The Gambia Tourism Board (GTBoard) and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture have expressed concern over recent incidents within the Tourism Development Area (TDA). These incidents have raised serious concerns regarding the safety and security of tourists and visitors. The move comes as The Gambia prepares for the official start of this year’s tourism season.
At a press briefing held on Monday at GTBoard, Director General Ida Jeng-Njie strongly reacted to disturbing videos being circulated online showing visitors being attacked in the country. She assured that the Board strongly condemns any act or behaviour that threatens the safety, security, dignity, or peaceful enjoyment of the tourism environment.
Jeng-Njie emphasized that The Gambia remains committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and secure destination for all visitors. Incidents that undermine this commitment will not be tolerated, she said. The GTBoard, in collaboration with the Tourism Security Unit (TSU), is taking the matter seriously and investigating the incidents.
Appropriate measures are being undertaken to establish the facts surrounding the incident and to ensure that those responsible are identified and that appropriate actions are taken. Jeng-Njie warned that any individual or group found to have violated the law or breached the standards and regulations governing the Tourism Development Area will face severe and appropriate action.
The Board and the Ministry call on all tourism stakeholders, businesses, residents, and members of the public to cooperate with the relevant authorities and report any suspicious, unlawful, or threatening behaviour. The security and safety of visitors is a shared responsibility, and everyone has a role to play in protecting the integrity and reputation of The Gambia’s tourism industry.
The Gambia Tourism Board reiterated its zero-tolerance position towards acts that compromise the safety and security of tourists, visitors, and the wider tourism community. The Board and the Ministry remain fully committed to working closely with the Tourism Security Unit and other relevant security agencies to strengthen security within the TDA.
The authorities urge everyone to remain calm and responsible while investigations continue. The Gambia is preparing for the official start of this year’s tourism season, with the country continuing to pride itself as a preferred spot in Africa. Key stakeholders are working together to ensure tourists and visitors can continue to enjoy The Gambia in a safe, peaceful, and welcoming environment.
Key points
- The Gambia Tourism Board has a zero-tolerance policy towards acts that compromise tourist safety.
- The Board is working with the Tourism Security Unit to strengthen security within the Tourism Development Area.
- Tourists and visitors are urged to report any suspicious behaviour to the relevant authorities.
