The meeting, which was scheduled from 31st January 2024 to the 1st February 2024, was geared toward providing an opportunity for stakeholders to clarify the Program deliverables and expectations.
In November 2021, the US Government and The Gambia signed a $25 million bilateral grant agreement for the Threshold Program. The program aims to improve governance, economic freedom, and investments in the country. It focuses on strengthening the power sector's governance and operations and improving NAWEC's ability to provide sufficient power consistently.
Saffie Dambelleh, Chief Executive Officer of MCA, expressed delight at the country securing a grant for the Power Sector Threshold Program Support Contractor, outlining that GFA Consulting Group and Mercados Aries International Consortium were selected as the PSTS Contractor and also the team of consultants would include three embedded advisors for MoPE, PURA, Office of the President, and NAWEC.
He outlined that the PSTS contract has completed two phases within two and a half years. “Phase one costs US$3.413 million and focuses on fundamental change and commitment building using PDP methodology. Phase two costs US$8.478 million and aims at strategic investment and consolidating change through action requests.”
Mrs Sharon Cromer, US ambassador to the Gambia, stated that the U.S. government has committed to partnering with The Gambia to improve the power sector and increase access to reliable electricity throughout the country.
She noted that they will achieve this by providing universal energy access through renewable energy, including solar sources, while helping the country meet its greenhouse gas reduction goals.
She reminded that reliable electricity in The Gambia can improve education, healthcare, environment, and business opportunities. “It allows children to study after dark, access lifesaving medicines, reduces pollution and encourages private-sector investment.”
The implementation phase of the MCC Threshold Program, Ambassador Cromer added, started at a crucial moment in The Gambia’s history where all eyes are on The Gambia- watching as the country strengthens its democracy, improves the economy, and invests in its people.
Similarly, she revealed that the Ministry of Finance recognised the efforts of the MCA Team for pushing the event to a success with the recruitment of the consultants GFA Consulting Group and Mercados Aries International Joint Venture to implement the Power Sector Threshold Support Contract.
Also speaking, Seedy Keita, Minister for Finance, noted that all parties are advised to support their obligations for the successful implementation of the program.
Minister Keita reminded that critical players include MCC for oversight, MCA-Gambia for local ownership, and GFA Consulting Group and Mercados Aries International Consortium for executing the scope of work.
