By Seedy Jobe
The Ministry of Lands, Regional Government, and Religious Affairs on Wednesday formally inaugurated the National Physical Planning Board, a body officials said would play a central role in regulating land use and guiding development across the country.
The ceremony, held at the ministry’s conference hall in Banjul, was presided over by Hamat N. K. Bah, who described the board’s activation as a milestone in efforts to strengthen spatial planning and promote sustainable growth.
Mr. Bah said the board’s establishment fulfills requirements under the Physical Planning and Development Control Act, which mandates the creation of planning authorities to oversee land use and physical development nationwide. The board is tasked with authorizing and directing the preparation of a national development plan, as well as local and sectoral plans that shape land use decisions.
“The outstanding matters have been resolved,” Mr. Bah said, referring to previous operational and logistical challenges that had limited the board’s effectiveness. “This is an important step toward strengthening our systems and ensuring more effective service delivery.”
He emphasized that orderly planning remains central to national development, noting that the growth of towns, forest parks, and transportation systems must be guided by clear regulatory frameworks to avoid congestion, environmental degradation, and uncoordinated expansion. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the National Land Policy and expanding digital systems to improve transparency and efficiency in land administration.
Although the board’s chairman, Mr. Momodou S. Jobe, is currently out of the country, Mr. Bah said the board’s work would proceed without interruption.
Speaking on behalf of the chairman, board member, and former permanent secretary, Saikou K. Sanyang said the institution would play a decisive role in shaping the country’s development trajectory.
“The physical development of our country is not accidental,” Mr. Sanyang said. “It is shaped by the decisions we take, the standards we enforce, and the vision we uphold.”
Mr. Sanyang outlined priorities that include strengthening development control, ensuring consistent enforcement of planning laws, and safeguarding river systems and coastal zones. He also called for greater professionalism and transparency in land use management and infrastructure development.
The 10-member board comprises Mr. Jobe as chairperson, alongside Foday A. Jallow, Mr. Sanyang, Fansu Sanneh, and Ada Gaye. Five ex-officio members represent the Ministry of Lands and the ministries responsible for justice, environment, and agriculture.
Officials said the inauguration signals a renewed push toward structured growth, environmental protection, and inclusive national development in The Gambia.
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