The Ministry of Forestry and Environment is preparing a comprehensive policy to tighten regulations on the importation of used vehicle tyres and secondhand vehicles as part of a broader effort to combat environmental pollution and improve waste management across the country.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Forestry and Environment, Rohey John Manjang, during the annual Mansakunda Town Hall Meeting held on Friday at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo. The public engagement was organised by the Ministry of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services.
Addressing residents and stakeholders, Minister Manjang said the growing influx of used tyres has become a serious environmental concern, citing the difficulties associated with recycling them and the pollution they generate when improperly disposed of.
According to the minister, discarded tyres often end up in open dumps or are illegally burned, releasing hazardous chemicals into the air and posing significant risks to public health and the environment.
To address the challenge, the ministry is developing a strategy aimed at reducing the volume of used tyres entering the country, thereby easing pressure on the nation’s waste management systems.
In addition to targeting used tyres, the proposed policy will also introduce tighter controls on the importation of secondhand vehicles. Minister Manjang disclosed that the government intends to establish maximum mileage limits for imported vehicles in an effort to reduce emissions from ageing, high-polluting automobiles.
“The plan is aimed at addressing the influx of old vehicles into the country as part of efforts to mitigate pollution,” she said.
The proposed mileage restrictions are expected to prevent end-of-life vehicles with excessive wear and high emissions from entering the Gambian market while encouraging the importation of newer, more fuel-efficient vehicles.
Although the minister confirmed that the policy is currently being drafted, she did not specify the mileage threshold that will be adopted or indicate when the new regulations are expected to come into force.
If implemented, the measures would represent one of The Gambia’s most significant environmental policy initiatives in recent years, reflecting the government’s increasing focus on reducing pollution, improving air quality, and promoting sustainable waste management.
The proposed regulations are also expected to have implications for vehicle importers, dealers, and consumers, many of whom rely on the importation of used vehicles. Further details are expected once the draft policy is finalised and presented for implementation.
