By Olimatou Coker
The West African Bird Study Association (WABSA) yesterday condemned the recent killing of a crocodile said to have been prepared as a gift to President Barrow at one of his current Meet The People Tour meetings.
In a statement WABSA said: “The senseless killing of wildlife species, is a practice that not only threatens the delicate balance of their ecosystems but also undermines their shared responsibility to protect the natural world for future generation”.
“Wildlife is an irreplaceable part of the heritage and biodiversity, contributing to the health of their planet and the well-being of humanity. The loss of any species diminishes our collective identity and the richness of our environment. We urge our leaders to take decisive action against poaching, habitat destruction and illegal wildlife trade. It is imperative that we strengthen our laws, enhance conservation efforts, and promote sustainable practices that respect and preserve our wildlife,” WABSA said.
The body called the head of state to champion initiatives that protect endangered species and promote awareness about the importance of biodiversity.
Meanwhile, other environment protection groups have joined in condemning the killing of the crocodile.
In a joint statement they, called the attention of the president to matter as follows: “We as environmentalists, conservationists and civil society groups among others write with utmost respect and sincere concern regarding recent reports of the killing and subsequent donation of a hippopotamus and a crocodile to the president. While we acknowledge that such acts may have been undertaken with goodwill by the individuals involved, we respectfully wish to bring to your attention the serious national and international implications such actions may carry, particularly in relation to wildlife protection and conservation laws, ”
They also said Wildlife and Biodiversity Act of The Gambia (and accompanying regulations) clearly prohibits the killing, capturing, or trading of protected species without proper authorisation.
NPP clarifies
However, in a statement on the matter, the governing National People’s Party (NPP) said the incident involving the crocodile happened in Sandu Kuraw where members of the Gambia Hunters Association, led by Modou Bintou Dibba of Baddibu Salikenne, arrived intending to present a crocodile to President Barrow, a cultural gesture traditionally used to honour distinguished guests in rural communities.
“Since the president had not yet arrived, and in line with standard security and protocol procedures, the hunters were politely asked to leave the venue to maintain order and ensure safety. The NPP emphasised that the president remains committed to animal welfare and fully upholds The Gambia’s Wildlife and Protection Laws. While cultural traditions are respected, they must align with national legal standards and wildlife protection.
The public is urged to disregard misleading social media reports and to verify information before sharing. The NPP reaffirms its commitment to transparency, cultural respect, and the rule of law,”the party said.
