Implemented by Green Vision International under the supervision of the National Roads Authority (NRA), the road connects the Brusubi–Kartong Highway to the Gunjur seaside.
According to the NRA, the project will strengthen connectivity, improve access to the Tourism Development Area, and support the socio-economic development of Gunjur and surrounding communities.
The road features concrete-paved carriageways, drainage systems on both sides, street lighting, and a branch linking it to the Sheikh Ahmad Futi Grand Mosque. It is expected to enhance safety and facilitate movement for residents, businesses, worshippers and visitors.
Speaking at the ceremony in Gunjur, President Barrow called on opposition figures, including Essa Mbaye Faal, to join his government in working for national development.
“To the people I have not called, people like Essa Faal, come and join me. Let us work together. We are looking for only peace and to work for this country,” he said.
Barrow said the election period is over and resources that would otherwise be spent on politics should be channelled into development. He disclosed that when GDC leader Mamma Kandeh joined his alliance, he also contacted UDP leader Ousainou Darboe to join him.
“If you believe in your knowledge and your ability, come and join President Barrow. What we did in 2021 will be more than what we will do this year,” he told supporters.
The President urged members of his party and alliance to unite, citing development projects across the country including expanding electricity access to more than 1,000 communities.
“If you are a leader, the reason you are chosen is that there is a contract between you and the people that you have to fulfil,” he said, adding that his administration is fulfilling that contract.
Barrow said his government has laid 1,600 kilometres of road foundations and that work done in the past ten years will be surpassed by future projects.
Commenting on the current political climate, Barrow said many people now beat their chests because his government has made them no longer afraid, recalling that in 2016 people feared that if they spoke out, former President Yahya Jammeh would give them to the crocodiles.
He alleged that some political actors want to use money to influence voters and urged Gambians to examine the records of political leaders before making choices.
“There are political leaders who do not go to naming ceremonies, weddings, funerals, and other social events, but now want people to give them their country,” he said.
Describing the inauguration as historic, Barrow said it addresses a longstanding need. He acknowledged criticisms when he laid the foundation stone but expressed satisfaction at its completion.
“Allah helped me to fulfil my intention. Human beings cannot do everything, but God is in control,” he said, noting that despite heavy rain and advice to postpone, he insisted on proceeding.
“I would like to congratulate the people of Gunjur because, on the day I came here to inspect the road, my vehicle was stuck in traffic for about 30 minutes because of the people. They were happy that the hardship they had endured was coming to an end. The happiness of the people nearly made me cry,” he added.
Minister of Works and Infrastructure, Ebrima Sillah, said the people of Gunjur had long awaited the project, launched about three years ago.
He said the road is vital for transporting fish products to major markets in Brikama and will particularly benefit women engaged in fish smoking, sales and gardening.
“There are a lot of gardens along this corridor. From now on, they will be able to reach their markets quickly,” Sillah said.
Minister of Agriculture, Demba Sabally, said the corridor is highly productive for oranges and mangoes and the road will help farmers get to their fields and move produce to market, while also boosting the fisheries sector.
