By: Fatou Krubally
The Gambia government’s labour agreement with Saudi Arabia meant reduced unemployment has been hit with public outcry as many described the $200 monthly wage as exploitation.
The Voice Newspaper reporter visited Banjul to stamp the opinion of citizens who shared their concerns about the deal that selected only 50 Gambians.
Amina Jallow, a local shopkeeper in Banjul, said the $200 monthly salary is too small and she thinks that those going have been sold into slavery and the agreement undermines the value of Gambian labour law.
Lamin Fofana, a community leader expressed his discontent and urged the government to look for better wages and working conditions for those who have been selected.
He described the agreement as a betrayal of rights and the future and asked for the duration of the contract, “short-term or long-term” and also the conditions attached.
Fatou Bah, a mother of two, shared her fears about the potential consequences of the agreement that she is worried about children
Omar Jallow, a recent graduate, stated that he wants to contribute to his country, but not like this, noting that $200 is not a living wage, but an insult.
