Environmental and Health Justification for Relocation

The Bakoteh dumpsite, positioned in the center of Serrekunda, is:

• A source of air pollution, due to constant burning of waste and harmful emissions to the residents of Bakoteh most especially the SOS campus nearby.
• A breeding ground for germs and disease, posing public health risks.
• An environmental hazard, with toxic leachate threatening nearby soil and water quality.
• A public nuisance, producing strong odors, unsightly waste, and fire outbreaks.
• A poor reflection of urban planning, being situated near homes, markets, and schools.
  

The NBP affirms that this condition is unsustainable and unacceptable in a modern Gambia.

Relocation Strategy and Modern Waste Management Plan

The first step will be to identify and secure a new site for solid waste management outside the densely populated urban zones. This relocation will be carried out with:

• Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) to ensure the new location is appropriate and does not endanger local ecosystems or communities.
• The establishment of a modern waste sorting, recycling, and processing facility at the new site.
• Implementation of waste segregation at source to reduce landfill pressure and promote recycling and composting.
• Public education campaigns to encourage community participation in new waste management systems.
• Introduction of regulated waste collection zones across the Greater Banjul Area to ensure timely and sanitary waste disposal.
  

In managing the new site, the NBP will adopt international best practices in landfill design, including leachate collection systems, methane capture technologies and protected landfill lining to prevent ground contamination.

Site Rehabilitation and Environmental Remediation

Once waste operations are relocated, the Bakoteh dumpsite will undergo a phased environmental remediation process including:

• Removal of surface waste and deep-level contaminated materials.
• Soil detoxification using bioremediation techniques.
• Planting of grass and native trees to revitalize soil and promote biodiversity.
• Restoration of the air quality and water table in the surrounding area.
  

This process will be overseen by the National Environmental Agency in collaboration with international environmental consultants and local NGOs.

Transformation into a Public Recreational Park

Following environmental cleanup, the site will be redeveloped into a modern urban park that serves as a safe, healthy, and vibrant space for families, children, students, and elders. Features will include:

• Walking and cycling trails, shaded with trees and greenery.
• Playgrounds for children with modern and safe play equipment.
• Community sports areas, including basketball courts, mini football pitches, and workout stations.
• Quiet areas with benches and pavilions for study, meditation, or relaxation.
• A small environmental education center to teach school children and residents about urban ecology, waste management, and sustainability.
  
  

 Economic and Social Benefits

• The project will create hundreds of jobs, both during the construction phase and through long-term maintenance, environmental education, and small business operations within the park.
• Local residents will benefit from improved air quality, reduced health risks, and a better urban environment.
• The park will provide a safe space for children and families, enhancing the quality of life for surrounding neighborhoods.

The initiative will restore dignity to the area and symbolize government commitment to environmental justice and responsible urban planning.