Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The government of The Gambia has categorically refuted allegations circulating on social media regarding the Concession Agreement with Africa50 and its implications for future bridge construction. The claims, initially shared by Dr. Gajigo on the Kerr Fatou social media network and subsequently amplified, suggest that the agreement bars the government from constructing any new bridges, including the proposed Banjul-Barra Bridge, for the next 15 years.

In a statement released today, the Ministry of Information, Media, and Broadcasting Services dismissed the reports as “baseless and unfounded.” The government clarified that the exclusivity clause within the Africa50 Concession Agreement only applies to bridges built within a 50-kilometer radius of the Senegambia Bridge during the concession period.

This restriction, it emphasized, does not affect plans for the construction of the Banjul-Barra Bridge, which lies outside the specified radius.

“The Senegambia Bridge concession is an innovative and transformative financing model through asset recycling with Africa50. The government has ensured that the strategic national interest of The Gambia was safeguarded throughout the negotiation and signing process,” the statement read.

The government underscored its commitment to transparent governance and acknowledged the public’s right to scrutinize such agreements. However, it urged individuals and commentators to present their views fairly and accurately, cautioning against the spread of misinformation.

This marks the second instance where Dr. Gajigo has shared what the government terms “false narratives” about the Africa50 agreement. The Ministry reiterated its commitment to clarifying public misconceptions and assured citizens that the agreement aligns with the nation’s development objectives.