By Nelson Manneh
Gambian students studying in the Islamic Republic of Mauritania have voiced their frustrations and concerns regarding numerous challenges, including difficulties in accessing necessary documentation and experiences of indiscriminate arrests and detentions by the authorities.
These students described the situation as a persistent state of fear instigated by Mauritanian officials. Mr. Essa Jammeh, an Islamic studies and Arabic language student, remarked, “We feel like we are constantly walking on eggshells. There is hardly a week that goes by without a Gambian facing harassment at the hands of the Mauritanian authorities.”
He noted that conditions have deteriorated significantly in 2025, as the Mauritanian government has intensified the enforcement of residential permits for foreign nationals. “This treatment is unjust. While Mauritanians living in The Gambia enjoy freedom and peace, Gambians here are subjected to bullying and discrimination,” he claimed.
Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts and calls for assistance from the Gambian community, Jammeh lamented that little has changed. “Every day, Gambians are arrested and held in police custody, including women and children,” he stated, calling attention to the dire situation.
Jammeh shared his personal struggle, stating, “I have been trying to obtain a residential permit for months, but to no avail. We recently spent days queuing for a free permit offered by the Islamic ministry, but ultimately, we were unsuccessful.”
While the exact conditions facing Gambian students in Mauritania remain unclear, the Gambian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has acknowledged the situation. Officials confirmed that they are monitoring developments and advised Gambians, particularly students, to remain law-abiding citizens during their stay.
The Ministry underscored the importance of maintaining strong bilateral relations between The Gambia and Mauritania, encouraging cooperation and understanding from Gambian nationals in the country.
