By Lamin Kujabi
Banjul, 15th May: His Excellency, President Adama Barrow on Wednesday, 14th May inaugurated the new office complex of the Ministry of Environment Climate Change and Natural Resources (MECCNAR) in Abuko, funded by the Government of The Gambia.
The Minister of Environment Climate Change and Natural Resources, Honourable Rohey John Manjang said having departments and projects under the purview of the Ministry being housed in one complex will make work more efficient, timely and productive.
She however, called on the staff of the ministry to take good care of the office and equipment in the building, describing cleaners as the most important staff in any office as the people who take good care of the environment.
The Minister noted the importance having good infrastructure, describing it as inevitable for the development of the country. She recalled that her ministry rented 10 different places together with its projects and departments. We were scattered all over the places… Of course all government offices must graduate from renting.” Minister Manjang asserted.
She went on: “The President has innovative ideas, his developmental initiative is visible in road infrastructure, hospitals, schools, electricity and many more.”
She further acknowledged the former Minister of Environment Lamin Dibba who is now an Ambassador for initiating the project. “During the construction of the building, we were faced with many challenges but the President kept telling us we must have solution. Thanks to the President for his leadership,” she emphasized.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment Climate Change and Natural Resources, Mr Ebrima Jawara affirmed that having their projects and departments under one building will make coordination and communication more effective.
Director General, Gamworks, Mr Omar Gaye explained that Gamworks was engaged to conduct an assessment, which they did and submitted to the Ministry of Environment. The former contractor spent D77 million, and 70 % of the work was done and a new contract was signed with additional money being put.
The new building has 93 offices, over 50 toilets, a main conference room, and four meeting rooms. The building houses the Department of Forestry, the Department of Parks and Wildlife life and all the projects under the ministry, such as WACA, OMVG, and RICA.
