Traditionally, it has been a common practice to offer gifts to Alkalolu and Chiefs as a token of appreciation for services rendered.
However, it has come to the attention of the Lands Ministry that some Alkalolu and Chiefs have been charging fees for land transactions.This practice has no legal basis. It is therefore, unlawful for Alkalolu and Chiefs to be charging fees for land transactions.
The Minister emphasises that while gifts as a gesture of gratitude were permissible within the cultural context, charging fees for land transactions is not only unlawful but totally against the principles of fairness and transparency in land dealings.
In light of this, the Minister urges all Alkalolu and Chiefs to adhere to the laws governing land transactions and refrain from imposing any form of fee or levy on such dealings. Any such unauthorised charges are considered a violation of the law and will not be tolerated.
The Ministry of Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs remains committed to upholding the rule of law, ensuring equitable access to land resources, and promoting good governance in land administration.
Signed:
Ebrima G. Sankareh
The Gambia Government Spokesperson& Presidential Diaspora Adviser
