Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Gambian government has approved a modest increase in transport fares following consultations with transport operators over the recent surge in fuel prices.
In a press release issued on April 10, the Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure said the decision followed a series of meetings with the General Transport Union and other stakeholders held on April 2, 8 and 9.
The discussions were convened to address the impact of rising fuel costs and the resulting unilateral fare increases implemented by some commercial drivers.
According to the ministry, both parties agreed on a fare adjustment ranging from 5 dalasis for commercial vehicles operating within the Greater Banjul Area to 15 dalasis for routes serving Foni in the West Coast Region. The adjustment, however, does not apply to motor tricycle bikes, also called “Keke.”
Authorities described the measure as a temporary response to the current economic pressures driven by rising global fuel prices, which the government linked to ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
The ministry also disclosed that the government has provided a subsidy of more than D316 million on fuel for the month of April in an effort to cushion both transport operators and commuters from the full impact of the price increases.
Officials said discussions with stakeholders will continue as authorities assess whether further fare adjustments may be necessary for other parts of the country, particularly in rural regions.
The Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure urged cooperation from all parties during what it described as a challenging global economic period and thanked the public for its patience.
It reiterated its commitment to ensuring safe and affordable transportation across the country while working with stakeholders to manage the effects of rising fuel costs.
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