Sillah: Gov’t has addressed more than half of Gambia’s road infrastructure deficit

The minister of Transport, Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Ebrima Sillah, has said the government has addressed more than half of The Gambia’s estimated 4,000-kilometre road infrastructure deficit through construction projects undertaken since 2017.
Speaking at the Mansa Kunda Ministerial Town Hall Meeting on Friday, 6 November 2026, Sillah disclosed that approximately 1,200 kilometres of roads have been constructed since 2017, while another 1,600 kilometres are currently being surveyed nationwide.
He explained that the deficit is partly compounded by residential estates being developed without adequate road networks, leaving the government with the responsibility of providing access roads.
The minister also revealed that the World Bank has commenced engagements to conduct studies on 500 kilometres of roads, separate from the government’s ongoing survey. Of this, the Bank is considering financing 150 kilometres, while exploring partnerships with other development institutions to mobilise resources for the remaining 350 kilometres.
He expressed optimism that continued government investment and support from development partners would accelerate efforts to address the country’s remaining road infrastructure needs.
On bridge development, Sillah cited the OIC and Sukuta-Jabang overpasses as examples of infrastructure projects that have improved traffic movement and reduced the need for traffic lights at those junctions. He said the Sukuta-Jabang bridge is expected to be officially inaugurated by President Adama Barrow soon.
He added that traffic lights would still be installed at strategic locations where necessary, while emphasising the importance of maintaining existing bridges to ensure their safety and durability.
Addressing concerns over demolitions associated with road expansion, Sillah said the process is often complicated by property ownership disputes and the technical requirements that must be fulfilled before construction begins.
He explained that many properties are occupied by relatives of registered owners who are often absent, requiring families to obtain a power of attorney before compensation can be processed. Payments are made through the formal government banking system, but disagreements over who should receive the money sometimes cause delays, requiring the involvement of the Ministry of Justice.
He further explained that construction does not always begin immediately after demolition because the government must first clear the right of way and relocate affected utility services, including water pipes and cables, before contractors can access the sites.
The minister also appealed to motorists to give way whenever they hear ambulance sirens to facilitate emergency response, while noting efforts to improve access for ambulances and buses at designated points.