The Gambia, known as The Smiling Coast of Africa, is a nation admired for its culture, beauty, and welcoming spirit. Yet, behind this reputation lies a troubling issue that is damaging the country’s image abroad: the rise of ‘bumsters’ who exploit foreigners through deceitful romance and financial scams.
As the Founder and President of GambiWives Association, a registered CBO and upcoming NGO in The Gambia with an all-Gambian board, and GambiWives Inc. in the United States, I have seen first-hand how many foreigners have fallen victim to this behavior. Too many women leave The Gambia heartbroken, exploited, and financially drained by Gambian individuals who pretend to offer love while secretly using it as a tool for survival.
This growing problem must be addressed if The Gambia is to protect its reputation, safeguard tourism, and build healthier cultural relationships.
The need for accountability
Foreigners should not be treated as an escape route or financial lifeline. Embassies in The Gambia and Senegal should begin accepting and investigating reports of romance scams with proof, names, and pictures of perpetrators. Such individuals should face restrictions, including bans on visas and opportunities abroad.
At the same time, Cadi courts, marriage elders, and imams must be vigilant in preventing fraudulent marriages, and the police and judiciary should consider stronger penalties for those who deceive foreigners for financial gain.
A challenge to leadership
The underlying cause of this issue is clear: a lack of opportunities for Gambian youth. Many turn to foreigners because they see no better options at home. Unfortunately, policies to address this reality have been slow and ineffective.
Despite years in office, President Adama Barrow’s government has not done enough to create sustainable jobs or raise wages to give young Gambians hope for a brighter future. Without real solutions, the cycle of exploitation will continue.
The people of The Gambia deserve leadership that prioritizes education, youth empowerment, and economic opportunities. This is the only way to break the dependency mindset that fuels bumster culture.
A call to action
As a Muslim, a humanitarian, and an advocate for Gambian families, I urge:
Government leaders to create sustainable youth programs and jobs.
Embassies to work with civil society to document and act on cases of exploitation.
Courts, elders and Imams to protect the integrity of marriage and expose shameful/fake unions.
Communities to recognize the damage this behavior causes to The Gambia’s image.
If we do not address this urgently, The Gambia risks losing its international reputation as a safe and welcoming destination. It is time to protect both the dignity of Gambians and the trust of foreigners who come here with good intentions.
By Ishisha Hickman is the Founder & President of GambiWives Association (The Gambia) & GambiWives Inc. (USA)
