Bensouda Pledges to Suspend Foreign Fishing Trawler Licences, Support Local Fishermen

By Fatou Sillah

Talib Ahmed Bensouda, leader of UNITE Party and Coalition 2026 presidential candidate, has pledged to suspend fishing licences issued to foreign trawlers if elected president, promising to protect local fishermen and expand investment in the country’s fishing industry.

Speaking at a Coalition 2026 rally in Brufut, Mr. Bensouda accused President Adama Barrow’s administration of allowing foreign fishing vessels to operate in waters traditionally used by local fishermen, making it increasingly difficult for them to sustain their livelihoods.

He said his administration would prioritize Gambian fishermen by restricting foreign trawler operations and providing financial assistance to help local operators expand their businesses.

“Under our priority action in our manifesto, we are going to suspend the fishing licences of international fishing trawlers and provide finance to our local fishermen to develop their business,” he said.

Mr. Bensouda described Brufut as an important fishing community whose economic potential could be better harnessed through targeted investment in fisheries infrastructure.

He pledged to improve the town’s fish landing facilities, arguing that strengthening the local fishing industry would contribute to food security, create employment and help address hunger across the country.

Beyond fisheries, the Coalition 2026 candidate promised to transform Brufut’s existing football field into a mini-stadium, with ownership of the facility remaining in the hands of the community.

Addressing the challenges facing young Gambians, Mr. Bensouda also spoke against irregular migration, pledging to create economic opportunities that would enable young people to build successful lives in their own country rather than risk dangerous journeys abroad.

He said a government under his leadership would focus on expanding employment opportunities and supporting youth entrepreneurship as part of a broader strategy to discourage irregular migration.

Mr. Bensouda also promised significant infrastructure and economic development in Brufut, saying his administration would work to transform the community if elected in the December 5 presidential election.

“Some people are calling you Dubai, but I did not see Dubai here. But if you vote for President Talib Ahmed Bensouda, we are going to change here to London,” he told supporters.

His remarks formed part of Coalition 2026’s campaign pledges to strengthen local industries, expand economic opportunities, and improve community infrastructure ahead of the presidential election.