Speaking in a panel discussion at the recent African Development Bank Transport Forum (ATF2024) in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, PS Matarr Ceesay emphasised the importance of climate-resilient projects, backed by international partners, in safeguarding The Gambia’s future development.
Mr Ceesay was at the ATF2024 from 18 to 20 September in Abidjan, where he discussed The Gambia’s infrastructure challenges, highlighting that The Gambia, one of Africa’s most densely populated countries with approximately 200 people per square kilometer, faces immense pressure on its transport and drainage systems, particularly as around 80% of the urban population resides within a 20-kilometer radius.
Ceesay noted that the country’s low-lying geography makes it particularly vulnerable to natural disasters and climate change, further straining its infrastructure. However, he stressed that The Gambia has made significant progress in implementing climate-resilient projects, thanks to partnerships with international financial institutions like the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the World Bank.
One of the key projects discussed was the Banjul Port Expansion, which aims to enhance the port’s climate resilience and regional competitiveness. This project, Ceesay said, was supported by the AfDB. The support included the procurement of green ferries and the rebuilding of the main road connecting the port to the city, ensuring the infrastructure can withstand flooding and rising sea levels.
Another major success, he added, is the Senegambia Bridge, co-financed by the AfDB, which has revolutionised trade and transport in the region since its completion in 2019, boosting economic integration across West Africa.
Ceesay also emphasised the importance of integrating climate resilience into policy frameworks, noting that these efforts are designed to mitigate climate risks and promote sustainable development in The Gambia. He also highlighted the government’s National Development Plan, which focuses on recovery and climate adaptation, and expressed optimism that the country's infrastructure will be better equipped to handle future challenges.
ATF2024, which brought together transport and infrastructure ministers, industry leaders, and experts, focused on increasing private sector participation, de-risking policies, and developing innovative financing mechanisms for Africa’s transport sector.
The forum also addressed key issues such as road safety, multi-modal transport solutions, and urban mobility challenges - crucial discussions that would shape the future of transport in Africa.
