By: Yunus S Saliu
The Gambia Tourism Board (GTBoard) has warned individuals and businesses constructing illegal structures within the Tourism Development Area (TDA), especially along beaches and waterfronts, to comply with regulations or face legal action.
The warning was issued by the Director General of GTBoard, Ida Jeng Njie, during an inspection tour of several sites within the tourism zone on Thursday.
She said some developers who were previously served notices by the authorities had ignored the directives and continued construction activities without the required approvals.
“Some of these structures were inspected three to four weeks ago and notices were issued. Unfortunately, some individuals refused to accept the notices and even behaved aggressively towards our staff,” she said.
According to her, several of the disputed structures have expanded significantly since the initial inspections, including the addition of second floors and fencing along beachfront areas.
Jeng Njie said unregulated construction and fencing along the coastline contribute to environmental degradation and coastal erosion.
She also expressed concern over sanitation and hygiene conditions at some of the illegally operated establishments.
The GTBoard Director General said the tourism authority would collaborate with Physical Planning, environmental agencies, law enforcement authorities and tourism security units to address the situation.
“This is not a fight against anyone. We are simply asking people to follow the law. If you want to invest, come to the GTBoard, seek guidance and obtain the necessary approvals,” she said.
She stressed that certain coastal areas are environmentally sensitive and unsuitable for permanent structures because of the risk of erosion and environmental damage.
The tourism official further highlighted concerns over public health and safety, noting that some illegal operations were located in areas that did not meet acceptable environmental and hygiene standards.
“We cannot invite tourists to locations that are unhygienic, unsafe or environmentally degraded,” she said.
Jeng Njie disclosed that GTBoard inspectors had repeatedly visited some of the disputed sites to advise operators on proper procedures, but some developers continued to ignore official instructions.
As part of ongoing enforcement measures, the Tourism Board plans to intensify inspections across the Tourism Development Area and other tourism zones nationwide.
According to her, recent inspections have already led to improvements in some areas where corrective measures were implemented.
“When we revisited some locations, especially in Kotu, we saw significant improvements. This demonstrates that progress is possible when stakeholders cooperate,” she said.
She added that GTBoard would fully apply the powers granted under the law to enforce compliance and protect the country’s tourism assets.
“Our goal is to ensure that The Gambia remains clean, attractive and competitive as a tourism destination. If we want to attract more visitors and higher-spending tourists, we must offer a quality product,” she said.
The Director General thanked the media and partner institutions for supporting efforts aimed at promoting sustainable tourism development and preserving The Gambia’s reputation as the “Smiling Coast of Africa.”
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