In The Gambia, members of Parliament are calling for substantial reforms to the country’s citizenship laws, citing growing concerns over long-term residents who remain stateless despite deep roots in the country. Lawmakers argue that the current legal framework leaves thousands without recognized nationality.
Much of the attention is focused on Ghana Town in Brufut, where generations of families have lived for decades without formal citizenship. Although many residents were born and raised there, they lack legal status that would guarantee their rights and access to essential services.
A recent assessment revealed that the majority of Ghana Town’s population still has no legal documentation. Many of them identify The Gambia as their only home, yet remain outside the country’s citizenship system.
Lawmakers say that addressing this long-standing issue is crucial for promoting social inclusion and ensuring that every resident is accounted for under the law. They are urging swift legislative action to provide pathways to citizenship and end decades of exclusion.
