On Monday, President Adama Barrow reaffirmed his enduring commitment to build a bridge connecting Banjul and Barra while overseeing the launch of a new ferry aimed at alleviating persistent transportation challenges at one of the nation’s most heavily trafficked routes.
While addressing the residents of the North Bank Region, Mr. Barrow announced that the newly inaugurated vessel, named Barra, would not represent the government’s last effort in this initiative. He mentioned that another ferry, named Banjul, is anticipated to follow, while also reiterating plans for a permanent bridge that would eventually replace the crossing.
“I will not stop at providing ferries,” Mr. Barrow said. “We will build a bridge that will put an end to everything,” he said.
The Banjul-Barra route, linking the capital to the north bank of the River Gambia, has historically served as an essential yet pressured channel for passengers, goods, and vehicles. In recent years, ferry breakdowns and delays have led to public frustration and criticism regarding the government’s management of the service.
Mr. Barrow defended himself against the criticism, highlighting the significant infrastructure improvements achieved during his tenure. He referenced the successful completion of bridges in Farafenni, Basse, and Fatoto—projects that were once deemed improbable—as proof that the Banjul-Barra bridge is attainable.
“There was a time when ferry problems sparked public outrage,” he said. “Some even claimed that The Gambia had never lacked a ferry and that both my government and the country had failed. I find that perspective absurd. To judge a nation’s progress solely on ferry services ignores the strides we’ve made in electricity, water supply, roads, salary increases, and maintaining peace across the country.”
The president acknowledged that ferry services have faced increasing pressure for many years, fueled by the growing demand for transportation and trade. He characterized the inclusion of the Barra ferry as an important advancement in enhancing capacity and ensuring reliability on the route.
The new vessel, he stated, is crafted to improve operational efficiency and passenger comfort; however, he warned that it would not, by itself, address the system’s enduring challenges.
“Infrastructure investment must be matched by professional management,” Mr. Barrow stated, urging ferry authorities to enhance maintenance systems, manage costs, and elevate customer service to guarantee safe and reliable operations.
He took the opportunity to highlight his administration’s attentiveness to local issues. In response to a request from the Alkalo of Barra regarding the construction of a road, Mr. Barrow stated that he has already instructed the appropriate minister to proceed with the project.
“I am your servant,” he told the gathering. “I will deliver on what you ask.”
