Tourism bigwigs checked out a gross taxi park after complaints. Minister Abdoulie Jobe hit up the Bijilo Tourist Taxi Park near Coco Ocean Hotel with the Gambia Tourism Board director general. The inspection focused on nasty sanitation and safety issues within the tourist zone. Jobe stated the visit aimed to improve the area, not remove the taxi operation.
He acknowledged receiving public grievances about the site's condition. The minister emphasized that the space must project a positive image for the country's tourism. He flagged specific concerns over a nearby toilet facility and general organization. Jobe called for the area to fall under the tourism board's direct management.
Drivers there voiced their own needs. Secretary Modou Faal appealed for a basic restroom, noting a formal request was already sent. He also mentioned the area requires sand filling to prevent vehicles from getting stuck. Driver Yousupha Cham raised security concerns, asking for proper street lighting at night.
Cham noted drivers follow board rules, keeping vehicles clean and wearing uniforms. Faal added that drivers organize monthly clean-up exercises to handle waste and leaves. Minister Jobe reminded everyone that cleanliness remains a shared responsibility for maintaining tourist confidence. He assured drivers they would not be displaced from the park.
Jobe concluded by stating all concerns were heard. He promised collaborative efforts with the tourism board to address sanitation, lighting, and overall improvements for the taxi park.
He acknowledged receiving public grievances about the site's condition. The minister emphasized that the space must project a positive image for the country's tourism. He flagged specific concerns over a nearby toilet facility and general organization. Jobe called for the area to fall under the tourism board's direct management.
Drivers there voiced their own needs. Secretary Modou Faal appealed for a basic restroom, noting a formal request was already sent. He also mentioned the area requires sand filling to prevent vehicles from getting stuck. Driver Yousupha Cham raised security concerns, asking for proper street lighting at night.
Cham noted drivers follow board rules, keeping vehicles clean and wearing uniforms. Faal added that drivers organize monthly clean-up exercises to handle waste and leaves. Minister Jobe reminded everyone that cleanliness remains a shared responsibility for maintaining tourist confidence. He assured drivers they would not be displaced from the park.
Jobe concluded by stating all concerns were heard. He promised collaborative efforts with the tourism board to address sanitation, lighting, and overall improvements for the taxi park.
