By: Binta Jaiteh
A private Turkish company Negmar, Tuesday launched a new ferry, the Salimiye Ferry as part of efforts to tackle crossing challenges between Banjul and Barra crossing point.
Negmar Investment Corporation entered The Gambia in 2021 through a bilateral agreement between the Turkish and Gambian governments.
Addressing members of the press corps in Banjul, Hali Abdoulie Gaye, Deputy Managing Director of Negmar, revealed that the project, valued at approximately $35 million, is a highly capital-intensive venture.
He explained that the company’s proprietor was initially sent to The Gambia to explore a ferry partnership, which ultimately did not materialize.
“As a result, the government decided to open the marine transport sector to private investment. Negmar became the first company licensed by the government to operate ferry services between Banjul and Barra,” Gaye stated.
He added that the government has supported the initiative by granting land in Banjul and Fort Bullen, with the Banjul ferry platform nearing completion.
“This ferry is a game changer, especially for the Banjul-Barra route. It will help diverse traffic from the Senegambia Bridge and air transport routes, enhancing connectivity not only between Banjul and Senegal but also to Mali and Guinea-Bissau. Banjul and Barra serve as international gateways,” he remarked.
The Salimiye Ferry can carry 80 vehicles, 30 trucks, and over 700 passengers. It is also fully air-conditioned for passenger comfort.
“We are not here to compete with the Gambia Ferry Services but to complement them and facilitate easier transportation for citizens,” Gaye emphasized.
Negmar’s Acting Managing Director, Orhan Demiral, highlighted that the ferry would operate day and night to meet the daily transportation needs of the people at affordable charges.
“This project will significantly reduce congestion and make travel more accessible for everyone. We plan to test the ferry before the end of the year and anticipate introducing additional vessels in the future. This marks the beginning of a long-term project, aiming to serve for the next hundred years, or possibly forever,” he assured.
Turkish Ambassador Turker Oba described the project as a positive and strategic development for Gambians.
“We all recognize that mobility is a challenge in The Gambia. This ferry will improve daily life for many who travel frequently. While I might prefer to fly to Senegal, this new ferry will solve many transportation issues. It is a strong support for Gambian lives,” he reiterated.
Ambassador Oba also urged the public to view the project as a public service rather than purely an economic trade venture, noting that the company works closely with the government.
He concluded by thanking the Gambian government for its unwavering commitment and support in ensuring the project’s success
