President Adama Barrow has highlighted the significant progress made by his government in the past decade, particularly in the North Bank Region. Speaking in Passi Chally, Upper Niumi, as part of his Meet the People Tour, Barrow stated that his administration has electrified 204 communities in the region. This achievement is a substantial improvement compared to the 40 communities electrified in 50 years under former Presidents Jawara and Jammeh combined.
The President emphasized that the transformation is evident nationwide, with various sectors experiencing significant development. He recalled that in 2017, the main demands from speakers were for basic necessities such as water, electricity, roads, schools, and hospitals. However, he noted that these demands are no longer prevalent, indicating that his government has made considerable progress in addressing these needs.
Barrow provided regional breakdowns of the electrification achievements, stating that the Central River Region has seen 355 communities electrified, compared to 25 in 50 years. The Upper River Region has had 220 communities electrified, against 32 in 50 years, while the Lower River Region has seen 82 communities electrified, compared to 14 in 50 years. He expressed confidence that his government's efforts have made a significant impact.
The President also addressed the issue of taxpayer contributions to the country's development. He questioned whether Gambians were not paying taxes during the 50 years of Jawara and Jammeh's rule, yet the developments were not as evident. Barrow attributed the current progress to the government's intelligence, strategies, self-esteem, and love for the country.
In addition to electrification, Barrow highlighted the significant progress made in road development. He stated that previous regimes built 855km of mainly highways, whereas his government has constructed over 1,500km of roads, including feeder roads and the rehabilitation of Banjul. The President noted that Banjul, which was once in a deplorable state, has undergone significant transformation.
Barrow expressed optimism about the future, stating that the achievements of the past decade are just the beginning. He indicated that the government's plans for the next phase are more ambitious and will further transform the country. The President also mentioned that over 300 villages remain without electricity, but have been surveyed and contracted for electrification.
The President's Meet the People Tour, which runs from October 1-19, aims to engage with the public and update them on the government's progress. Barrow's address in Passi Chally, Upper Niumi, marked the beginning of the tour, during which he will likely discuss more development initiatives and interact with the local community.
Key points
- President Barrow's government has electrified 204 communities in the North Bank Region in 10 years.
- The government has built over 1,500km of roads, compared to 855km in 50 years under previous regimes.
- Barrow attributes the progress to the government's intelligence, strategies, self-esteem, and love for the country.
