The Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) and Alport Banjul Limited on Thursday swore in newly-elected executives of their respective staff associations, marking the end of a transition period and the beginning of a new leadership cycle.
The ceremony, held in Banjul, brought together senior management of GPA and Alport, representatives of sister institutions, including the Gambia Ferry Services, security agencies at the port, shipping companies, and staff from across the port community.
Chairman of the GPA Electoral Commission, Mam Peteh Dampha, described the elections as free, fair, and transparent, noting that the swearing-in marked the final stage of the electoral process.
He urged the new executives to complete the transition by taking over all association documents and addressing outstanding matters, including the review of constitutions, which he said did not reflect current realities.
Speaking on behalf of GPA management, the Deputy Director of Corporate Services, Landing B. Sanyang, congratulated the new leaders and reminded them that they were elected to serve staff interests.
He stressed that employees would closely monitor their performance and expected improved delivery compared to previous administrations, adding that accountability would be critical.
The Human Resource Manager of Alport Banjul Limited, Mehmet Tayyib Alan, speaking for the Managing Director, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to working with the new executive in the interest of staff welfare.
He commended the conduct of the elections and encouraged constructive engagement to achieve shared objectives.
After the administration of the oath by GPA’s Deputy Director of Legal Affairs, Almameh Manneh was sworn in as President of the GPA Staff Association, along with other executive members.
In his address, Manneh described the mandate as a responsibility rather than a reward, pledging to lead with integrity, professionalism, and results.
He said staff associations should be partners in development and not adversaries, adding that inclusive staff representation contributes to stronger institutional governance and performance.
The newly elected President of the Alport Banjul Staff Association, Adama Jatta, underscored the importance of staff welfare in maintaining industrial harmony.
While acknowledging investments made under the Alport concession, she stressed that improved conditions of service, job security, training, and safety must advance alongside profitability.
She called on GPA, in its regulatory role, to ensure that commitments made to staff are fully honoured.
Both leaders pledged constructive dialogue, unity with sister staff associations, and a responsible defence of staff interests, as the ceremony concluded with calls for cooperation, accountability, and sustainable leadership in staff representation.
