WANEP-The Gambia calls for calm amid rising tension between Gunjur and Berending

FOR IMMEDIATE
Banjul, The Gambia – The West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP-The Gambia), is deeply concerned about the recent escalation of tensions between the neighboring communities of Gunjur and Berending in the Kombo South District, West Coast Region of The Gambia. WANEP-The Gambia understands that the issues driving this tension are complex and multifaceted. However, we believe that tension and aggression are never the solution. Instead, 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 it’s partners in our effort in fostering dialogue and ensuring lasting peace in Gunjur and Berending.
WANEP-The Gambia, as part of its commitment to peacebuilding and conflict prevention, has undertaken several initiatives to de-escalate tensions and promote dialogue between the two communities. Under WANEP’s Research and Action for Peace (REcAP) Project funded by the European Union (EU), WANEP-The Gambia conducted Community Dialogue Sessions and Alternative Dispute Resolution Trainings (from June 22–24, 2024, and July 12–14, 2024) for the residents of Berending and Gunjur, respectively. These interventions are part of the actions aimed at fostering mutual understanding, trust building, and the creation of platforms for constructive engagement between Gunjur and Berending.
The communities of Gunjur and Berending have been embroiled in a longstanding land dispute dating back to the 1980s. The conflict primarily involves the Sanyang Kunda family of Berending and the Jammeh Kunda, Darboe Kunda, and other clans within Gunjur. The dispute has historically been a source of tension, culminating in violent clashes that turned fatal seven years ago.
In response to the recurring tensions, the Government of The Gambia constituted a task force to investigate the matter and provide recommendations for resolution. While the task force completed its work, key recommendations, including the proposed demarcation of a new boundary, remain unimplemented. Recently, a letter from the Ministry of Lands, Local Government, and Religious Affairs announcing plans for the demarcation of the border between Gunjur and Berending has reignited tensions, with both communities holding rival press conferences to assert their claims over the disputed land.
WANEP The Gambia is committed to facilitating open and honest dialogue between the two communities. We will work tirelessly to create a safe and respectful environment where all voices can be heard, and concerns addressed. We are confident that through collective effort and a commitment to no violence, we can overcome our differences and build a brighter future for the two communities.
WANEP-The Gambia has outlined immediate and medium-term actions that will guide the resolution process. These include but not limited to:
Shuttle Diplomacy to the leaders and identified groups of the two communities to ensure calm.
Stakeholder Mapping: Identifying and engaging all relevant stakeholders to ensure inclusive participation in the peace process.
Legal Research: Conducting thorough legal research to clarify land ownership and rights within the framework of national laws and traditional customs.
In-Depth Consultations: Facilitating comprehensive consultations with local communities to ensure all voices are heard and considered in the resolution process.
Dialogue and mediation: Design and facilitate a dialogue and mediation process that would build trust among the two communities and ensure lasting peace and development.
WANEP-The Gambia therefore calls on the Government of The Gambia to expedite the implementation of the task force’s recommendations, particularly the demarcation of the boundary, in a transparent and inclusive manner. We also urge civil society organizations, local leaders, and international partners to support efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions and promoting peaceful coexistence.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Name: Dr. Malang B.S. Bojang
Title: National Early Warning System (NEWS) Manager
WANEP-The Gambia
Phone Number: 2300637
Email Address: Newsmanager-gambia@wanep.org
About WANEP-The Gambia:
The West Africa Network for Peacebuilding is a leading regional peacebuilding organization working to promote peace, security, and stability in West Africa. WANEP-The Gambia is the national chapter of the network, dedicated to preventing conflict, strengthening local capacities for peace, and fostering dialogue and reconciliation in The Gambia.