The Gambian government has announced the reinstatement of the 50-meter restrictions on public spaces, effective midnight, Sunday, April 14, 2024.

In a statement released by the government spokesperson and Presidential Diaspora Adviser, Ebrima G. Sankareh, it was revealed that President Adama Barrow has decided to reinstate the restrictions after a 20-day moratorium. This moratorium, motivated by humanitarian concerns and in line with the spirit of the Ramadan season, allowed citizens and businesses to trade peacefully in preparation for the recently concluded Eid ul Fitr feast, locally known as “Koriteh.”

The Gambia Government wishes to inform the public that His Excellency, President Adama Barrow, will restore the 50-metre restrictions on all public spaces across the country effective midnight, Sunday 14 April, 2024. The 20-day Presidential moratorium, purely motivated by humanitarian considerations and consistent with the spirit of the Holy month of Ramadan, allowed citizens and members of the business community to peacefully trade among themselves in preparation for the just concluded Eid ul Fitr feast, locally called “Koriteh.” the statement reads.

In response to this reinstatement, the government has indicated that the Presidential Taskforce, responsible for clearing public areas of any obstructions, will immediately restart their operations across the country.

The government asserts that there will be no deviations from this policy. It appeals for the public’s collaboration with the Taskforce, as this operation is designed to improve public safety, health standards, and infrastructure integrity, all contributing to our collective well-being. Business entities that benefited from the temporary suspension are reminded to dispose of any litter accumulated during the past two weeks to safeguard public health.

“There will be no exceptions. Therefore, the public is urged to cooperate with the Taskforce as the exercise is aimed at enhancing public safety, public health and infrastructure quality towards our common prosperity. Accordingly, members of the business community who enjoyed this opportunity are reminded to clean up all debris that has accumulated over the past two weeks for the general healthcare of the public,” they concluded.