The Gambian government will commence construction on its ambitious 200,000-unit affordable housing programme in two weeks, Lands Minister Hamat Bah announced on Monday, following a brief delay due to logistical issues. The decade-long initiative aims to address the country’s chronic housing shortage, particularly among low-income and vulnerable groups.
Speaking at a government press conference, Minister Bah said the project was originally scheduled to start earlier this month but faced “little hitches” in finalising key operational details. “The project is to take off in the next two weeks. We wanted to do it this week, but we had little hitches. We are almost there and hopefully in the next two weeks, you will hear something very positive from us,” he stated.
Of the planned 200,000 houses, around 128,874 units are earmarked for low-income and vulnerable citizens, demonstrating the government’s commitment to equitable access to affordable housing. The remaining units will target middle-income households, contributing to a more balanced urban housing market.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to expand affordable housing in The Gambia, stimulate the construction sector, and improve living conditions in both urban and peri-urban areas. Officials have said the project will generate thousands of jobs, boost local supply chains, and support economic growth over the next decade.
Background: Housing Challenges in The Gambia
The Gambia, a small West African country with a population of approximately 2.7 million, faces a significant housing deficit. Rapid population growth, urbanisation, and limited investment in social housing have contributed to overcrowding, informal settlements, and inadequate housing in major cities such as Banjul and Serrekunda. According to government estimates, the housing deficit stands at over 150,000 units, with low-income groups most severely affected.
Previous government-led housing initiatives have struggled to meet demand due to funding constraints, bureaucratic delays, and insufficient coordination with private developers. This new 200,000-unit plan represents the largest public housing initiative in the country’s history and is seen as a cornerstone of President Adama Barrow’s efforts to improve social infrastructure and reduce urban poverty.
The government has emphasised that the project will not only provide homes but also modern amenities such as access to clean water, sanitation, electricity, and road networks. Authorities plan to partner with local and regional construction firms, as well as financial institutions, to ensure sustainable development and adherence to quality standards.
Economic and Social Impacts
Beyond addressing the housing shortage, the project is expected to generate substantial economic benefits. Construction activities alone are projected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, stimulating demand for building materials, transport services, and related industries. By increasing housing supply, the project may also help moderate rental prices in urban centres, providing relief for low- and middle-income households.
Socially, the initiative is designed to improve living conditions for vulnerable communities, who often reside in informal settlements with limited access to basic services. By providing formal housing, the government aims to enhance health outcomes, educational access, and overall quality of life for residents.
Minister Bah acknowledged that the project’s success will depend on effective planning, efficient procurement, and close monitoring to avoid delays and ensure transparency. “We are finalising the details, including funding and contractor selection. The goal is to implement this programme efficiently and in a manner that benefits all Gambians,” he said.
Looking Ahead
As the project prepares to launch, stakeholders including local authorities, civil society, and private developers will play a critical role in its implementation. Regular progress updates are expected from the Ministry of Lands and relevant agencies to ensure accountability and maintain public confidence.
With housing demand far outstripping supply, the government’s 200,000-unit plan is seen as a historic step toward addressing a pressing social need. If successfully executed, it could transform urban landscapes, create economic opportunities, and provide stable homes for hundreds of thousands of Gambians over the next decade.
This initiative marks a significant commitment by the Gambian government to social development, economic growth, and poverty alleviation, reflecting a comprehensive approach to tackling one of the country’s most urgent challenges.
