The Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) has taken a significant step towards expanding the Banjul Port and constructing a deep-sea port in Sanyang by issuing a Notice of Award to Albayrak of Turkey for the concession. The decision follows stiff competition and revenue losses faced by the port.

The Managing Director of GPA has told Foroyaa Newspaper that expanding Banjul Port and the rationale behind opting for a deep-sea port in Sanyang is on the right track, and that the concession has not been signed yet, but negotiations with Albayrak have been ongoing since September 2023.

The contract is expected to be signed before mid-2024, with construction set to commence once conditions precedent are met. The first phase of the Sanyang project is projected to be completed within 24 months.

The expansion will allow the port to handle more than 2 vessels simultaneously, with increased capacity to accommodate current and forecasted volumes. Dedicated facilities including container terminals, liquid and dry bulk terminals, fisheries port, cruise terminal, free zones, and SEZs will be constructed.

The expansion plans also include digitalization efforts, such as the implementation of IT systems and automation, aimed at improving efficiency without compromising job security for workers. The GPA will be both a landlord and shareholder in the Project Company, ensuring that the country benefits from fixed fees, royalties, and dividends.

The new port infrastructure is expected to enhance The Gambia’s competitive advantage in regional markets, with the government and GPA playing a key role in the management and operations of the port facilities post-completion.