New Urban Markets Bill aims to improve sanitation, infrastructure

The proposed legislation seeks to provide a legal framework for the establishment, administration and regulation of urban markets while promoting orderly, safe and efficient market operations within communities.

According to the Objects and Reasons of the Bill, it aims to improve hygiene, waste management and public health standards in public markets, while strengthening the role of local government councils in the planning, maintenance and supervision of market facilities.

The Bill also seeks to ensure that markets have adequate infrastructure and services, including water supply, lighting, security and sanitation facilities to improve conditions for traders and the public.

Beyond infrastructure improvements, the legislation promotes participatory governance by involving traders, councils and other stakeholders in market management. It also seeks to support livelihoods by creating organised trading spaces that encourage economic activity.

Seconding the motion, Hon. Sulayman Sawo, Member for Central Badibu, described the Bill as timely and important but urged lawmakers to ensure that it benefits markets beyond urban areas.

"I think when we come down to the committee stage, we have to look into the Bill so that the Bill will be inclusive. It's not going to leave any Gambian market behind. Both the local and the rural and the urban areas have the same problem," Hon. Sawo said.

He stressed that the legislation should address challenges faced by markets across the country, adding that "what is good for the goose is good for the gander."

Responding to the concern, Hon. Musa Cham said the issue had been noted and assured lawmakers that necessary amendments would be considered during the committee stage.

The National Assembly subsequently approved the second reading of the Urban Markets Bill 2026 and referred it to the Assembly Business Committee for further review before it returns to the House for the next stage of consideration.