The Banjul City Council is responding to a fire outbreak that occurred few hours ago at the Albert Market causing significant damages. My Deputy Mayor Abdul Aziz Gaye was on site providing moral support and other essential needs.
This devastating fire incident occurred around 11pm at the Sandika area near the beach end, mostly occupied by carpentry workshops.
Our hearts are heavy as it left behind extensive damages and loss. It is not just a fire, it is peopleβs sweat, years of work, and daily bread reduced to ashes, that reality is terrifying.
We stand in deep solidarity with all those who have lost their livelihoods and properties tonight and i wish to sincerely commend the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service, the State House Fire Unit, and all emergency responders who worked relentlessly through the night.
I also pay special tribute to the brave young men and women of the market community who, without hesitation, fetched water from the river and did everything humanly possible to help contain the fire until it was brought under control. That courage matters, That spirit matters, That is Banjul.
My profound appreciation also goes to Executive Coordinator Ebrima Jawo, and our newly appointed first ever female AIG Madam Amie Nyassi, and all service personnel and individuals who showed up on site at such a late hour to stand with our people.
Moving forward, I have directed my tireless Deputy Mayor to immediately engage all relevant stakeholders, including the National Disaster Management Agency, to assess the cause of the fire and determine the full extent of the damage.
Banjul has been through storms before. We mourn tonight but we will respond together.
