Basse market is expected to accommodate at least 185 shops as President Adama Barrow laid foundation stone for rebuilding the market that was burned down in February.

“The new Market will accommodate one hundred and eighty (185) single shops, two (2) mini-markets, a shed for about thirty-five (35) women vegetable sellers, and another for twenty-five (25) fishmongers and butchers. In addition, a mosque, Market Manager’s Office, waste collection area and toilet facilities,” State House said in a statement. 

The market’s rebuilding will be completed next year. 

Tens of thousands of people graced the laying foundation ceremony on Saturday. The large gathering has attracted much criticism from the Gambian public who accused the president and his entourage of not being “interested” in slowing down the spread of coronavirus.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba