Africa-Press – Gambia. The National Assembly on Tuesday deliberated on the escalating security and humanitarian situation in Gambia’s southern border communities, following concerns raised over cross-border shelling, internal displacement, and the protection of national sovereignty.
Raising the matter of urgent public importance under Standing Order 51, Honourable Almameh Gibba, Member for Foni Kansala, highlighted the impact of ongoing clashes between Senegalese forces and elements of the Movement of Democratic Forces of Casamance (MFDC), which he said have spilled into Gambian territory.
Gibba told lawmakers that several communities had been forced to flee their homes. “Families have abandoned homes, farms, and livestock in search of safety,” he said, naming affected villages as Jakin, Kayenga, Kamosor, Batenden, Ajapina, and Jifanga. He added that displaced residents had sought refuge in nearby settlements including Sibanor, Tampoto, Kabokor, and other parts of Foni Kansala such as Dobong, Burok, and Sengajor.
He also criticised a press release issued by the National Early Warning and Response Mechanism Coordination Centre (NCCRM), alleging that it wrongly located the affected villages in Cassamance, Senegal. He called for an immediate public apology and urged institutions to ensure accuracy in official communications.
Gibba further noted the humanitarian impact of the situation, stating that schools along the border had been closed, livelihoods disrupted, and communities prevented from observing Eid al-Fitr prayers due to insecurity. He appealed to the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) to provide urgent relief assistance, and called on the Gambia Armed Forces and the Ministry of Defence to engage Senegalese counterparts to prevent further incursions.
Several members supported the concerns raised during the debate. Bakary K. Badjie, Member for Foni Bintang, described ongoing bombardments affecting communities since March 12, stressing that residents should not be made to bear the consequences of the conflict, and urged government to assume full responsibility for their protection.
Hon. Lamin Ceesay, Member for Kiang West, called for responsible and responsive leadership, urging authorities to prioritise the welfare of affected citizens over political considerations.
Other lawmakers from Central Badibou and Upper Fuladu West referenced the long-standing nature of the Casamance conflict, calling for sustained diplomatic engagement with Senegal to safeguard Gambian border communities.
The 30-minute session concluded with members expressing solidarity with displaced families and urging swift government intervention to address both the humanitarian and security challenges along the southern border.
The Assembly emphasised the need for coordinated national action to protect citizens and uphold The Gambia’s sovereignty amid ongoing cross-border tensions.
