From Hope to Rubble: Single Mother Left Homeless After Government Demolishes Homes

A Dream Shattered

Mariama Bojang, a single mother of seven, is among dozens of Salaji property owners whose homes were bulldozed by the Gambian government. Her years-long struggle to build a home for her family was destroyed in an instant, leaving her devastated.

Government Action Sparks Outrage

The April demolition has drawn widespread criticism, with many Gambians calling the government’s actions “reckless and wicked.” Officials defended the move, claiming the homes were illegally built on public land without proper authorization.

A Mother’s Struggle

For four years, Ms. Bojang painstakingly saved money from her small business to construct the house while supporting her seven children. “It’s not easy to be a single mother,” she said, her voice trembling. “I have my seven kids and also take care of my late sister’s children.”

The Day Everything Changed

When she heard the news, Ms. Bojang rushed to the site with two of her children. “We cried until we arrived back home because of the shock,” she recalled. The nearly completed home was reduced to rubble, along with her investment of nearly one million dalasis (about $920,000).

Controversy Over Legal Process

While authorities claim proper eviction notices were served, Ms. Bojang insists: “I was not served any court order.” She now demands accountability from the Barrow administration for what she calls an “unjust” and “torturous” act.

Broader Social Issues

Human rights activist Madi Jobarteh says the incident highlights systemic inequality in Gambian society. “The lack and denial of opportunities that deprive people of development are persistent and systemic,” he stated, adding that Ms. Bojang now feels she has “nothing to live for.”

By Adama Makasuba

Original source: Gambiana.com