The Judiciary of The Gambia has inaugurated an interdepartmental committee to review the country’s land dispute adjudication system, marking a major step towards streamlining and strengthening the resolution of land-related conflicts.

The inaugural meeting was held on Monday, 28 July 2025, in the Chambers of Chief Justice Hassan B. Jallow, who presided over the session alongside key officials including the Minister of Regional Government, Lands and Religious Affairs, Hamat N.K. Bah, and senior members of the judiciary and justice ministry.

The committee’s mandate is to assess the current land dispute adjudication framework and recommend reforms aimed at improving efficiency and expediting the resolution of cases. It is expected to submit its findings and any draft legislation to the Chief Justice by 15 December 2025.

Chaired by Hon. Justice B.V.P. Mahoney of the Superior Courts, the committee includes representatives from across the legal and public service sectors, namely:

• Two Judges of the Superior Courts
• The Solicitor General and Legal Secretary
• The Judicial Secretary
• The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Regional Government, Lands and Religious Affairs
• The President of the Gambia Bar Association
• The Executive Secretary of the Gambia Law Reform Commission

To support its work, the Judiciary is currently recruiting a legal consultant with expertise in land adjudication.

The establishment of this committee comes amid mounting public concern over the growing number of unresolved land disputes and overlapping claims, which have strained the court system and affected community relations.

Officials say the move reflects the Judiciary’s commitment to a fairer, faster, and more transparent system that protects the rights of all citizens.