By: Fatou Krubally
The Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs has announced that The Gambia has secured $52.6 million grant from the International Development Association (IDA) to upgrade critical transport and energy infrastructure across the country.
According to a press release issued by the Ministry, the IDA Board of Executive Directors approved the grant on May 29 under standard IDA terms. The grant is part of the Gambia Infrastructure Project, which aims to enhance access to resilient roads and energy networks in targeted regions, while strengthening institutional service delivery capacity.
The Finance Ministry outlined five main components of the project: “Resilient Infrastructure Access,” which will improve reliable roads and energy networks; “Policy and Planning,” focused on developing effective strategies and governance frameworks; “Service Delivery Modernization,” to enhance efficiency; “Project Management and Capacity Building,” supporting implementation and training; and a “Contingent Emergency Response” component to address unforeseen challenges.
The Ministry also stated that key investments would target the rehabilitation of 60 kilometers of rural and urban roads and the connection of 80 communities to the national electricity grid. The project is expected to directly benefit 40,000 people, while 100,000 urban residents 65,000 of whom will also benefit from improved roads and will gain better access to electricity.
Additionally, the Ministry highlighted that the project included support for institutional capacity building within the Ministry of Transport, the National Road Authority, the Ministry of Petroleum, Energy and Mines, and the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority. It also covers funding for project management and stakeholder training to ensure effective implementation and sustainability.
According to the Ministry, the landmark grant comes at a time when infrastructure upgrades are urgently needed to support economic growth and improve the quality of life for Gambians.
