A well-known environmentalist in the Gambian capital Banjul is urging authorities to take immediate action as the city’s sewage system edges toward collapse, threatening marine life, public health and the livelihoods tied to the coastline.
Amadou W. Jallow says key parts of the system are failing both mechanically and in day-to-day management. According to him, untreated sewage is now flowing into the river through an underground pipeline behind the Atlantic Hotel, as well as drainage canals linked to the Bond Road pumping station at the Nawec facility in Box Bar.
Jallow explains that wastewater released into the Bond Road mangroves is already finding its way into the food chain. He warns that oysters gathered from the affected wetlands, along with fish and crabs that feed in the same area, are being sold in markets across the greater Banjul region.
“This is an immediate and serious threat to human health,” he told JollofNews.
He says the steady flow of raw sewage is damaging the mangrove and wetland ecosystem, which serves as a breeding and nursery zone for many marine species. Long term, this could weaken the area’s biodiversity and make local habitats less able to recover from shocks.
The impact is already being felt. Fishermen and women who depend on these waters are reporting declining catches and growing concerns from buyers. Contaminated seafood is undermining consumer trust and putting pressure on a sector that remains central to the economies of both Banjul and the wider country.
Jallow is calling on the relevant ministries and agencies to mobilise resources for a full technical assessment of the failing infrastructure. He says this is essential to understand the scale of the damage and to guide an effective response.
“Swift action is needed to protect the health of our citizens, safeguard marine life and support the communities whose livelihoods rely on these waters,” he said.
He adds that the situation has moved beyond an environmental problem and may now be a broader public health and economic emergency. Jallow insists the government and responsible institutions must act without delay to prevent deeper harm to the environment, the population and the national economy.
