By Adama Makasuba
Under the leadership of the Minister of Lands, Local Government, and Religious Affairs, Hamat Bah, the Gambian government is keenly aware of the housing crisis affecting the country’s underprivileged citizens, particularly those in the security sector. They are preparing to initiate a project to construct 200,000 housing units before the upcoming presidential election. However, there is doubt among opposition figures as to whether the project will indeed become a reality.
During the inauguration ceremony of a two-classroom block at the Gambia police barracks at Police Line in Banjul, Hamat Bah addressed the challenges faced by retired police officers and members of the Gambia Armed forces. He expressed concern that many retired officers need housing due to limited options after dedicating 25-30 years of service to their country. Bah aspires to see the government lay the foundation stone for this housing project by December 2025. The objective is to ensure that when public service workers, including police and military officers, retire, they can access affordable housing. This initiative is perceived as providing each Gambian with a respectable home.
Bah has stated that housing is a fundamental right for every citizen, and the government is devoted to fulfilling this duty. He stressed that the government’s aim is not only to provide low-cost housing but to develop affordable housing that all Gambians can take pride in living in, thus fostering hope for a brighter future.
