By Kebba AF Touray
The three National Assembly committees of Agriculture, Environment, and Security have been assigned to investigate the intrusion, security, and forest land threats caused by herders who cross into the Gambia from other countries.
This comes after the Member for Baddibu Central Hon Sulayman Saho moved a motion about the matter.
Hon. Saho asked: “Is the Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources aware of the environmental hazards caused by sheep herders who crossed into Gambia and if so, what actions could be taken to stop the act now, as it is generating violence within our communities and among the people?’’
Minister Manjang, in her response, noted the matter and assured that they will work with their fellow relevant Ministries to address the menace.
Lawmakers during their intervention on the matter also raised serious concern and alleged that the intrusion threatens the security of communities especially those along the borders, and the country’s forest lands.
Moving the motion under Standing Order 53 (K) of the National Assembly, Hon. Saho said the National Assembly should task the Select committees on Agriculture, Environment and Security to probe into the matter, and submit its findings to the plenary. Hon. Saho justified that the matter is of grave concern and is leading to conflicts in certain Gambian communities, especially between women vegetable growers and herders, “as seen in certain countries within the sub-region, it is creating a lot of violence in communities.”
After the adoption of the motion, the three committees will now investigate the matter, and report their findings to the plenary for subsequent remedial action within 90 days or approximately three months.
