During an inspection visit to the Banni–Salikenni to Njaba Kunda road project, a 16.2-kilometre stretch under construction for the past three years, the officials made it clear that quality will never be sacrificed for speed. The project, which should have been completed last year, has faced delays due to material constraints and other challenges.
During the site visit, the NRA boss was seen pointing out several issues that the contractor needed to address. While officials acknowledged the delays, they made it clear that fast-tracking the work simply to meet a new deadline would not be accepted if it meant compromising quality. They emphasised that the standard of work remains the government’s top priority.
Minister Sillah echoed these concerns, noting that only six kilometres of the second seal have been completed, far short of the expected 10–13 kilometres. “By now, this road should have been completed and inaugurated. We are not happy with the progress,” he said. While acknowledging challenges in sourcing materials, he insisted that delays were unacceptable. “This corridor is vital, linking Central Badibou to the main highway. For generations, this road has been in poor condition. We must accelerate work to meet the new target date.”
The Minister emphasised that the government will never compromise on standards. “All our projects pay close attention to design specifications. We expect contractors to address issues identified by NRA engineers to ensure quality,” he said.
Looking ahead, Minister Sillah highlighted the scale of the government’s infrastructure drive. “Almost 90 to 95 per cent of the 365 kilometres of roads we started will be inaugurated this year. By the end of Ramadan, we expect to open this road, along with projects in Kiang West, Brufut–Madiana, CRR North, Foni, Kombo and Kabada,” he revealed.
He added that feasibility studies are underway for 900 kilometres of new roads, with 150 kilometres already surveyed. “This year, we are not only inaugurating roads but also launching new ones. Combined with the Ministry of Agriculture’s GIRAV project, which is constructing another 200 kilometres, the Gambia is simultaneously undertaking over 1,000 kilometres of road works. This is unprecedented in West Africa, given the size of our economy.”
Minister Sillah concluded by linking infrastructure to broader national development. “The President has always said that to develop a country, you must connect communities and services. Alongside roads, the government is expanding electricity, bus services, health and education access. This will empower farmers to reach markets and strengthen economic growth.”
NRA boss Janneh, however, voiced concern over the pace and quality of progress. “This is one of our favourite contractors, and we are supportive of her efforts. But it has proven extremely difficult. We are very displeased with the progress we have seen, and we must call a spade a spade,” he said. He warned that if the contractor fails to heed technical advice, alternatives will be considered. “Our priority is to support her to complete the work, but if that fails, we will take drastic measures to hold her accountable.”
Consultant and project supervisor Pa Bansy Bojang stressed that his institution will not compromise on standards, assuring that the road, once completed, will last at least 25 years. “We are putting all measures in place to ensure durability and safe passage of water,” he said.
Contractor Marie Senghore, Managing Director of Bajam Enterprise Limited, explained that despite constraints in sourcing basalt from Senegal and cement supplies, work is progressing steadily. She expressed confidence that the road could be completed by the end of February, noting that three rainy seasons have passed without major damage to the works already done.
