By Nelson Manneh and Ebrima Jabang
Public littering in The Gambia has become an alarming menace, undermining the very purpose of the Anti-Littering Act of 2007. Enacted to combat indiscriminate waste disposal, this law now stands as a toothless relic, ignored by citizens and authorities alike, leaving the environment vulnerable to degradation.
The primary function of any law is to regulate human behaviour and ensure coexistence in a sustainable environment. This is particularly crucial when the constitution enshrines the right to life, as stated in Section 18 of the 1997 Constitution, making environmental protection a fundamental prerequisite for the enjoyment of life itself.
Despite its intent, the Anti-Littering Act remains largely unenforced, rendering public spaces littered with garbage, plastics, and other waste. From gutters to markets, streets to driveways, the country appears to be drowning in a sea of rubbish.
The law explicitly penalizes offenders. Section 4 categorizes depositing litter in public spaces as an offense, punishable by fine up to D5,000. Section 5 goes further, addressing the habit of passengers and drivers throwing litter from vehicles, with penalties reaching D10,000. However, the lack of enforcement has emboldened this behavior, turning Gambia into what some have called a “Mbalit State.”
Environmental activist Lamain Fadera laments, “The rampant littering stems not from ignorance but from the belief that the government will not act. The system is corrupt, and enforcement is non-existent.”
United Patriots for Change (UPC), a student-driven environmental group, has taken up the mantle. In collaboration with Hon. Musa Cham, National Assembly Member for Serrekunda, the group organized a massive cleanup at Serrekunda Hospital and its surrounding streets. Their efforts, however, were overshadowed by the overwhelming volume of litter they encountered.
“It’s disheartening to see the disregard for public spaces. The government has failed to enforce its own laws, leaving the burden on citizens,” said a representative of UPC.
Rwanda’s success in combating plastic pollution offers valuable lessons. The country implemented a nationwide ban on plastic bags, coupled with strict enforcement, public awareness campaigns, and eco-friendly alternatives. These measures not only reduced waste but fostered a sense of responsibility among citizens and created green jobs.
“Rwanda’s proactive approach shows that strong leadership, public education, and enforcement can transform a nation’s environmental landscape,” noted the Global Green Growth Institute.
Many Gambians are calling for the immediate implementation of the Anti-Littering Act. Vendors like Mariama Fatty argue that public littering has been normalized, making it harder to combat. “People think it’s the government’s job to clean up after they littered places. Sensitization and strict enforcement of the law are needed to change this mindset,” she said.
Others, like Lamin Ngum, who operates a café, blame societal habits. “I provided bins for trash, but people still threw garbage beside them. It’s a systemic issue that only enforcement can address.”
The Barrow administration has faced harsh criticism for its failure to prioritize environmental laws. During a recent nationwide tour, President Barrow acknowledged the littering crisis, promising to authorize enforcement of the Anti-Littering Act.
However, promises alone are insufficient. Environmental activists and citizens alike emphasize the need for decisive action. “Refusing to enforce this law shows a disregard for the environment and the people’s right to a clean and healthy life,” said a UPC representative.
The Anti-Littering Act of 2007 must move beyond being a symbolic gesture. Effective enforcement, public education, and collaboration between citizens and authorities are crucial to curbing this menace. The government must also consider banning plastics and promoting eco-friendly alternatives, as demonstrated by Rwanda’s success.
“The time for action is now,” urged Fadera. “Gambia’s future depends on its actions.”
