The Gambia Tourism Board (GT Board) has launched a major enforcement drive against unauthorized Beach Bars operating within the country’s Tourism Development Area (TDA), signaling a renewed push to safeguard standards in the nation’s premier tourism zone.
Formal notices, issued under reference AWG 279/404/01 (112), warn operators occupying land or running businesses without proper authorization that they are in violation of the law. The TDA stretches from Kotu to Kartong, covering 800 meters inland from the high-water mark, and is reserved exclusively for regulated tourism development.
According to the GT Board, all lands within the TDA fall under its jurisdiction as outlined in Section 46(1) of the Gambia Tourism Board Act, 2011, and reinforced by Section 27 of the State Lands Act. Any unlicensed occupation or operation is deemed unlawful and undermines efforts to maintain quality standards in the tourism sector.
Operators have been directed to immediately contact the GT Board to regularize their status and apply for the required tourism operating licenses under Section 32 of the GT Board Act, 2011, and Regulation 94 of the Tourism Regulations, 2011. Failure to comply could lead to administrative and legal enforcement measures, including closure of operations.
The GT Board emphasized that this action reflects its commitment to orderly development and the protection of the integrity of the TDA. The Board continues to collaborate with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture and other stakeholders to ensure the area remains a hub for regulated, high-quality tourism.
Beach Bar and Restaurant operators seeking to regularize their operations are advised to submit documents with a cover letter to the Director General at the GT Board headquarters in Kotu, or contact the Board via email at info@gtboard.gm or telephone at 220-4462
