Wellingaraba village in Jarra East District, Lower River Region, witnessed a historic milestone as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) officially launched the Bureng Lumo Improvement Project. The initiative, funded through the ECOWAS Cross-Border Cooperation and Free Movement and Migration Fund (CBC-MMF), is expected to transform livelihoods and boost regional trade.
Representing the Governor of LRR, District Chief Alhaji Ansumana Kanagie expressed deep appreciation to ECOWAS, the Council, and the Wellingaraba Village Development Committee (VDC) for their collaboration. He noted that the project would not only benefit Gambians but also border communities, and urged stakeholders to bring more development projects to the region.
Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Trade, Mr. Mamadi Dampha, hailed the project as a “landmark achievement” that will serve as a hub for economic activity. He stressed the importance of sustainability, saying the development showcases the value of investing in infrastructure. “This project is a testament to the sacrifice and commitment of all stakeholders,” he added.
Council Chairman Mr. Landing B. Sanneh recounted how the initiative began with the installation of 10 solar LED lights at the Lumo, followed by a proposal to ECOWAS that secured the funding. He proudly described Bureng as “the best Lumo in The Gambia,” attracting entrepreneurs from across border communities. He called the project “life-changing,” noting that it will enhance livelihoods and boost Council revenue to support further development.
Mr. Albert Siaw-Boateng, Director of Free Movement of Persons and Migration at ECOWAS, emphasized that the project was designed to strengthen regional integration and free movement of people. He praised the quality of work done and assured that ECOWAS is ready to fund more livelihood projects. “We want communities to put the Lumo into maximum use,” he said, citing similar interventions in Guinea-Bissau and Ghana.
The Bureng Lumo Improvement Project is expected to serve as a model for cross-border economic cooperation, reinforcing ECOWAS’s mission to empower local communities while deepening regional ties.
