We are once again compelled to write about the situation befalling land ownership in this country which, to say the least, is alarming. This unprecedented situation has been creeping slowly, but surely into the fabric of Gambian society to the dismay of many.
Our point of focus is the rate at which simmering land cases increase in our courts. This is, of course, a cause for concern not only to the government of The Gambia, but the whole Gambian citizenry, who struggle day in, day out to make ends meet. Ordinary citizens now find it difficult to even own a plot of land in this country.
This does not tell well in a country where decades ago land used to be acquired by merely dishing out cola nuts to its traditional owners.
Lands must be made available, affordable and accessible to all citizens by means of legal mechanisms, and through the right channels.
Selling a plot of land to three or four different persons at the same time, as seen in many cases, is simply unacceptable.
It is, therefore, the responsibility of the Ministry of Lands and Local Government to address the issue by putting in place a proper mechanism to ensure that land is legally acquired to avoid unforeseeable circumstances.
Needless to say that urgent action should be taken to redress the issue, before it gets out of hand.
The public would also want to know the steps being taken by the Government to address this situation, if there are any.
It is our belief that only urgent action by the authorities can avert such abnormality.
“Our deeds determine us, as much as we determine our needs.”
George Eliot
