Africa-Press – Gambia. The Minister of Transport, Works and Infrastructure (MOTWI), Honourable Ebrima Sillah, announced on Tuesday the commencement of a nationwide 902-kilometre road feasibility and survey exercise, describing it as a first in Gambian history.
The announcement was made in Dalaba, Niamina, Central River Region (CRR) South, during a three-day rural roads inspection tour that began on 19 January and ended on 21 January 2026. Minister Sillah was accompanied by senior officials from his ministry and the National Roads Authority (NRA).
According to the Minister, the survey and feasibility study, covering geotechnical, environmental, social safeguard, and detailed design components, is being conducted entirely by Gambian engineers. This approach is expected to save the government substantial funds.
“When we initially assessed the cost of conducting feasibility studies for 902 kilometres, it was estimated at USD 600 million if handled by external consultants. Instead, we relied on our own engineers, who have years of experience validating consultants’ work,” he said.
Minister Sillah added that the programme is fully funded by the Gambian government and aligns with President Adama Barrow’s vision for nationwide infrastructure development.
“You cannot complete 902 kilometres in a single year, but people will see commitment, progress, and ongoing work. This is a long-term national investment,” he said.
He further noted that tenders for the CRR North and South loops will be launched after the completion of the feasibility studies, with President Barrow expected to lay foundation stones after Ramadan.
Addressing delays on some ongoing projects, the Minister said the government is working with contractors and consultants to accelerate delivery. “We are pushing contractors to mobilize, stockpile materials, and fully utilize machinery. Weekly monitoring meetings are in place to prevent delays and cost overruns,” he added.
On construction material shortages, particularly basalt and bitumen, Minister Sillah said supply chains have improved. “Basalt supply has improved with an additional supplier from Cape Verde. Bitumen remains a challenge, but the government is working tirelessly to address it,” he said.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to rural communities, particularly in Niamina and Lower and Upper Fulladu, describing the survey as the first visible fulfilment of promises made by President Barrow.
Speaking at the site, NRA Managing Director Sulayman Summareh praised the speed and efficiency of the exercise. “Within just two weeks, we are on course to complete 170 kilometres of survey work in CRR South and begin CRR North. A consultant would normally take six months to achieve this,” he said, describing the operation as a landmark achievement for national capacity building and cost savings.
For More News And Analysis About Gambia Follow Africa-Press
