The Gambia Government has disclosed the verdict delivered by the Paris-based International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) regarding the legal case between the West African Aquaculture Limited (WAA) and The Gambia. This case revolves around the expropriation of Mr. and Ms. Hansson’s WAA Shrimp Farming business in the West Coast villages of Pirang and Sanyang by former President Yahya Jammeh on 3rd June 2015.

Following the change of Government in 2017 and unsuccessful negotiations, WAA’s proprietors referred the matter to the ICSID for arbitration.

After almost six years of deliberations, the tribunal ruled that former President Jammeh’s actions were unlawful and ordered The Gambia Government to compensate WAA with the sum of Eight Million, Seven Hundred Thousand, Two Hundred and Thirty-Three British Pound Sterling (£8,700,233.00) for damages.

Additionally, an 8% interest on the said sum compounded annually from 3rd June 2015 to the date of payment, plus cost and legal fees, brings the total award to more than Twenty Million British Pounds Sterling (£20 million).

This ruling highlights the repercussions of former President Jammeh’s disregard for the Rule of Law and his arbitrary decisions, which continue to adversely affect the current administration. In response, The Gambia Government is contemplating various options, including an appeal against the tribunal’s decision.

This case underscores the financial burden the Barrow Government is facing due to similar rulings against the Government by international tribunals, including the case of ALIMANTA S.A., former operators of The Gambia Groundnut Cooperation, whose foreign management was arbitrarily arrested and expelled by Mr. Yahya Jammeh in 1998.

Acknowledging these substantial financial losses, President Adama Barrow is committed to preventing executive overreach, particularly concerning the operations of international businesses in The Gambia.

He reminds Government officials and Agencies to always act in good faith, exercise restraint, and respect due process in the execution of their official duties.