The Gambia government has taken a significant step towards achieving universal electricity access by 2028 by signing contracts with two Gambian-owned companies, Kutehjumble Electrical & Consultancy Company Ltd and Powercon Mouguaw Enterprise, to electrify 10 communities in the West Coast Region. The contracts for Lots 1, 2 and 3 were signed on October 2, 2026, at the Ministry of Petroleum, Energy and Mines.
According to Petroleum, Energy and Mines Minister Nani Juwara, the country's access to electricity has increased significantly since 2017, from less than 40% to over 90%. He attributed this progress to government interventions and partner support, and emphasized the government's commitment to achieving universal access before the end of 2028.
Minister Juwara also urged the contractors to deliver the project on time, allowing for expansion to other communities in the region. He noted that the 10 communities had repeatedly appealed for electricity and expressed his government's willingness to work with all Gambian companies that have the capacity to deliver.
The project is in line with Pillar Three of the National Development Plan and the National Energy Sector Master Plan, which prioritizes universal access to electricity before 2028. The government is increasingly relying on local companies for critical infrastructure, and the initiative is expected to boost generation capacity and support rapid settlement and estate growth.
The contractors, Kutehjumble's Morro Darboe and Powercon Mouguaw's Oumar Boudib, assured the government of quality and timely delivery. Darboe, whose firm has operated for 10 years, appealed for public support, while Boudib acknowledged the challenges posed by the rainy season but expressed confidence in completing the job on time.
The Deputy Managing Director of NAWEC, Sompo Ceesay, said the project demonstrates the government's commitment to expanding access to electricity amid rapid settlement and estate growth. He also emphasized the importance of boosting generation capacity to meet the growing demand for electricity.
The electrification of the 10 communities in the West Coast Region is a significant milestone in the government's efforts to achieve universal electricity access by 2028. The project is expected to improve the quality of life for residents, support economic growth, and enhance the overall development of the region.
Key points
- The Gambia government aims to achieve universal electricity access by 2028.
- Two local companies, Kutehjumble Electrical & Consultancy Company Ltd and Powercon Mouguaw Enterprise, have been contracted to electrify 10 communities in the West Coast Region.
- The project is in line with the National Development Plan and the National Energy Sector Master Plan, prioritizing universal access to electricity.
