The staff of the Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) working under the management of ALPort have announced a protest set for Monday. The planned “sit-down” is a direct response to what employees describe as unfair treatment, disregard for labour welfare, and alleged financial mismanagement since ALPort took over operations.
In a formal notice issued to media institutions, the protesting staff cited a breakdown in relations with management, pointing to unilateral changes in working conditions, pay reductions, and failure to address grievances.
“The protest is intended to bring public attention to these conditions and to demand accountability,” the notice stated, calling the matter one that “directly affects national labour standards, port operations, and public interest.”
Staff’s grievance centres on working hours and compensation. Employees allege that since ALPort began managing operations, they have been subjected to mandatory 12-hour shifts (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.).
The workers claim that despite the increased workload, no overtime payments have been made since February of last year. Staff view the practice as a clear violation of the labour laws and internal service rules.
“Management has made it clear that they do not intend to implement the 2026 service rule provisions,” a staff member explained, further undermining employee confidence in the institution’s leadership.
Beyond labour issues, employees have raised serious questions regarding the use of revenue generated by the Port of Banjul. Staff claim that ALPort management has admitted to lacking independent funding, stating that revenue generated at the Port of Banjul is being used to finance the development of the Sanyang Seaport.
The approach has sparked fear among workers that it compromises operations in Banjul and threatens long-term stability.
According to them fueling the growing frustration is the perceived absence of leadership and accountability at the highest levels.
ALPort staff report that when attempting to escalate their grievances, management informed them that the Board of Directors is “too busy” to attend to employee matters. Some board members, they were reportedly told, are dealing with issues involving the government.
They stated that the lack of a clear channel for securing oversight has left the workforce feeling “abandoned and unheard.”
The planned protesting employees are making an urgent plea for national intervention. They are calling on the Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure, the Labour Department, and all relevant authorities to immediately investigate the situation.
Workers argue that the ongoing issues at ALPort reflect a broader pattern of mismanagement that could have national consequences for the infrastructure of the Port of Banjul.
By Kexx Sanneh
