By: Yunus .S. Saliu
As part of a weeklong national tour to monitor ongoing road infrastructure projects, the Honourable Minister of Transport, Works and Infrastructure, Ebrima Sillah, on Monday visited the Lot 4 Foni Road Project in the West Coast Region, expressing satisfaction with the quality and progress of works on the 22.53-kilometre stretch.
Accompanied by senior officials from his Ministry, the National Roads Authority (NRA), project consultants, contractors, and members of the press, Minister Sillah inspected various sections of the road project, which are being implemented in four phases: Kalagi–Kamangka–Bondali (10.2 km), Jorem Nema Kunda–Jorem Bunda Kunda (1.45 km), Sangajorr–Dasilami (5.78 km), and Kamfenda–Tintinbaa (5.1 km).
Speaking to journalists at the Darsalam–Sangajor Road site, the Minister emphasized the strategic importance of the road project. “We are in Foni here, which is Lot Four of the EPC projects, covering about 24 kilometers of roads across different parts of the region. This road is extremely important for connectivity in Foni, especially linking villages like Darsalam to the main highway,” he noted.
He pointed out that the road, once completed, would enhance access to social services and facilitate economic activities, especially for communities that have long awaited such developments. “This road has been a long-standing request since the days of Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, President Jammeh, and now President Barrow. Thankfully, it is during the time of His Excellency President Adama Barrow that these roads are being realized,” Minister Sillah stated.
The Minister also hinted at a previously completed feasibility study for a proposed bridge linking Tendaba and Foni, which could drastically reduce travel time between Kiang and Kombo regions. “Subject to availability of funds, government is considering implementing this project,” he added.
He, therefore, praised the performance of the contractors, consultants, and the NRA for their dedication, also citing their excellent work on the Kabada loop. “We are extremely happy with the quality and pace of work. If all goes as planned, we expect this project to be completed and handed over to the government,” he said.
Contractor Engineer Modou Dumbuya disclosed that the Lot 4 project is approximately 70 percent complete. “The total stretch is 20.7 kilometres of double surface road with three major culverts and seven Irish crossings. Kalagi–Bondali is fully structurally complete, while Sangajor–Darsalam is at 60% completion for culvert works,” he explained.
He further elaborated on innovative elements of the design, such as a spillway equipped with four gated channels designed to control water flow from nearby salt production areas. “This allows for water regulation during the rainy season and supports agricultural use like rice farming,” Engineer Dumbuya said.
The nationwide tour, which commenced in the North Bank Region with visits to key projects such as the Hakalang and Salikenni roads, is part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to ensure transparency, quality assurance, and community engagement in infrastructure development.
On the Hakalang loop, Minister Sillah confirmed near completion: “Almost all works are completed, with just six kilometers left to seal on Section Two from Albreda to Fass Chaw. Road furniture installation is ongoing, and the entire project is expected to be handed over by early July.”
The Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure continues to reinforce its mission to develop modern, accessible, and durable transport infrastructure across The Gambia, serving as a critical pillar for national integration and economic advancement.
Work Progress of Visited Roads In Brief
Lot 4 Foni Road Project, the 22.53km road project is divided into four sections as follows – Kalagi – Kamangka – Bondali is 10.2km; Jorem Nema Kunda – Jorem Bunda Kunda is 1.45km; Sangajorr _Dasilami is 5.78km; and Kamfenda – Tintinbaa is 5.1km respectively.
The project is contracted to SOMAGEC, and the Consultant is Gamecs.The Contractor completed the entire earthworks and pavement in road sections 1 and 2 and is now completing the base in road section 3. Works have also started in section 4 Kamfenda – Tintinbaa road, which is on the subbase. They are also on the civil work (concrete structures). The overall progress is approximately 70%.