Earlier today, the Deputy Mayor of Banjul, Hon. Abdou Aziz Dabakh Gaye, representing Her Worship the Lord Mayor, Rohey Malick Lowe, together with the Chief Executive Officer of Banjul City Council, Mr. Modou Jonga, convened a high-level stakeholders’ and task force meeting to further address the recent fire incident at Royal Albert Market. The engagement follows earlier meetings held on 23rd October and 5th November, which laid the groundwork for a coordinated response and clear timelines.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including the National Disaster Management Agency, Fire and Rescue Services, The Gambia Police Force, NAWEC, the Royal Albert Market Local Management Committee, as well as Banjul City Council management and senior staff, with the Executive Coordinator ably represented by his Deputy. All stakeholders actively contributed, sharing institutional perspectives, operational realities, and technical inputs aimed at strengthening response, recovery, and prevention.
During the session, the Deputy Mayor delivered a comprehensive recap of the fire outbreak, outlining how the incident unfolded, the immediate response, the impact on traders, and the actions taken so far. He also briefed stakeholders on the visit by His Excellency President Adama Barrow to the affected site, his expressed concern, and his commitment to ensuring a thorough assessment and concrete interventions to safeguard lives and livelihoods. On behalf of Her Worship the Lord Mayor and Banjul City Council, the Deputy Mayor formally conveyed the Council’s appreciation and gratitude to His Excellency for his leadership, concern, and prompt attention to the matter. The visit by Vice President Muhammed B.S. Jallow further underscored the seriousness with which the issue is being treated at the highest level of leadership.
Following the Deputy Mayor’s briefing, the Chief Executive Officer led stakeholders through the technical aspects, including the agreed activities, timelines, and coordination framework developed from earlier engagements. It was emphasized that the Task Force will undertake rapid assessments, including structural damage evaluations and related technical reviews, with all relevant institutions playing their respective roles. These efforts will culminate in a comprehensive report to guide informed decisions and long-term preventive measures.
Banjul City Council reaffirms its full commitment to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure this process translates into practical action, accountability, and safer, more resilient markets for the people of Banjul.
