Gambiaj.com – (Banjul, the Gambia)- The National Assembly has unanimously passed a motion aimed at safeguarding customary land rights and strengthening land governance across The Gambia, amid increasing cases of land disputes, illegal sales, and forced evictions.

“Land in The Gambia represents not only property but identity, livelihood, inheritance, and the
foundation of rural dignity,” said Hon. Sulayman Saho, Member for Central Badibou, as he
tabled the motion. “The lack of legal documentation and affordable dispute resolution
mechanisms has left many families vulnerable to arbitrary evictions and land grabbing.”
The motion calls on the Ministry of Land, Regional Government, and Religious Affairs to
conduct a nationwide review of disputes and evictions involving customary land. It also
recommends the establishment of a National Land Rights Commission to mediate conflicts,
develop a customary land registry under local authorities, and protect communal land systems.

The Ministry of Justice has been urged to draft a customary land security bill within 12 months
to legally recognize customary land ownership and ensure fair compensation in cases of
compulsory acquisition.
Several NAMS voiced support, emphasizing the urgency of the issue. “We need a legal
framework to prevent illegal land use and conflicts,” said the Member for Lower Badibu.
“Powerful people often take advantage of the powerless to seize land. This motion will help
protect communities.”

Hon. Ceesay kiang West noted the need for careful consultation, saying, “We cannot rush this
process. Communities differ, and the Ministry must have sufficient time to engage stakeholders.
A thorough approach will ensure fairness and peace.”
The motion also encourages capacity building for district tribunals and local government land
boards to ensure gender-sensitive and transparent decision-making in land matters.
Members highlighted that land disputes are widespread, from Greater Banjul to rural areas like
Sukuta and Fony, often involving overlapping ownership claims and unauthorized land sales.
“Even in areas with well-known land tenure systems, conflicts persist,” said the Member for
Bondali. “Without clear laws and enforcement, peace cannot prevail.”

The unanimous passage of the motion could mark a significant step toward strengthening legal
protection for customary landowners in The Gambia and ensuring fair and equitable land
governance across the country.