lights. The presser came amidst sudden hike in the price of cement and its scarcity across various areas in the country.
About a year ago, they said the Gambian government imposed a 500% tax increase on the importation of bagged cement into the Gambia, dashing the hopes of small-scale importers of any chance of striving in the industry.
They argued that the three local companies (Jah Oil, GACEM and Salam) which were given the responsibility to import cement into the country couldn’t meet the demand in the market. They further accused the government of colluding with certain people against the interest of Gambians.
Speaking on behalf of the association, Baba Drammeh said the issue of cement pricing and scarcity should never be taken lightly by the government because the majority of its users are poor Gambians. “We felt strongly that what the government did was blatantly wrong, illegal and corrupt,” he added.
According to him, the country needs to have a fair and open market system where all those involved in the cement industry are able to trade freely.
“But we found ourselves in a situation whereby the government has chosen to collude with a few at the expense of us and the interest of the general public. This is totally wrong. It is illegal, and there is no way that it can be defended,” he stressed.
Babucarr Mbaye, another member of the association, disclosed that 75% of their businesses had run out of operation. He appealed to the government to rescind its policy decision on the importation of cement into the country, describing the decision as outrageous and should be condemned by all.
“I believe every Gambian should condemn this policy decision on cement importation. I called on all Gambians, especially the youth, to voice out a condemnation of the action taken by our government,” he pointed out.
Momodou Jobe, an entrepreneur for his part stated that the scarcity was deliberately caused by the government, knowing that if it reduced the suppliers and players in the cement industry, the prices will increase.