Healthcare facilities are now able to preserve vaccines and operate equipment more reliably. Schools are benefiting from enhanced digital learning opportunities. Businesses can operate longer hours, while households enjoy improved lighting and refrigeration.
Reliable electricity has also strengthened water supply systems powered by the grid and improved communication through easier mobile phone charging.
More than 95,000 prepayment meters have been installed nationwide, improving efficiency, transparency, and service delivery within the energy sector.
President Barrow emphasised that electricity access is not an end in itself but a catalyst for broader national development.
“Electricity is a powerful enabler of progress across education, health, water, agriculture, and enterprise. These are the pillars of sustainable development,” he stated.
He further noted that while more than 600 million Africans still lack access to electricity, The Gambia is positioning itself as a practical example of how smaller economies can accelerate progress through strong leadership and strategic partnerships.
The President commended the Ministry of Petroleum, Energy and Mines, the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs, the Ministry of Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs, and the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) for successfully delivering the project.
He also expressed deep appreciation to the World Bank, European Union, and European Investment Bank, as well as contractors and project teams for their contributions.
“Together, we are lighting homes, powering opportunity, advancing SDG 7, and building a more inclusive and resilient energy future for The Gambia and Africa,” President Barrow declared before officially inaugurating the Upper River Region electricity access network.
