Illegal backfilling and construction are threatening the Tanbi Wetland, a Ramsar Site of International Importance stretching across Banjul and the Kombo coastline. This key ecological area, officially recognized for its global significance, is facing severe degradation. New houses are being built within wetland buffer zones, particularly in Ebo Town's Badala area, encroaching upon its delicate ecosystem. Piles of household waste, sand, and construction debris are routinely dumped into the wetland to create dry ground suitable for building. This practice of backfilling has become increasingly common over the past few years, transforming natural habitats into human settlements.
When wetlands are filled, natural drainage systems become blocked, which significantly increases the risk of flooding in adjacent areas. The environmental degradation observed in the Tanbi Wetland extends from Ebo Town through Tallinding and other nearby communities, noting the widespread nature of the problem. The Tanbi Wetland Complex, covering more than 6,000 hectares, received its designation as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention in 2007, showing its global ecological value. Its recognition as a Ramsar Site emphasizes its critical role in biodiversity conservation and ecological processes.
Ecological and Economic Importance
The Tanbi Wetland provides a breeding ground for fish, crabs, oysters, and other marine life, forming the cornerstone of a vibrant aquatic ecosystem. Its extensive mangrove forests support hundreds of bird species, serving as a vital sanctuary for both resident and migratory birds. These mangrove ecosystems are not merely habitats; they also act as a natural defence against coastal erosion and rising sea levels, protecting the vulnerable coastline. The intricate root systems of the mangroves trap sediments, which helps to improve water quality by filtering pollutants and providing safe breeding areas for young fish and other aquatic organisms.
Beyond its ecological significance, the wetland supports thousands of Gambians whose livelihoods depend directly on its resources, including fishing, oyster harvesting, and small-scale farming. The health of the wetland is intrinsically linked to the economic well-being of these communities, making its protection critical for both environmental and socio-economic reasons. The continued degradation of this vital resource jeopardizes not only the diverse species it hosts but also the human populations that rely on its sustained productivity.
Degradation and Consequences
The signs of degradation are stark and widespread. Water in affected sections of the Tanbi Wetland in Ebo Town has turned dark and stagnant, indicating significant environmental changes and a severe decline in water quality. Plastic waste, scrap metal, and other rubbish are visible floating on the surface of the wetland, contributing to its ongoing pollution. Sections of the wetland that once held tidal water have been reclaimed, primarily for housing construction, irreversibly altering the natural landscape. Donkey-cart operators have been observed transporting household refuse specifically for dumping inside the wetland, a practice that directly contributes to the environmental crisis. The accumulation of waste has led to the emergence of new plots where mangroves once stood in Ebo Town and Badala, further eroding the natural habitat.
These activities have led to fears that blocked waterways will worsen flooding during the upcoming rainy season, particularly affecting communities from Churchill’s Town to Ebo Town to Badala. The obstruction of natural water flow channels exacerbates the risk of inundation, threatening homes and livelihoods. Joseph Jatta, a local fisherman, stated that he finds catching small fish increasingly difficult due to the pollution and debris. The once-abundant fish populations are dwindling, impacting the sustenance and income of local fishermen. Jatta reported that his fishing net, which he purchased for D5,000, was damaged by iron and dirt within the wetland, illustrating the direct economic impact on those dependent on its resources. "I bought a fishing net for D5,000, but it was damaged inside the wetland," Jatta said, expressing his frustration. "When I threw it into the water, it was cut by iron and lots of dirt that people had thrown into the water. It destroyed my net." Jatta emphasized the wetland's importance to his livelihood, adding, "This wetland is important because we catch fish, crabs and other species here." The presence of pools of stagnant water mixed with household waste, emitting unpleasant odours, further notes the unsanitary conditions developing in these areas. Mosquitoes were also visible around some reclaimed areas, raising concerns about potential public health risks.
Researchers have issued warnings that the clearing of mangroves and the backfilling of wetlands expose coastal communities such as Banjul, Ebo Town, and New Jeshwang to greater risks of flooding. The natural protective barrier provided by mangroves is being systematically destroyed, leaving these areas vulnerable. Studies conducted on the area indicate that many wetland areas contain unstable clay and acid sulphate soils, which are inherently unsuitable for construction purposes. Building on such unstable ground not only poses risks to the structures themselves but also further destabilizes the ecosystem. During a visit by Foroyaa, donkey carts laden with household waste were seen moving through nearby communities, indicating the ongoing and persistent nature of the dumping operations.
Artificial embankments have been formed within the wetland by accumulations of plastic bags, broken furniture, construction debris, metal scraps, and domestic waste. These unsightly and environmentally damaging formations disrupt the natural flow of water and introduce harmful substances into the ecosystem. Observations also revealed young mangrove trees surrounded by waste, struggling to survive amidst the pollution, while other sections of the wetland were found buried under reclaimed land, pointing to the extensive and irreversible nature of the environmental impact. The continuous influx of waste and construction materials directly contributes to the alteration of the wetland's natural hydrology and ecological balance, threatening its very existence.
Community and Official Responses
Dodou Kinteh, a community environmental advocate, has been working tirelessly to discourage illegal dumping in the Badala section of the Tanbi Wetland. Mr. Kinteh stated that the scale of backfilling has drastically altered the natural water flow, observing, "Before, during high tide, the water flowed more than 50 metres inland, but now they are backfilling the wetland with waste." This dramatic reduction in tidal influence indicates a severe disruption of the wetland's natural functions. He also noted the source of the refuse, saying, "The wetland is not Bakoteh Dumpsite. Those claiming to buy compounds there tell donkey-cart drivers to dump waste in the wetland. They are killing the wetland slowly." Mr. Kinteh expressed profound concern over the living conditions created by these activities, remarking, "Some of these houses were built recently. I don’t understand how someone can live in this," pointing to the unsanitary and hazardous environment.
The community advocate assigned blame beyond official bodies, stating, "We cannot blame the government every time. Sometimes it is the people themselves who are causing these problems. How can you backfill a wetland so you can build your house?" He warned of significant flood risks due to the obstructed waterways, a threat that looms large over the coming rainy season. "When the rains come, flooding is going to be severe because they block all the waterways from Churchill’s Town to Ebo Town to Badala. When it rains, the water cannot flow into the wetland properly because the waterways have been blocked, while the wetland itself is facing severe pollution from all types of waste," Mr. Kinteh explained, painting a bleak picture of the impending consequences. He also emphasized the ecological importance of the wetland, noting, "Everyone is destroying the future of the wetland. It is important for fish, birds and many other species." Mr. Kinteh attributed responsibility to local leadership and buyers, adding, "But what is happening in Badala is sad. I blame the Alkalo and the people themselves who are buying this land because living inside or alongside waste itself is unhealthy."
The village Alkalo is accused of selling land inside the wetland, a claim the Alkalo has denied, further complicating efforts to address the issue. The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources has expressed concern about settlement inside wetlands, acknowledging the severity of the problem. The Minister for the environment stated that people building inside wetlands should expect flooding, issuing a stark warning to those encroaching on these sensitive areas. The Minister also noted the role of the council and NAWEC in potentially legalizing settlements by providing essential services like water and electricity, which can inadvertently encourage further development in vulnerable areas. Environmental conservation organizations warn that protecting wetlands requires full cooperation from government agencies, local authorities, traditional leaders, and communities working together to enforce regulations and promote sustainable practices. Without a concerted and collaborative effort, the future of the Tanbi Wetland, a critical natural asset, remains gravely imperiled.