National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) Managing Director Gallo Saidy has appealed to Gambians to remain patient as the utility company works to address persistent electricity supply challenges.
Saidy made the appeal on Tuesday during President Adama Barrow’s visit to NAWEC power stations in Kotu and Brikama. The visit followed protests in parts of the Greater Banjul Area and Banjul over prolonged and frequent power outages.
Saidy acknowledged the frustration among consumers, saying NAWEC was aware of the difficulties caused by the current situation.
“We are aware of the frustration and constraints that the Gambian people have,” he said, appealing to citizens to give the company more time as efforts continue to improve electricity supply.
He said reduced electricity imports from the regional grid had contributed to the current supply difficulties. According to Saidy, The Gambia received between 70 and 80 megawatts of electricity from Guinea last year, supported by high water levels in the country’s hydroelectric dams.
He said lower rainfall this year had affected the availability of electricity from Guinea, contributing to reduced supplies through the regional grid.
Saidy also cited broader regional and international developments, including the conflict in the Middle East, as factors affecting the energy sector, although he did not provide details on the specific impact on The Gambia’s electricity supply.
The NAWEC managing director said the company was working to increase generation capacity, with technical teams operating around the clock to install additional generators.
He also highlighted renewable-energy projects planned for different parts of the country, while noting that such projects would require time before becoming fully operational.
“We are trying to be doers, to get it done, rather than to come here and tell you nice words,” Saidy said, adding that NAWEC was committed to resolving the current difficulties and restoring more stable electricity supply.
He said the completion of ongoing projects would eventually strengthen the country’s electricity system and provide greater stability for consumers.
Saidy also appealed for calm amid growing public frustration and urged citizens not to damage NAWEC infrastructure.
He said electricity facilities are public assets and that any damage to the infrastructure could ultimately affect the same communities experiencing the current supply challenges.
