The Government of the Gambia has planned to provide fishing boats and build a permanent police station at Jinnack, North Bank Region, to tackle two major issues: cannabis cultivation and irregular migration.
Jinnack has been identified as a hotspot for irregular migration, with many young Gambians attempting to reach Europe through the Atlantic route.
Speaking on West Coast Radio today during the government’s weekly update, Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, Dr Ismaila Ceesay, said the initiative is intended to provide alternative livelihoods for residents who have historically relied on cannabis farming.
Minister Ceesay said the government hopes by providing alternative livelihoods, such as fishing, and strengthening law enforcement, they can reduce the number of people risking their lives on the ‘backway’ perilous journeys.
He emphasised the plan also targets cannabis cultivation, which is illegal in The Gambia. The Drug Law Enforcement Agency (DLEAG) has been cracking down on cannabis farms, and the new police station would likely enhance these efforts.
“It’s a multifaceted approach, addressing both the symptoms and root causes of irregular migration, such as unemployment and lack of opportunities,” he noted.
He indicated that the government is also working with international partners, like the European Union, to combat human trafficking and provide support to affected communities.
The Information minister highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing the root causes of irregular migration. “It’s a multifaceted approach, targeting both economic and law enforcement aspects,” he added.
According to him, the police station aims to strengthen security and deter illicit activities, citing recent operations by the Drug Law Enforcement Agency that destroyed 60 cannabis farms and 14 bags of cannabis in the area.
He mentioned that the government would combine law enforcement with community engagement programs to promote sustainable, legal livelihoods.
“Cannabis has been the primary source of livelihood for many people on the island for years. The government’s intervention seeks to support livelihood diversification by providing fishing boats to interested villagers,” Ceesay said. “In addition, NAWEC will electrify the village, providing essential social amenities and opening opportunities for trade and investment.”
