By: Isatou Sarr
Frustrated Gambians under the banner of Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA) Friday took to the streets defying heavy rain to protest over persistent power cuts and water shortages experienced in the country.
The protesters marched from Ice-Man Junction to National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC)’s Offices where they dropped a petition and gave out 10-day ultimatum.
In a petition addressed to NAWEC Managing Director Galo Saidy, GALA expressed “profound concern and outrage” on behalf of citizens, citing prolonged electricity and water disruptions across the country.
“For far too long, Gambians have endured recurring blackouts, water shortages, voltage fluctuations, and service disruptions,” the petition stated.
The group noted that declines in electricity supply have also affected water production and distribution, worsening the national crisis. It stressed that access to electricity and clean water should be treated as a basic necessity and public service.
Despite what it described as substantial investments in the energy sector between 2017 and 2026, GALA said reliable service delivery remained limited. It attributed the situation to governance and operational challenges rather than funding constraints.
The group cited concerns including weak management, poor planning, lack of accountability, and inefficiencies in procurement and project execution, referencing audit reports and parliamentary findings.
GALA said NAWEC, as a state-owned enterprise, has a legal and constitutional duty to ensure effective management of public resources and delivery of essential services.
“Accordingly, GALA hereby issues a Ten (10) Day Ultimatum to NAWEC to restore and normalize reliable electricity and water supply across The Gambia,” the petition stated.
The organization said it would not accept further promises or explanations, calling instead for measurable action and immediate results.
It warned that failure to achieve significant improvement within 10 days would trigger further lawful and constitutional actions to hold relevant authorities accountable.
GALA spokesperson Omar Saibo Camara submitted the petition to NAWEC Managing Director Galo Saidy and the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Energy, Abdoulie Jallow.
The development comes amid continued public pressure on NAWEC over long-standing power and water supply challenges despite ongoing reforms and external support.
The protests reflected growing public anger over daily hardships caused by frequent blackouts and water supply interruptions. Residents say the situation has increased living costs, disrupted businesses, and affected hospitals, schools, and households nationwide. All eyes are now on NAWEC’s response as the 10-day deadline begins.
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