Ordinary Gambians are increasingly struggling to access fresh fish in local markets, a staple of the national diet and culture. The growing dominance of fishing trolleys in Gambian waters has significantly altered the local fishing economy, threatening both affordability and freshness.
Fish vendors, such as Kumba Manneh at the Tanji fish landing site, report that the cost of entering the fishing business has skyrocketed. Fishing trolleys, which can preserve their catch for several days using ice blocks, sell at higher prices, putting small vendors at a disadvantage. Manneh noted that a bucket of fish that once sold for 3,000 dalasi now fetches up to 8,000 dalasi—and sometimes the fish is no longer fresh. This price inflation directly affects consumers and vendors alike, making fresh fish a luxury for many Gambian households.
Fuel costs, middlemen, and the need for ice preservation all contribute to higher prices, as explained by Momodou Sarr, President of the Tanji Fishermen Association. Sarr stressed that respecting fishing regulations is essential to protect marine resources and ensure the sustainability of the sector.
Efforts have been made to engage Gambian youth in fishing. Lamin Bojang, Chairman of the Tanji Beach Management Committee, highlighted training programs for 200 youths, yet limited resources—such as only two government-donated boats—restrict meaningful participation. Foreign fishermen, particularly during festive seasons, exacerbate scarcity and further inflate prices.
Vendors like Kaddy Colley emphasize that consumers still prefer fresh fish over preserved varieties, underscoring the need for accessible local catches. Calls to reconsider fishing trolley licenses and provide government or private sector support for youth-driven fisheries could help restore balance, ensuring that ordinary Gambians have access to affordable, fresh fish.
If these measures are not taken, the small-scale fishermen who have long sustained Gambian markets may be marginalized, and the nation risks losing both the economic and cultural benefits of a vibrant, locally-driven fishing sector. Fresh fish should not be a luxury—it is a right for every Gambian.
