The government of The Gambia has ordered the closure of the the tiny west African nation‘s land borders and airspace as of Monday, 23rd March 2030.
The move came as calls grew for the government to act decisively to curb the spread of the virus in the country.
The closure is contained in a press release from the office of the president of the republic of The Gambia reproduced below:
OP/291/249/01/PART IV (374-ABS)
News Release
Gambia closes airspace and land borders
State House, Banjul, 21st March 2020 –Following consultations and an update from the Ministerial Committee on the Coronovirus, His Excellency, President Adama Barrow has approved the closure of the border between the Republic of The Gambia and the Republic of Senegal, effective midnight, on Monday, 23rd March 2020.
The decision of the closure of the border was taken considering the rapid spread of COVID -19 in the world and in our region, and the continuous movement of people posing high risk of contracting the disease. The Government of the Republic of The Gambia and the Republic of Senegal have mutually agreed to close their border for a period of 21 days in the bid to contain the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
The public is hereby informed that the closure will not affect essential services, such as movement of security personnel, foodstuff, medical services, related items and equipment between the two countries.
Furthermore, the Republic of the Gambia has decided to close its airspace from all flights except for medical cargo flights. This closure will also begin midnight on Monday, 23rd March 2020, for a period of 21 days.
Meanwhile, President Barrow reiterates his commendation to the national response teams and committees, all the frontline workers, community and religious leaders, political leaders, the business community, all citizens and people living in The Gambia for their cooperation and standing with his government during these trying times. The President further urges all to take responsibility to prevent, contain and manage the Coronavirus.
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Contact:
Amie Bojang-Sissoho
Director of Press & Public Relations
Office of the President, State House, Banjul
Tel: +220 9957592
Email: absissoho@op.gov.gm
dpprop2017@gmail.com
Twitter: @BarrowPresident
Facebook: Barrow PORG
Website: statehouse.gov.gm