Banjul, 24th February 2025: His Excellency President Adama Barrow on Saturday, February 22nd launched the third phase of the twenty-two-kilometre (22km) Bertil Harding Highway project, having commissioned phases 1 and 2 on the same occasion. This is part of activities marking the Gambia’s diamond jubilee celebration.
In his address, the President described the occasion as a celebration of the realisation of another major milestone on the country’s development programme.
“Certainly, this project is more than just the expansion of a highway; it is a dream come true, a visible symbol of progress, economic growth, and national transformation, and an inspiration for the Government to continue pursuing its development goals,” remarked.
He reminded that since taking office in 2017, his administration has prioritised road infrastructural development, “because of the role it plays in boosting trade, creating jobs, and improving access to essential services”.
He said the Bertil Harding Highway is one of the most vital transport corridors in the country, as it links major economic zones, residential areas, and international gateways.
He noted that while the completion of phases 1 and 2 has already made travel much faster, safer, and much more efficient within the Greater Banjul Area and its satellite communities, “the launch of phase 3, is another bold step forward towards building a modern road network to serve our people for generations to come, while improving travel time along the corridor”.
The President expressed gratitude to the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, the Islamic Development Bank, and the Kuwaiti Fund for jointly financing about sixty-five percent of the project.
He revealed that his government has invested USD $33 million to ensure the successful implementation of the project. “This is another clear evidence of our commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure that supports long-term economic growth and national development”.
Phase 3 of the project will include key infrastructural improvements; such as additional lanes, drainage systems, street lighting and pedestrian walkways, interchanges and junctions, landscaping and, most importantly, an overpass bridge at the Sukuta-Jabang intersection.
The overpass is expected to greatly reduce traffic delays at one of the busiest junctions in the country and, by extension, enhance safety for motorists and the communities in the area.
President Barrow assured of his commitment to enhancing not just road network but also to the vision of a modern integrated transport system including marine and air transportation.
This project will not only enhance mobility and reduce travel time, but also create jobs, facilitate commerce, and strengthen our economy.
AGIB Bank Inauguration
In a similar vein, the President as part of the Gambia’s diamond jubilee celebration, on Friday, February 21st inaugurated the head branch of AGIB Bank, along Kairaba Avenue, describing the moment as an affirmation of the growing strength and vibrancy of the nation’s private sector.
By Lamin Kujabi
