By: Binta Jaiteh
The Managing Director of the Gambia Ports Authority (GPA), Ousman M. Jobarteh, has guaranteed Gambians that the country’s ports are solely owned by the state.
This, he says, run contrary to popular belief, surrounding the ongoing concession agreement with Alport Banjul.
Speaking in a stakeholder meeting held on Wednesday in Prime Atlantic Hotel at Banjul, Director Jobarteh, clarified that both the existing GPA’s core assets in Banjul and the upcoming Sanyang Deep Seaport remain under government ownership. “One thing is clear: the port has not been sold. The fixed assets remain under government ownership,”
Describing the new Sanyang facility as a “game changer,” Jobarteh said it is expected to accommodate larger vessels, eliminate congestion surcharges, and reduce shipping costs. “The justification to impose a congestion surcharge no longer exists,” he noted, projecting a drop in freight costs as early as next year.
He also revealed that components of the Sanyang project will be specifically allocated for Gambian enterprises involved in trucking, warehousing, and insurance, ensuring that local businesses benefit from the anticipated surge in port activity.
The forum brought together key stakeholders to review recent developments, address operational concerns, and reinforce collaboration. GPA’s Director of Corporate Services and Business Development, Mr. Sunkary Jarju, opened the session by emphasizing the need for unity and progress. “This meeting is critical, as it brings together all stakeholders including state agents to reflect and collectively enhance service delivery,” he said.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport, Works, and Infrastructure, Mr. Matarr Ceesay, reiterated the government’s dedication to modernizing port infrastructure through strategic partnerships. He explained that the concession with Alport Banjul arose from the need to address capacity challenges at the Banjul port. “President Barrow has laid the foundation stone for the Sanyang port and is closely monitoring its development. This project is central to our economic strategy,” Ceesay stated.
Chairman of the GPA Board of Directors, Mr. Kebba Tamsir Njie, called on all stakeholders to foster trust and collaboration. “There are doubts, but we must believe in ourselves and in this partnership. Together, we can restore the port’s regional prominence,” he said.
Alport Banjul’s Deputy General Manager, Mr. Salih Levant Kacar, also gave updates on the company’s progress and reaffirmed Alport’s commitment to working closely with Gambian stakeholders.
The Sanyang Deep Seaport project is expected to significantly reshape the national logistics landscape, reduce shipping costs, and open new economic opportunities for Gambians across the maritime sector.
