By Yunus S Saliu
President Adama Barrow on Saturday said his government has invested more than D18.5 billion from domestic revenue in road construction, resulting in the completion of over 1,200 kilometres of all-weather roads across The Gambia.
Barrow made the statement during the official inauguration of the 91-kilometre Kiang West Roads Project in Keneba, Lower River Region.
He said since taking office in 2017, his administration has largely relied on domestic resources to finance major road infrastructure projects.
“Through domestic revenue, we have invested over D18.5 billion and delivered more than 1,200 kilometres of all-weather roads. This is unprecedented,” he said.
The president said the investments have improved national connectivity and strengthened ownership of development processes.
“This reflects our vision of using infrastructure as a driver of economic transformation, national integration and inclusive growth,” he said.
Barrow cited several completed road projects, including the Banjul Roads, Drainage and Sewerage Project, the Niumi-Hakalang Road Project, the Sabach Sanjal and Saloum roads, the Kiang West Roads Project, and ongoing works on the Kabada roads.
“These are not isolated interventions. They are part of a coordinated national infrastructure programme designed to connect regions, unlock economic potential and strengthen national unity,” he said.
He further announced that by the end of 2026, the government would have added 375 kilometres of paved roads to the national road network.
Barrow said the expansion was made possible through policy measures aimed at strengthening domestic resource mobilisation and introducing innovative financing mechanisms.
“Our strategy is to expand infrastructure at scale, reduce dependency on external financing, and retain investment benefits within the Gambian economy,” he said.
The president also commended the execution of the Kiang West Roads Project by Gambian-owned firms, GAI Construction Company and City Scapes Consultancy Company, under the supervision of the National Roads Authority.
He said the project demonstrates the growing capacity of local companies and government efforts to promote Gambian expertise, create jobs and retain value within the country.
“Every kilometre of road constructed by Gambians is an investment not only in infrastructure, but also in skills, experience and national confidence,” he said.