The Gambian government has contracted engineers from Damen Shipyards Group to provide long-term technical training for staff of Gambia Ferry Services following the arrival of the country’s new environmentally friendly ferry, Transport Minister Ebrima Sillah has announced.
Speaking on Gambia Radio and Television Services, the minister said engineers from the Dutch shipbuilding company will remain in the country under a one-to-two-year contract to support training and capacity building for local ferry personnel.
Mr. Sillah explained that the technical partnership is intended to ensure that Gambian engineers, captains, and maintenance staff acquire the skills needed to operate and maintain the country’s newest ferry, named Barra. The vessel recently arrived in the country as part of the government’s efforts to modernize ferry transport and improve connectivity across the River Gambia.
According to the minister, the newly delivered ferry is equipped with modern hybrid technology that sets it apart from older vessels currently operating in the national fleet.
“This ferry is different from others because it does not only depend on fuel; it also uses solar energy and battery systems that help power the engine,” Mr. Sillah said.
The hybrid system allows the vessel to operate more efficiently while reducing fuel consumption and environmental impact. Officials say the ferry represents an important step toward introducing greener transport solutions within the country’s maritime sector.
Mr. Sillah also highlighted the ferry’s passenger and vehicle capacity, describing it as one of the largest vessels currently operating in the country.
According to him, the ferry can accommodate up to 2,000 passengers and 27 vehicles per trip. However, when vehicle numbers are high, passenger capacity will be reduced to around 1,200 to ensure safety and comfort. The vessel is also equipped with between four and five restroom facilities to improve the travel experience for commuters.
The minister noted that the training program being conducted by engineers from Damen Shipyards Group will help local ferry staff gain a deeper understanding of the vessel’s complex systems and technology. The initiative is expected to strengthen technical expertise within the country and reduce long-term dependence on foreign technicians.
Earlier this year, Gambia Ferry Services sent a team of engineers, electricians, and captains to the Netherlands to undergo specialized training at Damen Shipyards facilities ahead of the ferry’s delivery. The training focused on the vessel’s operational systems, electrical components, and maintenance requirements.
Officials said the program was designed to prepare Gambian technical staff to manage the ferry independently once it arrived in the country.
Mr. Sillah also revealed that the government is exploring ways to diversify ferry routes in order to reduce congestion on the busy Banjul–Barra crossing, which serves thousands of commuters daily.
“To diversify the route, we are also looking at the possibility of establishing another ferry link from Bonto to Banjul,” the minister said.
He explained that such a connection could significantly reduce traffic from communities in Brikama, Kombo East, and Foni traveling into the capital.
Authorities believe the introduction of the new ferry, combined with technical training for local staff and potential new routes, will help improve reliability, efficiency, and sustainability in the country’s ferry transport system.
