By Yunus S Saliu
The Sanyang Beachside Road, as part of EPC Lot 9, has been officially inaugurated, with the government describing the project as a major step towards improving connectivity, stimulating economic activity and unlocking the development potential of the coastal area.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, said Sanyang has long contributed to The Gambia’s social and economic life through agriculture, fishing, trade and tourism, noting that its coastline remains one of the country’s important natural assets.
He said improved road access to the area would create opportunities to unlock its economic potential while opening a new chapter in the development of Sanyang and surrounding communities.
“The importance of this road, however, extends beyond Sanyang itself. It forms part of the broader development of our coastal corridor and remains within the context of the economic transformation we envision for this part of the country,” he said.
The President said reliable road infrastructure would become increasingly important as The Gambia prepares for the development of the planned deep-sea port, particularly in connecting coastal communities, economic centres and port facilities.
He stressed that roads being constructed today must anticipate future demands and provide the connectivity needed to support growing trade, investment, tourism and other economic activities.
According to him, the completion of the Sanyang Beachside Road would significantly improve access to the coastal area, facilitate the movement of people and goods, and create better conditions for businesses and investment.
He said the project would benefit farmers, fishermen, traders and entrepreneurs while creating opportunities for young people and women to participate in and benefit from economic activities generated by improved infrastructure.
The President further noted that improved access would make Sanyang attractions more competitive and accessible to visitors.
“In this sense, the road is not simply a route to the beach, but also part of the infrastructure that will connect communities to the wider opportunities emerging along our coast,” he said.
He described The Gambia’s coastline as increasingly important to the country’s future, citing its potential not only as a source of livelihoods and tourism but also as a gateway for trade, investment and regional economic activity.
The planned deep-sea port, he added, would be an integral component of that future and would require supporting infrastructure capable of efficiently moving people, goods and services.
“Roads such as the Sanyang Beachside Road will ultimately become a crucial part of this infrastructure network,” he said.
However, President Barrow cautioned that increased investment and economic activity along the coast must be accompanied by responsible development and environmental protection.
He called for careful management of the development process and urged authorities to ensure that local communities remain active participants in and beneficiaries of the opportunities created.
The Road, he said, forms part of the government’s broader road development agenda aimed at strengthening the national road network.
Through the nationwide road development programme, the government continues to invest in strategic infrastructure designed to connect communities and support national development.
“Our vision is not only to construct roads, but also to build the infrastructure foundation for a more connected, competitive and prosperous Gambia,” he said.
His Excellency urged residents and communities in the area to protect and preserve the newly constructed infrastructure while appealing to road users to observe traffic regulations and exercise caution, particularly towards elderly people and other vulnerable road users.
He noted that the lifespan of infrastructure depends not only on the quality of construction but also on how responsibly it is used and maintained.
He said the real value of the Sanyang Beachside Road would ultimately be measured by the businesses it supports, investments it attracts, visitors it brings, goods it helps reach new markets, and opportunities it creates for young people and women.
“My government will continue to provide a conducive environment for our citizens, but the private sector, entrepreneurs and communities must seize the emerging opportunities,” he said.
As the country moves towards the development of the planned deep-sea port and the transformation of the coastal economy, he said the Road should serve as part of the foundation for future development.
Meanwhile, he commended the Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure (MOTWI), the National Road Authority (NRA), the contractor, engineers and other stakeholders for their roles in the successful completion of the project.
He also expressed appreciation to traditional leaders, local authorities and residents of Sanyang for their cooperation, patience and support throughout the implementation of the project.
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