By: Fatou Krubally
The National Assembly on Wednesday adopted the National Environment Management Bill 2025, legislation aimed at strengthening environmental protection and promoting sustainable development in The Gambia.
The new law gives the National Environment Management Agency (NEMA) an expanded mandate to oversee environmental governance, regulate the use of natural resources and enforce measures to protect the country’s forests, waterways and biodiversity.
The legislation also establishes an Environment Tribunal, a specialised body tasked with adjudicating environmental disputes and ensuring compliance with national environmental standards.
During parliamentary scrutiny, the Assembly’s Select Committee on Environment, Sustainable Development and NGO Affairs conducted a detailed review of the bill, consulting with the Ministry of Environment, civil society organisations, development partners and other stakeholders.
According to lawmakers, several amendments were introduced during the review process, including clarifications on financial provisions, revisions to committee terms and the renaming of the proposed Environment Court to the Environment Tribunal in order to streamline enforcement mechanisms.
Members of the Assembly noted that the legislation addresses a wide range of environmental issues, including environmental planning, conservation, environmental impact assessments, marine protection and regulations related to the petroleum sector.
Most clauses of the bill were adopted without amendment, reflecting broad parliamentary consensus on the proposed legal framework and its alignment with international environmental commitments.
A senior legislator described the adoption of the law as “a historic step” toward ensuring that The Gambia’s natural resources are managed responsibly and sustainably.
The legislation also provides mechanisms for public participation in environmental governance, enabling citizens and communities to report violations, contribute to environmental decision-making and hold institutions accountable.
Lawmakers said the law is also expected to guide industries and public institutions in reducing environmental risks while ensuring compliance with national environmental standards.
