Gambia: Tourism Board Suspends Beach Events As Workers Warn of Lost Income

What the report says

The Gambia Tourism Board has suspended open-air music and other public entertainment events in the Tourism Development Area, including the Senegambia and Bijilo beach belt, according to a report by Foroyaa distributed by AllAfrica. The directive takes effect immediately and stays in place until further notice. It covers concerts, beach parties, festivals and similar activities in an area the board oversees under tourism law.

The board said the move is a precaution linked to safety and security concerns in the tourism zone. In statements cited by Foroyaa, officials said they were working with the Tourism Security Unit and other agencies to investigate recent misconduct and identify anyone involved in unlawful activity. They also urged promoters, businesses and the public to follow official instructions and report suspicious behavior.

Beach workers and self-employed vendors, often referred to locally as bumsters, said the suspension could sharply reduce their earnings as the tourism season approaches. A canteen owner and other workers interviewed by Foroyaa argued that music, dancing and related entertainment help attract visitors and support their livelihoods. While some acknowledged reports of theft and attacks in the area, they said the response should be stronger security and closer cooperation with workers rather than a blanket ban.

The dispute highlights a wider tension in The Gambia’s tourism industry between maintaining a safe visitor environment and protecting the income of people who depend on beach activity for work. The board said any review of the suspension would be announced through official channels.