River Gambia Under Threat, Researcher Warns, Citing Industrial Fishing and Policy Inaction

Mustapha Manneh

By Makutu Manneh

Mustapha Manneh, a researcher and investigative journalist, has raised alarm over the deteriorating condition of the River Gambia, warning that the country’s most important natural resource is on the verge of ecological collapse and requires urgent intervention.

Speaking during a recent interview on Kerr Fatou, Manneh said declining fish stocks have made fish increasingly scarce, turning what was once a staple food into a luxury for many Gambians. He attributed the shortage not only to rising prices but also to dwindling availability, noting that some local fishermen have abandoned traditional fishing and are instead using their wooden boats to embark on irregular migration journeys across the Atlantic.

Manneh also cited the activities of foreign industrial fishing vessels operating in Gambian waters as a major contributor to the river’s worsening condition. He accused the government of showing little interest in safeguarding the river and failing to fully recognize its economic and environmental significance to the country.

He disclosed that Greenpeace, an independent global environmental organization, recently conducted a five-day assessment mission on the River Gambia. According to Manneh, the findings were deeply troubling, revealing extensive environmental degradation.

During the expedition, Manneh alleged that some Chinese fishing vessels fled upon sighting the Greenpeace ship, suggesting that operators were aware of the organization’s scrutiny and influence.

He further claimed that the government appeared uneasy about Greenpeace’s visit. While invitations were reportedly extended to the Ministry of Fisheries, the Office of the President, and national security agencies to attend a related event, only a representative from the Gambia Maritime Administration was present. Manneh said he received information indicating that the ministry had questioned the Navy’s decision to permit the Greenpeace vessel to enter Gambian waters.

“With the state of the Gambia River, it will be hard to restore it to its former glory. The Chinese vessels were running from us because they were fishing where they are not supposed to,” he said.

He emphasized that Gambian law restricts industrial trawlers from operating within nine nautical miles of the coastline, reserving those inshore waters for artisanal fishermen, while larger vessels are required to fish beyond that limit.