By Ramatoulie Jawo
The Members of the Gambia National Assembly, On Thursday 21st March 2024, passed the Rent Amendment Bill, 2024.
The bill was tabled before the lawmakers by the honorable member for Serekunda West, Hon. Madi MK Ceesay on Tuesday, December 19, 2023. The primary objective of the bill is to amend the existing Rent Act of 2014. Its provisions include outlining landlords’ responsibilities in maintaining habitable rental premises, mandating landlord approval prior to tenant subletting, specifying terms for rent increases, and addressing related matters.
This legislative endeavor aspires to modernize the Rent Act of 2014 by adjusting the valuation criteria for low-cost rental premises to reflect contemporary standards. Additionally, it aims to alleviate financial strain on tenants by facilitating monthly rental payments rather than lump-sum payments spanning multiple months.
Honorable Ceesay emphasized the bill’s acknowledgment of landlords’ valuable service and its focus on ensuring proper upkeep of rented premises throughout the agreed lease duration.
Following a motion by Honorable Ceesay, the bill was approved for its third reading and, subsequently, passed. It now awaits presidential assent to become law in the Gambia.