President Barrow Lays Foundation Stone for Historic Deep Sea Port in Sanyang

In a landmark ceremony held on Saturday, His Excellency President Adama Barrow laid the foundation stone for the construction of The Gambia’s first Deep Sea Port in Sanyang, Kombo South.

The ambitious project, described as “unprecedented” in the country’s maritime history, aims to position The Gambia as a major hub for international trade and shipping in West Africa.

Speaking at the ceremony, President Barrow highlighted the port’s transformative potential for the national economy, promising that it would create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, improve trade infrastructure, and enhance The Gambia’s competitiveness in the global market.

“This project is a turning point for our country. It will not only expand our capacity for imports and exports but will also bring new opportunities for business, employment, and development - especially for the people of Kombo South and the entire coastal region,” President Barrow stated.

Promise of Growth Amid Local Concerns

The port is expected to attract large-scale investments and modernise the maritime industry. However, the project has sparked mixed reactions among residents of Sanyang, Gunjur, Tujereng, and surrounding settlements.

Local leaders and community members have raised concerns about the potential displacement of homes, businesses, and farmlands. Environmental activists warn of possible threats to the fragile coastal ecosystems, including mangroves, fisheries, and sacred cultural sites in Kombo South.

In response, government officials reassured affected communities that environmental and social impact assessments have been conducted and promised “fair and transparent” compensation for any land or property affected.

Minister of Transport, Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Ebrima Sillah, called on the community to “embrace the opportunities” the project will bring, while committing to continue dialogue to address grievances.

Strategic Location for West African Trade

Once completed, the Sanyang Deep Sea Port will be capable of handling large container ships and bulk carriers, reducing commercial losses to neighbouring countries and opening up new trade corridors for Gambian exports.

The project is part of the government’s broader vision to modernise infrastructure and improve regional connectivity under the National Development Plan (2023–2027).

What’s Next?

Construction of the port is scheduled to commence later this year, with a projected completion timeline of five years.

As Kombo South prepares for this major development, attention will focus on how the government balances economic growth with environmental protection and the rights of local communities.

Residents of Sanyang, Gunjur, and Tujereng are expected to play a key role in shaping the narrative of how the Deep Sea Port impacts their livelihoods and heritage.