Government Revokes Muhammad Jah and Others’ Kamalo Land Allocations, Still Looking for Missing Files

Hamat Bah

Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Ministry of Lands, Regional Government, and Religious Affairs has concluded its investigation into the Kamalo industrial layout, marking a significant step in addressing widespread concerns about irregularities in land allocation. Speaking at a press briefing, Minister Hamath Bah outlined the findings of the Kamalo Task Force, which was set up two years ago following numerous public complaints.

The investigation, commissioned through an executive order, sought to uncover improprieties in the allocation of plots within the Kamalo layout. The task force submitted a 34-page report with 14 key recommendations, which have now been adopted by the ministry. Upon receiving the report, the Ministry sought legal advice from the Attorney General’s Chambers, resulting in decisive actions to rectify the issues.

One of the most significant outcomes of the investigation is the revocation of land allocations in the Kamalo extension and parts of the Kamalo proper layout. A total of 40 plots were reviewed, with 12 forfeited from Kamalo proper and 28 fully revoked in the extension. Allocations made without ministerial approval or proper documentation, such as business registration certificates, were deemed invalid. Additionally, allottees with multiple plots were required to forfeit one to the state to ensure fairness and proper distribution.

Kamalo File Disappeared During Investigation

The report also highlighted the disappearance of the Kamalo file during the investigation, raising concerns about accountability within the ministry. The minister confirmed that officials implicated in the mishandling of the file would face consequences, as recommended by the task force.

Several specific cases of impropriety were addressed in the report. Companies and individuals who failed to meet the allocation criteria, such as providing personal bank account statements instead of company accounts, had their allocations revoked. Notable forfeitures include plots allocated to GOPI Furniture Limited, Hydroform Manufacturing, and GQ Trading Company Limited, owned by Muhammad Jah.

Environmental sustainability was also emphasized in the recommendations. The Ministry has mandated a comprehensive environmental impact assessment for the Kamalo proper layout before any further development can proceed. This move aims to ensure that future activities on the site align with environmental standards.

In another key finding, the task force questioned the compensation of seven plots to the Ceesay family by the Ministry. The lack of evidence supporting this compensation raised concerns about potential abuse of process, which the Ministry has pledged to address.

The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving land management in The Gambia and announced that allottees unaffected by the investigation could commence work on their plots immediately. Additionally, the ministry is accelerating efforts to implement a national land policy that will clarify the roles and responsibilities of various land management authorities to prevent similar issues in the future.

The task force’s recommendations provide a clear roadmap for restoring transparency and accountability in land administration,” the minister stated. “We consider the matter resolved and closed, and we remain committed to ensuring fair and just land allocation processes moving forward.”

The government’s actions underscore its resolve to address land mismanagement and promote accountability, signaling a new chapter in The Gambia’s approach to land administration.

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