Gambia Tourism Board suspends open-air events in TDA

The Gambia Tourism Board (GTBoard) has announced an immediate suspension of all open-air music and public entertainment events within the Tourism Development Area (TDA). The ban includes concerts, beach parties, festivals, and other public entertainment held on beaches and within the zone.

The board stated the measure is a precautionary step to safeguard the tourism industry, maintain public order, and protect the safety of tourists, residents, and businesses following a recent unspecified incident. GTBoard expressed deep concern regarding conduct that threatens the safety and dignity of people within the TDA and is working with the Tourism Security Unit (TSU) to investigate the circumstances and identify those responsible.

Human rights activist Madi Jobarteh has criticized the move, labeling the blanket ban as “draconian.” Jobarteh questioned the justification for suspending all events without identifying a specific threat, suggesting that the board should instead focus on targeted security measures.