Njie made the remarks during a consultative stakeholder meeting jointly organised by GPA and Alport Banjul on Wednesday, 23 July, at the Prime Atlantic Hotel in Banjul. The forum featured presentations on digital transformation through enhanced IT systems, port security, and discussions on operational challenges and future priorities.
“With a consensus partner now on board, we must demonstrate improved efficiency that sets us apart from previous administrations,” Njie stated. “Our partnership with the Albayrak Group and Alport should stand as a success story, not one we’ll regret.”
He urged all actors, including shipping lines and service providers, to take full ownership of their responsibilities and respond proactively to GPA’s coordination efforts to ensure seamless port operations that benefit the entire nation.
Highlighting the economic significance of the ports, Matarr Ceesay, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport, described the facility as a key driver of The Gambia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). He noted that the volume of imported goods whether for domestic consumption or regional transit generates vital revenue and directly influences the national cost of living.
Ceesay explained that the government, recognising persistent operational challenges at the port, opted to seek alternative solutions to upgrade infrastructure and improve efficiency. This led to a successful concession agreement with the Albayrak Group.
“This agreement is a test case for us, and we intend to ensure it delivers real value,” he affirmed.
He acknowledged notable improvements since the partnership took effect emphasising that the Ministry of Transport remains committed to monitoring and evaluating the implementation process.
The meeting served as a platform to review recent developments, reinforce cooperation, and align the GPA’s strategic vision with the expectations of its key stakeholders.
