In its scrutiny of audited financial statements and activity reports of state-owned enterprises for 2022, the committee urged the Government and the Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) to establish a robust monitoring framework to ensure investors meet their obligations, service standards are upheld, jobs are protected, and government revenue is not compromised.
“The Government and GPA shall establish a robust monitoring framework for the PPP concession agreement, including investment obligations, service standards, employment safeguards and revenue protection,” the committee recommended.
Audit Findings
The warning follows a performance audit by the National Audit Office on cargo handling at the GPA, reviewing progress since a 2021 audit. The review focused on vessel turnaround times, port congestion, stevedoring services, monitoring mechanisms, and private sector participation.
The GPA reported feasibility and engineering design work, engagement with development partners, adoption of the PPP model, and procurement processes. It also cited land acquisition, use of Inland Container Depots, procurement of cargo handling equipment, introduction of a Rent Waiver Policy, and deployment of IT systems to improve operations.
Persistent Challenges
Despite reforms, the committee found that vessel turnaround times have worsened. Containerised cargo now takes between seven and 17 days to discharge, while bulk cargo requires eight to 15 days. Additional berths remain unbuilt, leaving operations reliant on ship-mounted cranes.
“Planning without timely execution has limited the practical effect of corrective measures,” the committee concluded.
To address shortcomings, the committee called for: Faster delivery of the port expansion project; Acquisition of critical cargo handling equipment; Binding turnaround time targets; Quarterly Audit Committee meetings, and a comprehensive action plan within 60 days to address outstanding audit findings
The committee acknowledged progress in labour restructuring, governance reforms, and the establishment of Dock Labour Company Limited, but stressed that urgent action is needed to prevent the PPP concession from undermining the country’s economic and strategic interests.
