By Lamin Njie
The reconstruction of the Brikama market in the West Coast Region is to be completed by the end of this June 2022, sources close to the reconstruction site confirmed.
In a move to bring back those glorious days of hustling and bustling at the market, the Government of The Gambia through the Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure (MoTWI) started reconstructing a new market for the people of Brikama and its surrounding villages.
The reconstruction project is funded by Government at a tune of 30.5 million Dalasi.
Once work is finished this month a technical inspection of the structures and facilities will be conducted by the different stakeholders before the market will be opened to the public for business.
The new market has about 88 new stalls, each with prepaid cash-power meter, fire and hydrants. Security offices and other safety mechanisms too will be provided at the market.
In order to avoid water stagnation in the market as Brikama is known for its heavy rains, a proper drainage system will also be provided as well as sheds for the vegetable women sellers.
The reconstruction project was presipitated by the fire outbreak that engulfed the market in 2020, causing massive destruction and income shocks to many business men and women.
About 20 stalls were reported to have been burnt down.