Procedure
Apply In-Person
To apply for a Food Handler Certificate in The Gambia, candidates must visit the Food Safety and Quality Authority of The Gambia (FSQA) and follow the steps outlined below:
Step 1: Check Regulations and Updates
Before applying, confirm the latest food safety certification requirements with FSQA or the local municipal health authority. Some regions may require a medical screening, including a blood test and chest X-ray.
Step 2: Visit the FSQA Office
Go to the nearest FSQA office in Serrekunda or other designated regional offices. Contact FSQA beforehand to confirm office hours or training schedules.
Step 3: Submit Application and Documents
Meet the concerned officer, express your interest in writing, and attach your CV along with all required documents (listed below). Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Step 4: Attend Food Safety Training
FSQA conducts mandatory food safety and hygiene training sessions for all applicants. This training covers personal hygiene, food contamination prevention, safe handling techniques, and sanitation practices.
Step 5: Undergo Medical and Fitness Tests
Applicants may need to undergo a medical examination, including a blood test and X-ray, either through FSQA or a certified medical practitioner. Submit the medical report as part of your application.
Step 6: Application Review and Approval
FSQA will review your documents and training attendance records. Applicants may receive updates via phone call or SMS during processing.
Step 7: Pay the Prescribed Fee
Once your application is accepted, pay the required fee as advised by FSQA. Keep the payment receipt for reference.
Step 8: Certificate Issuance
Upon successful completion of training and medical clearance, FSQA will issue the Food Handler Certificate, officially permitting you to handle, prepare, or serve food within The Gambia.
Processing Time: The process duration depends on training schedules and verification, typically 2–4 weeks from submission.
Required Documents
- Written expression of interest
- Updated CV
- Valid citizen identification (National ID, passport, or driver’s license)
- Proof of employment with a food establishment
- Medical fitness certificate from a certified doctor
- Blood test report (as required)
- Chest X-ray (as required)
- Six recent passport-size photographs (taken within three months)
- Copy of passport (for non-Gambians)
Note: Additional documents may be requested by FSQA depending on the applicant’s job type or medical history.
Office Locations & Contacts
Food Safety and Quality Authority of The Gambia (FSQA)
103 Kairaba Avenue, Serrekunda, The Gambia
Phone: (+220) 4399310 / 4399311
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.fsqa.gm
Eligibility
- All food handlers are eligible to apply, including:
- Chefs, cooks, and servers
- Food packers, labellers, and bartenders
- Owners and managers of food establishments
- Applicants must be 18 to 35 years old (or within the age range specified by FSQA).
Fees
- The application and training fee is determined by FSQA.
- Payments must be made directly at FSQA offices or authorized banks.
Validity
- The Food Handler Certificate is valid for the period stated on the document, typically one year.
- Renewal may require a refresher training course and updated medical test results.
Processing Time
- The process is generally completed within 2–4 weeks, depending on the completion of medical checks and training.
Instructions
- All applications must be fully completed before submission.
- False or misleading information may lead to revocation of the certificate.
- Certified food handlers must undergo medical examinations every six months or as required.
- If a certificate holder is found with a communicable disease, the certificate will be suspended or revoked.
- Certificates must be displayed prominently at the workplace and presented during inspections.
Required Information
- Full name of the applicant
- Valid citizen ID or passport number
- Address and postal code
- Email and phone number
- Date of application
- Employment details (company name and address)
- Applicant’s signature
Need for the Document
A Food Handler Certificate is a legal requirement for individuals working in food preparation, service, or distribution. It ensures compliance with The Gambia’s Food Safety and Quality Act, protecting consumers from foodborne illnesses and contamination.
Information Which Might Help
- The certificate is also known as a Food Handler License or Food Hygiene Card.
- Employers are required to ensure all food-handling staff are certified.
- FSQA inspections may occur periodically to verify compliance with health standards.
Other Uses of the Certificate
- Serves as proof of professional training in food hygiene.
- Required for restaurant registration, catering business permits, and street food licensing.
- Useful for employment verification in the hospitality industry.
