Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL) – The Ministry of Lands, Regional Government, and Religious Affairs, in partnership with the Gambia Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and Banjul International Airport, has raised serious concerns over unauthorized developments near the airport’s perimeter fence. These developments pose significant security risks, potentially interfering with flight paths and creating obstructions during takeoff and landing, thereby compromising the safety and efficiency of airport operations.

To address this pressing issue, a high-level meeting was held at the GCAA conference room at Banjul International Airport on Friday, September 13, 2024. The meeting, led by Deputy Permanent Secretary (Technical) Mr. Mamudou Manjang, brought together key stakeholders to discuss strategies for curbing rapid and unchecked development around the airport. The goal was to ensure regulatory compliance and protect both aviation operations and nearby communities from potential hazards.

In attendance were representatives from various government bodies and community leaders. Among them were Deputy Permanent Secretary (Technical) Ebrima Colley from the Ministry of Transport, Works, and Infrastructure (MOTWI), Deputy Director General of the GCAA Sulayman Jatta, staff members from the GCAA, Chiefs, Alkalos, and technical teams from the Department of Lands and Survey and the Department of Physical Planning and Housing. Additionally, representatives from NGO Affairs were present to contribute to the discussions.

During the meeting, chaired by Deputy Permanent Secretary Ebrima Colley, stakeholders underscored the dangers posed by developments encroaching upon the airport perimeter, particularly where residential properties have been built near the boundary. Mr. Sulayman Jatta, Deputy Director General of the GCAA, stressed the aviation sector’s responsibility to safeguard the airport premises, ensure compliance with international standards, and prevent any interference that could threaten airport operations.

The stakeholders agreed to collaborate in tackling the issue. A key outcome of the meeting was the decision to launch a comprehensive study, led by the Ministry’s technical team, in coordination with local community leaders (Alkalos) and the GCAA. This study will assess the extent of encroachment around the airport and will serve as a foundation for future actions, including sensitization campaigns aimed at educating the public about the importance of maintaining safe distances from airport facilities.

By addressing these challenges, the Ministry of Lands and the GCAA hope to prevent further encroachment and mitigate the risks posed by these unauthorized developments, ensuring the continued safety and efficiency of operations at Banjul International Airport.