"We have approved the Rent Act; however, enforcement is still a challenge. The unprecedented rent charges are making vulnerable people pay a heavy price. Some of these houses where huge prices are charged were here when a bag of cement cost less than D50, and they are still charging high price," she observed.
"Something needs to be done from the side of the government to help vulnerable Gambians. They should ensure the enforcement of the Rent Act to ease burden on the citizens," she stressed.
The Rent Act 2024 was tabled by member for Serrekunda West, Madi Ceesay. The bill seeks to make amendments to address the plight of tenants with issues such as frequent increment of rents, high rent and to ensure that the rights of the tenants are respected and tenants are treated humanely.
Speaking to The Point, Amadou Camara, a tenant said the rent issue is becoming unbearable. "My landlord increases rent almost every six months without any renovation. l expect at least an upgrade regarding the rooms but the house remains the same while rent hikes," he laments.
He urges authorities to ensure the Rent Act is reflective on the lives of ordinary citizens. "We are already battling with so many challenges in the country; we are dealing with price hikes of almost everything and rent is not excluded. Even if you are going to increase rent, let that go along with upgrading of the house."
Doudu Bah, also a tenant, said the Rent Act has no effect on them (tenants). "I am a low income earner with a family of four. The country is going through a lot and we don't need landlords to be increasing the rent anytime they wish. I am paying D6,500 for a two bed rooms and a parlor. This is cheaper compared to other places but it is still a challenge because I am a low earner."
Sang Gomez, a landlord who owns an apartment, said he gives his fully furnished homes for D1,500 per day. "I have everything a room needs in there. There is an inverter, microwave and wifi among others. We do so many expenses to make sure the houses are up to standard. Therefore, the price is considered reasonable compared to others. I see people give out rooms with lower standard for D2,500 per day; prices differ and tenants should be able to understand that the challenge is everywhere. We are also responsible for bills such as water, electricity and repairing damages among others," he said.
The Rent Bill also seeks to amend clause 19, which states: “A landlord shall not increase the rent for the rental premises;
- at a rate of more than five percent in every three years or such other rates as may be prescribed by the Minister by Notice published in the gazette, and subject to the condition of the facility;
- at an interval of less than thirty-six months.”
The Bill also seeks to address a situation in which tenants are asked to pay in foreign currencies notably in US Dollar.
