Speaking at the President Adama Barrow peace award ceremony, Hamat Bah, the Minister of Tourism and Culture, urged the business community operating in The Gambia to alleviate the financial strain on Gambians by reducing the cost of essential goods before the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Minister Bah highlighted the need for solidarity and compassion, especially during Ramadan, stating, “There is a lot of discussion and noise as Ramadan approaches. We should all be aware that the high costs in The Gambia during Ramadan are not unique to the country. Rice and cooking oil are at an all-time high right now, but we should sell the goods we make here in the nation at a fair price so that everyone benefits.”

To underscore his point, Minister Bah called attention to specific data, noting that the price of rice in The Gambia is cheaper than in neighboring countries. He emphasized the importance of fair pricing, stating, “In order to make Ramadan easier for everyone, please reduce the price of the fish we catch here, the meat we sell, and the crops we raise. Let’s remember that and support one another.”

Minister Bah also addressed potential challenges or barriers to lowering prices, stating, “Even though you harvest what you plant yourself, during Ramadan you raise your prices and lay the blame squarely on the shoulders of the government. Let’s help one another as Ramadan approaches.”

The Minister further urged the business community to look beyond immediate profits and consider the broader impact of their pricing decisions on the community. He cited examples of how lowering prices during Ramadan has benefited communities in the past, emphasizing the need for solidarity and cooperation.

Minister Bah concluded by calling for unity and support as Ramadan approaches, stating, “No matter how much noise you make in our nation, just look at the neighboring countries and compare the pricing; they all get it from the same place. Let’s help one another as Ramadan approaches.”

The Minister’s appeal comes at a critical time as The Gambia prepares to observe Ramadan, highlighting the importance of compassion and solidarity in ensuring that everyone can observe the holy month with dignity and ease.