The West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP) has urged calm between the neighbouring Gunjur and Berending in Kombo South, following rising tension over a disputed land.

The tension has been going on since 2019, when a man was killed in a violent clash.

The Gambia government constituted a task force to look into the matter following the deadly clash and provide recommendations.

However, recently, the residents of Berending held a news conference to oppose a proposal for a new boundary between the disputing villages, which reignited the tensions.

In response, WANEP called on the two sides to come to a peace table, adding that tension and aggression are never the solution.

“We must work together to find peaceful and constructive ways to address our differences. We urge members of the two communities to remain calm, exercise restraint, and avoid any actions or utterances that could further inflame tensions. We also appeal to our youth to refrain from engaging in any actions that may turn violent.

“We call on the government, civil society, local communities, and international partners to join WANEP and its partners in our effort in fostering dialogue and ensuring lasting peace in Gunjur and Berending,” the group said in a statement.

By Adama Makasuba