Activist Saffiatou Joof Leads First Protest Demanding Relocation of Bakoteh Dumpsite

Environmental activist, poet, and author Saffiatou Joof, today led the first public protest calling for the immediate closure and relocation of the Bakoteh dumpsite, a long-standing environmental and health concern for nearby residents.

Speaking at the protest site, Joof said the action was organized in response to years of neglect by the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) and the growing dangers posed by the dumpsite to the community.

“We are here to protest the conditions at the Bakoteh dumpsite. KMC has really neglected this space for quite a long time,” Joof said. “Our first goal is to stop the dumping completely and relocate the site. The second is to explore ways to turn this waste into wealth because a lot can be harnessed from it.”

Joof revealed that her team has been engaging with scientists and environmental experts interested in transforming waste into productive materials such as compost or renewable energy, which could benefit both the environment and the local economy.

She also explained that they had formally written to KMC prior to the protest seeking dialogue but received no official response. “They called us verbally for a meeting, but we insisted on a written reply, which never came,” she said. “However, the National Environment Agency (NEA) has shown openness and readiness to work with us on finding sustainable solutions.”

The protest drew residents from Bakoteh and surrounding communities, many of whom voiced frustration over toxic smoke, unbearable odors, and health problems caused by the dumpsite’s poor management.

Joof announced that the group will hold a stakeholder meeting on November 13 with the NEA and other relevant bodies to discuss long-term strategies for addressing the crisis and improving waste management in the area.

The Bakoteh dumpsite, one of The Gambia’s largest, has long been criticized for its environmental hazards and lack of proper oversight. Today’s demonstration marked the first organized citizen protest demanding decisive action on its closure and relocation.

Joof concluded by reaffirming her commitment to continue the campaign, saying the movement is about protecting lives and promoting a cleaner, safer environment for all Gambians.