By Haruna Kuyateh
Communities in rural Gambia have hailed the ongoing road construction works under the Gambia Inclusive Resilience and Agricultural Value Chain Project (GIRAV).
They described the initiative as a major boost to agriculture, transportation and socio-economic development.
The project, funded by the Government of The Gambia and the World Bank through the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Livestock, is expected to improve access to markets and facilitate the transportation of agricultural produce. The road works are being undertaken by a Chinese construction company.
Regional and local authorities have commended the government and the World Bank for the initiative, noting that improved road infrastructure would enhance agricultural productivity, increase household incomes and reduce post-harvest losses.
Governor Lamin Saidykhan of the North Bank Region thanked the government and the World Bank for what he described as a transformative intervention aimed at strengthening farmers’ capacity and improving access to healthcare, education and security services.
He said his office, together with district authorities, would closely monitor the implementation of the project and urged communities to support the construction works.
According to Governor Saidykhan, the project will create employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers. He called on young people to take advantage of the opportunities provided through the initiative.
Community representatives also welcomed the project, highlighting its expected impact on healthcare delivery and rural connectivity.
Sohna Khan, women’s leader from Kuntair, and Alagie Gaye, a youth leader from Kerr Alagie Karu in Jokadou District, described the road construction project initiated by President Adama Barrow as a significant development for the area.
They said the road linking Kuntair and Kerr Amadou would improve connectivity among several communities and facilitate access to essential services.
Khan noted that the improved road network would strengthen healthcare delivery by enabling the timely referral of patients, particularly pregnant women and children to health facilities.
Ali Bah, Alkalo (village head) of Mbamori Kunda and Chairman of the Lower Badibou Alkalolu, said the construction of the road linking Njawara, Kerr Pateh Koreh and Minteh Kunda would significantly improve the lives and livelihoods of residents.
He also commended the government for expanding rural electrification to several villages, noting that access to electricity has transformed livelihoods, enhanced income-generating activities and improved security in rural communities.
Bah appealed to the government to extend electricity services to villages that are yet to be connected to the national grid.
Moro Conteh, Alkalo of Conteh Kunda Sukoto, praised the government for what he described as significant strides in improving living conditions and strengthening democratic governance in the country.
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