Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Mayor of Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) has announced a series of fire prevention and safety measures following recent fires at Sandika markets in Serekunda and Latrikunda, which destroyed 13 sheds and 9 kiosks. Talib Ahmed Bensouda also announced that an agreement has been reached to relocate the popular Sandika market of Serrekunda in the aftermath of the fire outbreak.

Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda, speaking at a press conference alongside Market Management and Municipal Police officials, expressed gratitude that no lives were lost and no injuries were reported. He commended the swift intervention of market management, the municipal police, the Gambia Fire and Rescue Services, and community members who assisted in containing the fires.

After a thorough assessment of both incidents, the mayor emphasized the need for coordinated action with partners to mitigate market fire risks. He announced several measures, including the acquisition of fire prevention equipment. According to Mayor Bensouda, KMC has distributed 44 fire extinguishers across 17 markets, three municipal establishments, and to first responders within Market Management and the Municipal Police.

The mayor also announced an increased security presence with an additional team of 17 officers who that have been deployed to markets, bringing the total to 129 officers stationed for security and emergency response.

Another measure announced by the mayor of Kanifing is the market cleanup with debris from the affected Sandika sites now totally cleared. Meanwhile, the council has agreed with vendors that the Sandika market will be relocated.

Mayor Bensouda has also announced that all municipal officers will undergo fire marshal certification through HG Company and receive immediate firefighting training.

As regards the electrical safety initiative, the council has partnered with NAWEC to form a task force that will inspect illegal wiring in markets and provide training to council electricians on sustainable electrical wiring.

Mayor Bensouda reaffirmed the council’s commitment to market safety and the welfare of affected vendors, assuring them of continued support in rebuilding and enhancing fire prevention efforts.