Gambia
Ports Authority (GPA) clearing and forwarding agents last Monday held their
annual general meeting at Paradise Suites hotel in Kololi. The meeting was
attended by several dignitaries, including GRA deputy commissioner of customs
and government officials.
The
annual gathering was meant for members to come together and discuss or reflect
on their progress, constraints, and challenges and take stock of their progress
and carve the way forward.
President
of the clearing and forwarding agents, Sulayman Joof said the gathering is a
constitutional mandate that would enable members to take stock of their
activities of the previous year and map out plans for the future. “We had
challenges in both operation and the inconsistencies of business.’’
He
said on the home front, they face difficult working conditions at the port due
to inadequate equipment and space. He called on the government to support
Gambia Port Authority in the shortest possible time or they may lose many
business.
“During
last year, we experienced many diversions of container cargoes to other ports
that should come to the port of Banjul.”
He
also urged members to endeavor to learn more about the profession, saying as
customs, clearing and forwarding is not an easy job.
Secretary
General, Momodou Sowe said they have been meeting on quarterly where they deal
with issues and engaging stakeholders.
