As a state-owned enterprise, NAWEC needs your presidential support to help ease the burden on the lack of electricity and water supply. The recent power shortages are indeed affecting national development for both the public and private sector.
Mr. President, recent reports have indicated that NAWEC is struggling to settle three months debts amounting to D1.2 billion to SENELEC, and D350 million to Karpower, a Turkish company. These two companies help to supplement The Gambia's electricity supply, and the reported outstanding amount is attributed to NAWEC's current cash inflow challenges. It is worth mentioning that Gambia entered into agreements with Karpower and SENELEC in February 2018 and April 2022 respectively.
Karpower operates on a take-or-pay basis, which means NAWEC is obligated to pay for the fixed capacity of 30MW, whether the electricity is used or not. In contrast, NAWEC has turned to importing electricity from Senegal through the OMVG transmission line on a take-and-pay basis, which allows them to only pay for the electricity actually consumed. Both companies are paid in foreign currencies, adding an additional financial burden on the economy.
Mr. President, we cannot overemphasise the importance of a reliable supply of electricity and water in the country. Without these essential services, productivity and economic development will be severely stalled, discouraging potential investors and stifling local businesses. Moreover, ministries, departments, and agencies will be rendered ineffective in delivering the necessary services to the nation. Hospitals and health facilities are also affected as a result of the lack of electricity which puts the life of patients in jeopardy. Reliable utilities are fundamental to fostering growth and progress.
Mr. President, we must not overlook the importance of having constant electricity and water supply. Your government should take advantage of aid opportunities from countries like China and Turkey to address this longstanding issue, which has persisted since Tobaski Day on November 22nd, 1977.
The general power cut in the greater Banjul area last Thursday and Friday morning at 11am was severe and brought a lot of setbacks for the consumers.
NAWEC’s Deputy Director of communications, Buba Badjie told QTV on Friday that "the problem was more technical and not an issue of finance."
He said the technical issue came from Senegal, which supplies electricity to neighbouring countries including The Gambia. He added that "the breakdown affected not only The Gambia but also Senegal the distributor, Mali, Guinea Conakry and Mauritania”.
Mr. President, it is very important for NAWEC to take advantage of both traditional and social media to get the public informed about such issues and ensure wider understanding of what is happening.
NAWEC should also make efforts to send regular water bills to ensure customers can meet their monthly payments. For a long time, many consumers have not been receiving their water bills, and this issue needs to be addressed.
Good day!