By: Fatou Krubally
The National Assembly’s Public Enterprises Committee has found that cargo handling delays at the Port of Banjul have worsened despite reforms implemented by the Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) following a 2021 performance audit.
The finding is contained in the Committee’s consolidated report on the follow-up performance audit on cargo handling, which was presented before the National Assembly on Tuesday.
The report reviewed the extent to which GPA had implemented recommendations from the 2021 audit, which assessed the efficiency, effectiveness and economy of cargo handling operations at the port.
The Committee acknowledged several measures undertaken by GPA, including plans to expand port infrastructure through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), increased use of Inland Container Depots, reforms in stevedoring services, restructuring of the Board and the signing of a Performance Contract with the Government.
However, lawmakers noted that the interventions have not yet translated into significant improvements in cargo operations.
According to the report, vessel turnaround times have deteriorated, with container vessels now requiring between seven and 17 days to discharge cargo, while bulk cargo vessels take between eight and 15 days.
The Committee attributed the delays partly to the limited availability of berths and the continued dependence on ship-mounted cranes for cargo handling.
It further observed that while container dwell time has improved and Inland Container Depots have contributed to easing congestion, challenges remain due to inconsistent application of standard container stacking practices.
The Committee recognised progress made in labour reforms through the establishment of Dock Labour Company Limited and improvements in institutional governance. However, it said there was insufficient evidence of regular Board Audit Committee meetings and effective monitoring mechanisms.
To address the challenges, the Committee recommended that GPA and the Ministry of Finance fast-track the port expansion project, acquire essential cargo handling equipment and introduce enforceable vessel turnaround targets under the Performance Contract.
It also called for stronger monitoring of the PPP concession agreement and urged GPA to submit a comprehensive action plan within 60 days to address outstanding audit recommendations.
The Committee concluded that although GPA has recorded progress in governance and institutional reforms, delays in infrastructure development and operational improvements continue to affect cargo handling efficiency at the Port of Banjul.
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