Payment of “daily dues and operational licenses does not authorize businesses to occupy or settle in public areas,” according to the Kanifing Municipal Council. Those impacted by the ongoing demolition are urged to utilize available spaces in council-operated markets in Old Jeshwang, Abuko, Manjai, and other locations.

During its current intensive road cleansing operation, the government has demolished structures and kiosks that, according to it, were constructed unlawfully and in violation of building and road safety regulations.

The exercise gained widespread popularity, yet a considerable number of individuals are incensed that it has completely disrupted their daily lives. Others held KMC accountable for its exclusive focus on daily rate collection and failure to inform them of any unauthorized space occupation.

However, the KMC stated in a press release published yesterday that it has received multiple complaints from street vendors regarding the exercise and wishes to clarify that no new street vending allocations have been issued since 2019 when a resolution was passed to embargo all new street allocations in an effort to deter illegal encroachments and the resulting public nuisance.
“Management wishes to clarify that daily fees and operational licenses prohibit the occupation or establishment of any business in public areas.” Legislation mandates that all businesses operating within the Municipality remit daily fees or obtain an operational license, as applicable. Nevertheless, remitting these fees does not constitute a formally recognized assignment of the occupied space. All legal canteen allocations along the highway were completed prior to the 2019 embargo; therefore, they are all in a temporary state and may be requested to vacate at any time in the interest of the public by the council or government. The administration and leadership of the KMC extend their condolences to all affected business proprietors. The statement continued, “We should keep in mind that the ongoing exercise is in the public’s best interest, which takes precedence over any personal interests.”

Additionally, efforts are ongoing, according to the Council, to construct and expand markets in order to provide businesses with more space to set up kiosks.