Bishop Manga Calls for Protection of Historic Cemeteries in The Gambia
Bishop Bannie E. F. Manga © Askanwi
By Edward Francis Dalliah
As The Gambia approaches its 60 years of independence, the Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church of The Gambia and Chairman of The Gambia Christian Council, Most Rev'd Bannie E. F. Manga, called on the authorities to “protect and dignify” its historic cemeteries.
Bishop Manga made this call during his New Year message delivered on 19th December 2024. In his address, he emphasised the importance of cemeteries as sacred sites that connect the past and present generations. “History tells us that one of the most beautifully kept properties of our communities has been our cemeteries. [However], it is sad to see the present state of this shared property that connects the past to the present generation,” he said.
Christian denominations such as the Anglican, Methodist, and Catholic churches traditionally take great care in preserving the cemeteries of their deceased. Practices such as cleaning the graves and decorating them with paint, tiles, flowers, and wreaths are common.
These efforts not only prevent the graves from becoming lost or forgotten but also serve to honour and remember the deceased, ensuring that their memories remain alive in the community.
In particular, Catholics around the world observe All Souls’ Day on 2nd November, a day dedicated to praying for the souls of the deceased. This tradition underscores the deep reverence and care they hold for their cemeteries.
Despite these long-standing traditions, Bishop Manga’s address highlighted growing concerns over the carelessness of cemeteries across the country. Over time, many cemeteries have fallen into disrepair, with overgrown vegetation, broken tombstones, and an overall lack of maintenance.
Kotu cemetery, photo taken in July 2024 © Askanwi
Amidst all of these, the encroachments of cemeteries have also been a growing concern for the Christian community. A publication by The Standard Newspaper issued in August 2018 revealed how the now-late Vicar General of the Christian Council, Father Emile Sambou, called on the “authorities to do something to protect Christian cemeteries and praying grounds that are being gradually encroached upon at various places”.
According to the article, the late Catholic Priest said letters were sent to various authorities, including the Ministry of Lands, the Department of Physical Planning, and the office of the IGP, drawing their attention to the widespread encroachment on Christian cemeteries, but responses were not forthcoming. The Priest further noted that the cemetery near the Kotu Power Station is being encroached on by women who used it for gardening.
In all these land encroachments, little effort has been seen in areas of the cemetery near the Kotu Powers Station. Our reporter's engagement with the Christian Community of Latrikunda (CCLK) has revealed that one Pa Lowe has bought part of the land where he built his workshop. The community told this medium that with effortless engagement to retrieve that sold portion, the case has been taken to court for a judgment to be reached.
Photo Credit Askanwi
