His
Excellency, President Adama Barrow has approved the closure of the border
between the Republic of The Gambia and the Republic of Senegal, effective
midnight, Monday, 23 March 2020, according to a news release from State House
on 21 March. The decision follows a series of consultations and an update from
the Ministerial Committee on the coronovirus (covid-19).
The decision
for the closure of the border was taken considering the rapid spread of COVID
-19 in the world and in our region, and the continuous movement of people
posing high risk of contracting the disease.
The Government of the Republic of The Gambia and the Republic of Senegal
have mutually agreed to close their borders for a period of 21 days in the bid
to contain the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
The public is
hereby informed that the closure will not affect essential services, such as
movement of security personnel, foodstuff, medical services, related items and
equipment between the two countries.
Furthermore, the Republic of the Gambia has
decided to close its airspace for all flights except for medical cargo
flights. This closure will also begin
midnight on Monday, 23 March 2020, for a period of 21 days.
Meanwhile, President Barrow reiterates his
commendation to the national response teams and committees, all the frontline
workers, community and religious leaders, political leaders, the business
community, all citizens and people living in The Gambia for their cooperation
and standing with his government during these trying times. The President further urges all to take
responsibility to prevent, contain and manage the coronavirus.
