In response to growing concerns about waste management in Gunjur, the Ward Councillor, Hon. Momodou Charreh Gibba has issued a formal statement to address the situation and clarify his role in the ongoing issue of indiscriminate dumping.
The Councillor began by stating that Gunjur does not have a designated public dumping site. The plot of land currently used for waste disposal belongs to a private family from Daa Kunda Kabilo. As this land is privately owned, the Councillor emphasised that he has no authority over how it is used, including preventing local residents from dumping waste there. He highlighted that the Brikama Area Council, which is responsible for public amenities, does not purchase land for the community. Instead, the community must provide land for such services.
Efforts have been made, however, to address the issue. The Village Development Committee (VDC) recently purchased a 40m by 13m plot, which they intend to fence and secure as a proper waste collection site. The Councillor has submitted a request to the Brikama Area Council for a shovel or bulldozer to help clear the land and begin the fencing process.
He stressed that the waste problem stems from private land ownership, meaning that if the family owning the land fenced their property, the issue of dumping would be mitigated. The Councillor expressed frustration at being blamed for the unpleasant odors caused by the dumping, stating it was unfair to hold him accountable for the misuse of private land.
Additionally, the Councillor explained his efforts to improve waste management in the community, including providing a skip bin for the Gunjur market. Unfortunately, the community has been reluctant to accept it in most locations, eventually resulting in the bin being placed at the Gunjur Health Center. He assured that the health center is adequately supplied with bins and that any delays in waste collection are addressed promptly.
In conclusion, the Councillor reiterated his commitment to the community and stressed that while he is doing everything within his power, some issues lie outside his authority. He expressed confidence that his efforts were appreciated and thanked the public for their understanding and attention.
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