By Yunus S. Saliu
President Adama Barrow on Monday officially commissioned the newly acquired Green Ferry “Barra” at the Barra Ferry Terminal, marking a significant step in efforts to modernise The Gambia’s transport infrastructure and enhance mobility between the North and South Banks of the River Gambia.
The commissioning ceremony brought together cabinet ministers, National Assembly members, regional governors, deputy mayors, councillors, senior government officials, and traditional and religious leaders.
In his address, President Barrow described the new vessel as a key addition to the national transport system and a driver of economic growth. He said efficient transport gateways, including ferry services, ports, airports, and telecommunications, remain critical to national development and competitiveness.
He noted that under the National Development Plan (YIRIWA), his administration continues to prioritise investment in transport infrastructure aimed at positioning The Gambia as a regional hub for trade, distribution, and re-export activities.
“The commissioning of the Green Ferry ‘Barra’ represents a major enhancement in fleet capacity along the critical Banjul–Barra crossing,” President Barrow said, adding that the vessel was designed to improve operational efficiency and passenger comfort.
He highlighted that the River Gambia, stretching about 360 kilometres inland, divides the country into two, making ferry services essential for national connectivity. He added that increasing traffic in passengers and freight has placed growing pressure on existing ferry operations.
President Barrow urged the management of the ferry services to ensure proper maintenance of the new vessel, stressing the need to shift from reactive repairs to preventive maintenance systems to guarantee long-term efficiency.
He reaffirmed government commitment to upgrading ferry infrastructure through strategic partnerships, dredging works to improve navigation, and the construction of improved passenger facilities, including waiting areas, sanitary facilities, and restaurants.
The President also disclosed plans to upgrade the Banjul Shipyard under a broader port concession framework to strengthen maintenance capacity for the ferry fleet.
He expressed appreciation to the African Development Bank for financing the project and to Damen Shipyards Group for providing technical expertise in the construction and delivery of the vessel.
Speaking on behalf of the President of the African Development Bank Group, Dr. Lamin Barrow described the ferry as a transformative investment in sustainable maritime transport, noting that it incorporates hybrid green technology aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing emissions.
He said the project reflects the Bank’s commitment to supporting Africa’s transition to low-carbon and climate-resilient transport systems.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Managing Director of the Gambia Ports Authority Ousman Jobarteh, North Bank Region Governor Lamin Saidykhan, and other stakeholders, including traditional leaders, welcomed the commissioning of the new ferry and described it as a boost to national connectivity and economic activity.