By: Fatou Krubally
The National Assembly Member for Foni Bintang, Bakary Badjie, has raised concerns over The Gambia’s reliance on imported electricity, warning that the country remains vulnerable to external disruptions amid ongoing power outages.
Speaking during debate on the worsening electricity situation on Thursday, Badjie questioned the sustainability of depending on power imports from neighbouring Senegal.
He recalled asking the Minister of Energy whether it was prudent for The Gambia to rely on external supply, saying any disruption could have serious consequences for the country.
Badjie said governments must anticipate future risks and invest in long-term solutions, including stronger domestic power generation capacity.
He argued that the current blackouts highlight the need for a more self-reliant energy system.
The Foni Bintang lawmaker dismissed suggestions that criticism of the electricity situation was politically motivated, saying prolonged outages had become a daily reality for citizens.
He also cited the impact of the outages on households during the recent Eid-ul-Adha celebrations, saying many families suffered losses due to power interruptions.
Badjie’s remarks were made during debate on a Matter of the Day tabled by Latrikunda Sabiji NAM Yahya Sanyang, who described the electricity crisis as an economic and social emergency.
Other lawmakers, including Kiang West NAM Lamin Ceesay and Wuli East NAM Suwaibou Touray, also expressed concern over the situation and called for improved management and accountability in the energy sector.
Government-aligned lawmakers, including Lower Fulladu West NAM Gibbi Mballow and Majority Leader Billay G. Tunkara, defended government efforts, citing ongoing investments in electrification and energy infrastructure.
Debate continues as power outages persist in several parts of the country.