President Adama Barrow promised to commence a water canal project valued at around US$46 million by December 2022, following a visit to the affected victims in August 2022, following a period of heavy rains that caused property losses in the Greater Banjul Area.

Speaking during the visit, President Barrow stated that the flood problem that the communities in the KM and WCR have experienced for years will be resolved once the water canal project, which is scheduled to start in December, is completed.

Vice President Muhammed B.S. Jallow told parliamentarians on Wednesday that his ministry is still preparing for the World Bank-funded water canal project.

He stated that the water canal project, which involves the construction of water canals in The Gambia, was signed in 2022.

“The canal pipes will run from Lamin to Abuko and will connect to Bakoteh, Bundung to Kotu and was meant to solve flooding issues in The Gambia.”

In response to concerns from Serrekunda East member Hon. Musa Keita about the grant release, the Vice President stated, “The work project is still in its preparation stage.” According to the information I gathered, they are “inventing extensions of interest for the project’s study,” implying that if all goes well, the project may begin next year.

Many inhabitants in the West Coast Region and Kanifing Municipality are concerned about the lack of suitable drainage systems in these major towns. Unfortunately, the canal project to alleviate the consequences of severe rains, which can be disastrous to homes and livelihoods, is still experiencing unexplainable delays.