Markets and banks in the Kanifing Municipality were flooded with customers on Friday as Muslims in the country began fasting in the holy month of Ramadan.
Customers formed long queues at the Guranty Trust Bank Latrikunda branch, which extended to outside of its premises as they waited withdraw money to buy basic commodities for the Ramadan.
Many Gambian households depend on remittances for feeding especially during the annual fasting period.
Shops and warehouses at the Latrikunda market along the Westfield-Tabokoto highway was crowded as demand for essential food stuff including condiments increased.
This happens each year during Ramadan.
The main market in Serekunda, Gambia’s biggest town was bustling on Friday morning, the first of its kind since the declaration of public emergency in the country since the Covid-19 health crisis.
“I was amazed with the crowd at the Serekunda market and people are criss-crossing everywhere, which is worrisome due to the coronavirus, ” a young woman said on her way to work just by the market.
The government has since banned public gatherings and encouraged public spacing, which is also being enforced in public transport system.
It also prohibits the smuggling of foodstuff out of the country, in a bid to ensure enough availability to the citizenry during the Covid-19 emergency period.
Meanwhile, The Gambia Supreme Islamic Council (GSIC) announced on state media, that this year’s fasting starts on Friday 24th April.
The president of the GISC, Momodou Lamin Touray said the moon was sighted on Thursday evening in many countries in Asia and Africa including The Gambia.
EJ/abj/APA