The Gambia's Minister of Transport, Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Ebrima Sillah, has announced that the government has made significant progress in addressing the country's road infrastructure deficit. Since 2017, approximately 1,200 kilometres of roads have been constructed, bringing the total to over half of the estimated 4,000-kilometre deficit. This update was provided at the Mansa Kunda Ministerial Town Hall Meeting on November 6, 2026.
In addition to the constructed roads, another 1,600 kilometres are currently being surveyed nationwide. The minister attributed part of the deficit to residential estates being developed without adequate road networks, leaving the government to provide access roads. He expressed optimism that continued government investment and support from development partners would accelerate efforts to address the country's remaining road infrastructure needs.
The World Bank has commenced engagements to conduct studies on 500 kilometres of roads, separate from the government's ongoing survey. The Bank is considering financing 150 kilometres, while exploring partnerships with other development institutions to mobilise resources for the remaining 350 kilometres. This development is expected to further boost the government's efforts to improve the country's road infrastructure.
Minister Sillah also highlighted the importance of bridge development in improving traffic movement. He cited the OIC and Sukuta-Jabang overpasses as examples of infrastructure projects that have reduced the need for traffic lights at those junctions. The Sukuta-Jabang bridge is expected to be officially inaugurated by President Adama Barrow soon.
Addressing concerns over demolitions associated with road expansion, Sillah explained that the process is often complicated by property ownership disputes and technical requirements that must be fulfilled before construction begins. He noted that many properties are occupied by relatives of registered owners who are often absent, requiring families to obtain a power of attorney before compensation can be processed.
The minister also appealed to motorists to give way whenever they hear ambulance sirens to facilitate emergency response. He noted efforts to improve access for ambulances and buses at designated points. Furthermore, Sillah emphasised the importance of maintaining existing bridges to ensure their safety and durability.
The government's efforts to address the road infrastructure deficit are ongoing, with traffic lights to be installed at strategic locations where necessary. Minister Sillah's update provides a positive outlook on the government's progress in addressing the country's road infrastructure needs, with continued investment and support from development partners expected to yield further results.
Key points
- 1,200km of roads constructed since 2017
- World Bank to finance studies on 500km of roads
- Government efforts to improve road infrastructure ongoing
