During his surprise visit to the Gambia Ports Authority, President Barrow engaged the port’s management on the state of the ferry services.
According to the information provided, the current landing site for the ferries, which has seriously worn out, was constructed in the 1970s through German government cooperation.
“I held talks with the Managing Director about the landing site and they have already awarded the contract for the complete overhaul and construction of a new landing facility for the ferries. This was presenting the biggest problem but now the management has taken action because it is urgent and they had to take loan from the commercial banks to help speed up the construction,” President Barrow revealed.
The new facility will help ease the congestion experienced at the crossing. However, the government’s thinking for a permanent solution is to have a bridge over Banjul-Barra crossing.
In the meantime, the president advised the ports authorities to begin a 24-hour operation at the Farafeni Bridge at the earliest possible time: ‘’They are currently operating up to 12 midnights because they are running on generators. I have asked them to extend the electricity supply from Farafenni which is more realistic and you can have 24hours service. The night service is infrequent because travelers know you close at 12midninght. Once that begins, customers will travel 24hours over the bridge”.
GPA’s managing Director, Mr. Ousman Jobarteh described seeing the President at his institution as “a turn from the top.”
He said it shows commitment from the highest level, and the staff and management are more than motivated. “It’s a sign of commitment that government is very serious about the ports. We will take urgent measures to address and maximise the potentials for growth,” he said.
