Africa-Press – Gambia. The General Transport Union (GTU) has formally submitted a complaint to the Senegalo-Gambian Permanent Secretariat, drawing attention to mounting challenges facing Gambian transit goods passing through Senegal. The Union, led by President Omar Ceesay, is calling on the Gambian government to take immediate diplomatic action to address non-tariff barriers, security-related harassment, and unlawful taxation practices that undermine both bilateral agreements and regional trade protocols.
In a statement released following a meeting on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, the GTU Executive Committee and concerned transit operators described the growing difficulties experienced by transporters moving goods from the Port of Banjul to destinations through Senegalese corridors.
“On Wednesday, 28th May 2025, the Executive Committee of the General Transport Union, together with concerned transit operators, under the leadership of our able President, Mr. Omar Ceesay formally lodged a complaint to the Senegalo-Gambian Permanent Secretariat regarding persistent and increasing challenges encountered by Gambian transit goods moving from the Port of Banjul to their final destinations via Senegalese corridors,” the GTU said.
Key Challenges Identified by the GTU:
• Non-tariff barriers (NTBs)
• Security harassment and checkpoints
• Unjustified delays and restrictions
• Illegal taxation and document declaration obstacles
According to the Union, these issues constitute a direct violation of several regional and international agreements, including:
• The bilateral agreement signed at Mansakonko between the Governments of The Gambia and Senegal in August 2024
• Existing bilateral trade and transport agreements between the two countries;
• The ECOWAS Protocol on the Free Movement of People, Goods, and Services;
• Provisions under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA);
• Other relevant international conventions on trade and transport.
The GTU has urged the Gambian government to swiftly initiate diplomatic and institutional dialogue with Senegal to ensure full adherence to these agreements, which are essential for:
• Facilitating smooth and uninterrupted movement of goods;
• Strengthening trade and economic cooperation;
• Promoting regional integration under the Senegambia framework.
The General Transport Union reaffirmed its commitment to supporting government efforts to safeguard trade and transport rights, collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure the efficient operation of commercial transport, and advancing the free movement of people, goods, and services across the ECOWAS region and the broader African continent.
For More News And Analysis About Gambia Follow Africa-Press
