The project, dubbed - Kanifing Municipal Council Road Network Project (KMRNP), is set to span over three years. It also includes 15.4 kilometers of roads within the municipality and 5.9 kilometers of drainage system in Bakau. The project will also include the construction of eleven feeder roads and two bridges.
The project, to be carried out by Longain Road and Bridges Company Limited, is fully funded by the council through taxpayers' money.
At the event, Ahmed Talib Bensouda, Mayor of KMC, announced that this is the Council's largest project ever, aimed at improving infrastructure to enhance quality of life and promote sustainable development.
The project, he added, will address inadequate road networks that have hindered economic growth and connectivity, while also reducing traffic congestion and creating new opportunities for economic development and better access to essential services.
Mayor Bensouda promised that the project would improve access to schools, healthcare facilities, markets, and job opportunities, recognising that robust infrastructure plays a significant role in promoting development.
“I made it a priority to improve the road network. Today, he is proud to fulfil that promise and lay the foundation for a brighter future for the Kanifing Municipality. The project is not just about constructing roads and drains but also about breaking down barriers, bridging gaps, and promoting inclusivity. Its objective is to establish pathways to opportunities and prosperity for all residents of the Kanifing Municipality.”
Mayor Bensouda further revealed that his Municipal’s aim is to tackle the issue of affordable housing within the Municipality, where rapid population growth has led to soaring rental prices.
He informed that those projects are aimed at providing sustainable housing, modern markets, day-care centres, and affordable transportation to empower the youth and promote entrepreneurship.
He thus called for the support of the community to achieve this vision.
Also speaking, Binta Janneh-Jallow, deputy Mayor and Councillor for Bakau New Town expressed gratitude to the council for the KMRNP initiative.
She described the project as a significant milestone in their ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and promote accessibility within the Municipality.
That, she believed, would also ensure smoother transportation and connectivity for both residents and visitors.
“By investing in our roads and transportation infrastructure, we are laying the foundation for economic growth, social development, and improved quality of life for all members of our community. It will not only facilitate easier movement of people and goods but also contribute to reducing traffic congestion, enhancing road safety, and promoting sustainable urban development.”
Xu Peng, Contractor of Longjiang Road and Bridge Company, expressed appreciation to the Council for selecting them as the contractor of the project.
Peng used the forum to express their resolve in prioritising safety, quality and progress in the construction of the project as a way to showcase the company's strength.
“Facing the future, all project builders of Longjian are willing to work hand in hand with the people of The Gambia, with shared hearts, goals, and shared endeavours, to effectively carry out project construction and strive to benefit the people of the Gambia. We are confident, determined and capable of creating a masterpiece in lasting legacy.”
