Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – President Adama Barrow has described the commissioning of Phases 1 and 2 of the Bertil Harding Highway expansion, along with the launch of Phase 3, as a significant milestone in The Gambia’s infrastructural development. He made these remarks on Saturday, February 22, 2025, during a grand ceremony at the Airport Junction in Old Yundum, attended by both Gambians and foreign dignitaries.

The 22-kilometer highway upgrade, a key component of Barrow’s national development agenda, is expected to enhance mobility, reduce travel time, and stimulate economic growth by facilitating trade and job creation. Speaking at the event, the president emphasized that the project symbolizes a collective vision of national progress and opportunity.

“This project will not only improve transportation but also strengthen our economy by boosting trade, creating jobs, and improving access to essential services,” President Barrow stated. He reiterated his government’s commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure that benefits all Gambians.

Since assuming office in 2017, Barrow’s administration has placed road development at the core of its agenda, recognizing its role in connecting communities, facilitating commerce, and improving access to healthcare and education.

“We know that roads are not just pathways. They connect communities, facilitate commerce, and enhance access to health and education, as well as other facilities and economic opportunities,” he noted, urging Gambians to unite in building not only better roads but a stronger and more prosperous nation.

The event also featured the official signing of the contract for Phase 3 of the project, reinforcing the government’s commitment to sustained infrastructure development. As part of the ceremony, President Barrow presented certificates of appreciation to key stakeholders, including the Islamic Development Bank (ISDB) as the donor agency, SaudConsult as the consultant, Arezki Group as the contractor, the National Roads Authority (NRA) as the implementing agency, and the Ministry of Transport, Works, and Infrastructure (MOTWI) as the client.

With the expansion of the Bertil Harding Highway progressing, the Barrow administration continues to prioritize modern infrastructure as a catalyst for national development, reinforcing its vision of a more connected and economically vibrant Gambia.