The Gambia Tourism Board (hereinafter referred to as “GT Board”) has issued formal notices to Beach Bars operating without authorization within the Tourism Development Area (TDA), marking a significant step in enforcing regulatory compliance within the country’s premier tourism zone.
The notice, issued under reference AWG 279/404/01 (112), addresses concerns regarding unauthorized occupation of land and unlicensed operations within the TDA, which extends from Kotu to Kartong, covering an area 800 meters inland from the high-water mark.
The GT Board has reiterated that all lands within the TDA fall under its exclusive jurisdiction pursuant to Section 46(1) of the Gambia Tourism Board Act, 2011, reinforced by Section 27 of the State Lands Act subsidiary legislation. The area is reserved exclusively for regulated tourism development.
Therefore, any occupation or operation within the Tourism Development Area without proper authorization from the Board constitutes unlawful activity and undermines the Board’s efforts to maintain standards within the tourism sector.
All Beach Bar and Restaurant Operators have been directed.
- Contact the GT Board immediately to regularize their occupation status
- Apply for and obtain appropriate tourism operating licenses as required under Section 32 of the Gambia Tourism Board Act, 2011, and Regulation 94 of the Tourism Regulations 2011
Failure to comply may result in administrative and legal enforcement measures, including potential closure of operations.
This enforcement action reflects the GT Board’s commitment to ensuring orderly development and maintaining quality standards within The Gambia’s tourism sector. The Board continues to work closely with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture and all other relevant stakeholders to protect the integrity of the Tourism Development Area.
All Beach Bars and Restaurants seeking to regularize their status are encouraged to contact and submit all relevant documents with a cover letter addressed to:
The Gambia Tourism Board is the statutory body responsible for regulating, promoting, and developing tourism in The Gambia, operating under the Gambia Tourism Board Act, 2011.
The Director General
Gambia Tourism Board
Kotu,
P.O Box 4085, Bakau
Kanifing Municipality, The Gambia.
Email: info@gtboard.gm
Tel: (220)4462 490 / 1/5 /6
Fax: (220) 4462 487
