Ceesay highlighted a recent assessment conducted by the Gambian Commission for Refugees (GCR), Gambia Food and Nutrition Association (GAFNA), and the UNHCR Senegal Multi-Country Office. The study revealed that 87% of the residents lack documentation from any other country, while almost all (98.9%) consider The Gambia their home. This unresolved status restricts access to basic services, including healthcare, education, and formal employment, leaving the community vulnerable to discrimination, harassment, and marginalisation.
The member urged the government to simplify the naturalisation process, grant Gambian nationality to long-term residents, and reform the country’s citizenship laws to ensure that children born to stateless parents are officially recognised. “These residents have contributed to our society for decades. They deserve legal recognition, protection, and a sense of belonging,” Ceesay said.
Several members spoke in support of the motion. Honorable Alhagie Mbowe, representing Upper Saloum, stressed that statelessness is a global issue and noted that Gambian laws, particularly the 1997 Constitution and the 2005 Children’s Act, are not sufficient to address the problem. He called for alignment with international instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the African Union protocol on eradication of statelessness, to ensure that children born to stateless parents can acquire citizenship.
Honorable Musa Badjie, Member for Tallinding Kunjang, emphasised that the residents of Ghana Town are already stateless, not just at risk. He called for affirmative action, starting with naturalisation, to address decades of marginalisation. “We cannot stand by while citizens of this country are denied their rights simply because of the circumstances of their birth,” he said.
Member for Foni Berefet, Hon Amie Colley, called for urgent reform, noting that the community has been in the country since the 1950s. She highlighted that many residents work as teachers and nurses but face daily challenges due to lack of documentation, including access to land and services.
Hon. Yahya Sanyang, member for Latrikunda Sabiji, criticised the government for failing to respect international conventions, pointing out instances where residents were denied ID cards but issued voter cards during elections.
While most speakers advocated immediate action, a few offered a different perspective. Honorable Lamin Ceesay of Kiang West urged adherence to national laws, noting that the constitution provides for naturalisation after 15 years of residence and encouraging residents to apply under the existing framework.
Nominated Members Kebba Lang Fofana stressed that while legal avenues exist, Parliament must also ensure that laws are applied fairly and free from political manipulation.
He underscored that citizenship is a right, not a privilege, and that no community contributing to national development should be denied recognition, however due process should be followed.
The session concluded with calls for the government and National Assembly to act swiftly, review relevant laws, and provide a clear path for the residents of Ghana Town to secure their legal status.
