The Mile 7 High Court in Bakau is set for a major transformation following the official foundation stone-laying ceremony for its rehabilitation and expansion project, held on Thursday, 2nd October.
The event was presided over by Chief Justice Hassan B. Jallow, alongside EU Ambassador to The Gambia, Her Excellency Immaculada Roca-I-Cortes, and UNDP Resident Representative Ms Mandisa Mashologu. It brought together senior government officials and members of the diplomatic corps.
The construction, which runs from 19 September 2025 to 31 October 2026, is funded under the EU–UNDP GREAT Project. The initiative seeks to improve access to justice by strengthening institutional capacity, modernising infrastructure, and fostering a fair and transparent legal system.
Chief Justice Jallow hailed the strong collaboration between the EU, the UNDP and the Gambian judiciary, noting their extensive support in capacity building, law reform and the implementation of the judiciary’s strategic plan.
He emphasised that infrastructure development remains a key challenge, citing the shortage of quality courtrooms.
Upon completion of the project, he stated that the criminal division of the High Court in Banjul will be relocated to the upgraded Mile 7 facility.
The Chief Justice also appealed for continued support in introducing electronic case management systems, court transcription services, and updated practice rules for the High Court.
UNDP Resident Representative Mandisa Mashologu highlighted the uniqueness of The Gambia’s legal framework, which combines statutory, Islamic, and customary law.
She underscored the role of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Secretariat (ADRS) as a bridge between formal courts, Cadi courts, and traditional tribunals.
Ms Mashologu noted that a 2024 capacity needs assessment identified gaps in mediation, negotiation, institutional visibility, and resources within ADRS.
The GREAT initiative, she said, is addressing these needs through training and capacity-building, ultimately easing pressure on formal courts while ensuring affordable and accessible justice.
EU Ambassador Immaculada Roca-I-Cortes emphasised that the expanded Mile 7 High Court will also house the Special Criminal Division tasked with addressing past human rights violations. She described the project as both a practical and symbolic milestone for justice, reconciliation, and human rights protection in The Gambia.
“Our commitment is to a justice system that is inclusive, independent, and gender-responsive, one that protects the rights of all, including women, children, and persons with disabilities,” the Ambassador said.
She stressed that the upgraded court will not only improve infrastructure but also enhance public confidence and dignity in the justice system.
