By Alieu Ceesay
The Gambia Car Dealers Association is sounding the alarm over the central government’s failure to honor a promised land allocation in Yundum. They say this action threatens dealers’ livelihoods and the economic contributions of the car sales industry. The contested site, dubbed Car City, was designated for vehicle sales to boost customer accessibility, but its future remains in limbo, sparking frustration and threats of protests.
Talibeh Cham, Public Relations Officer for the Gambia Car Dealers Association, revealed that the association invested nearly one million Dalasi in developing Car City, a commitment acknowledged by the authorities. The land, allocated through the Ministry of Lands, was intended to serve as a centralized hub for car sales, capitalizing on its strategic location. However, recent government actions have cast doubt on the dealers’ ability to continue operations there, prompting calls for urgent dialogue.
“We call on the government to uphold the principles of fairness, accountability, and the rule of law in its dealings with private associations,” Cham declared during a press conference. He warned that arbitrary decisions risk undermining investor confidence and stifling economic growth in The Gambia, where the car-dealing industry has become vital. “Transparency is critical. We need clarity on our land situation, and we will not be intimidated into silence,” he added.
The car-dealing sector has gained significant traction in recent years, with strategically located dealerships nationwide creating jobs for countless young Gambians. The industry also contributes substantially to government revenue through customs fees for every imported vehicle. For dealers like Momodou Mustapha Drammeh, the potential loss of Car City is more than a business setback—it directly threatens their families’ survival.
“If the government removes us from this site, many people will lose their jobs,” Drammeh said, his voice heavy with concern. “We have families to support. We’re asking for assistance to keep Car City operational, where we can sell our cars and sustain our livelihoods.” His plea underscores the broader socioeconomic impact of the government’s indecision, which dealers fear could ripple across the industry.
The Gambia Car Dealers Association has long sought to foster a collaborative relationship with the government, working to strengthen partnerships since its inception. Yet, the recent push to relocate dealers from Car City has left them feeling sidelined. The Ministry of Lands proposed an alternative site in Kotu. Still, dealers swiftly rejected it, citing its distance from the main highway and lack of visibility—critical factors for their business model.
“Everywhere in the world, car dealers are given prime locations,” said Karafa Darboe, a vocal association member. “We need visibility to attract customers. Relocating us to Kotu is not a viable option.” Darboe’s frustration reflects a broader sentiment among dealers, who have been grappling with the land allocation issue for over three years without resolution.
Tensions are nearing a boiling point, with dealers signaling they are prepared to escalate their response. Momodou S. Jallow delivered a stark warning at the press conference: “This will be our last press conference; next time, we will be going for a protest.” The statement underscores the growing impatience among dealers, who feel their contributions to The Gambia’s economy—through taxes and job creation—are being overlooked.
As the standoff continues, the Gambia Car Dealers Association remains steadfast in its demand for a fair and transparent resolution. The outcome of this dispute will determine the fate of Car City and signal the government’s commitment to supporting private enterprises and fostering economic stability in The Gambia. For now, dealers are holding their ground, determined to protect their livelihoods and secure the future of their industry.
