On September 19, 2026, President Adama Barrow inaugurated the 4.5-kilometre Gunjur Seaside Road, a government-funded project aimed at improving connectivity to the coastline and boosting tourism and local economic activity. The road, implemented by Green Vision International under the supervision of the National Roads Authority (NRA), connects the Brusubi–Kartong Highway to the Gunjur seaside. This project is expected to strengthen connectivity, improve access to the Tourism Development Area, and support the socio-economic development of Gunjur and surrounding communities.
The newly completed road features concrete-paved carriageways, drainage systems on both sides, street lighting, and a branch linking it to the Sheikh Ahmad Futi Grand Mosque. The road is expected to enhance safety and facilitate movement for residents, businesses, worshippers, and visitors. According to the NRA, the project will have a positive impact on the local community, providing easier access to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities.
During the inauguration ceremony in Gunjur, President Barrow called on opposition figures, including Essa Mbaye Faal, to join his government in working for national development. He emphasized that the election period is over and resources that would otherwise be spent on politics should be channelled into development. Barrow disclosed that he had contacted UDP leader Ousainou Darboe to join him, after GDC leader Mamma Kandeh joined his alliance.
President Barrow urged members of his party and alliance to unite, citing development projects across the country, including expanding electricity access to more than 1,000 communities. He stated that his administration is fulfilling its contract with the people, having laid 1,600 kilometres of road foundations. Barrow expressed confidence that future projects will surpass the work done in the past ten years.
Commenting on the current political climate, Barrow noted that many people now feel empowered to speak out, recalling that in 2016, people feared speaking out against former President Yahya Jammeh. He alleged that some political actors want to use money to influence voters and urged Gambians to examine the records of political leaders before making choices.
Minister of Works and Infrastructure, Ebrima Sillah, said the people of Gunjur had long awaited the project, launched about three years ago. He emphasized that the road is vital for transporting fish products to major markets in Brikama and will particularly benefit women engaged in fish smoking, sales, and gardening. Minister of Agriculture, Demba Sabally, added that the corridor is highly productive for oranges and mangoes and the road will help farmers get to their fields and move produce to market.
President Barrow described the inauguration as historic, addressing a longstanding need. He acknowledged criticisms when he laid the foundation stone but expressed satisfaction at its completion. Barrow thanked the people of Gunjur for their patience and noted that despite heavy rain and advice to postpone, he insisted on proceeding with the inauguration.
Key points
- President Adama Barrow inaugurates 4.5km Gunjur Seaside Road
- Barrow calls for opposition to join government for national development
- The road project aims to improve connectivity and boost local economic activity
