By; Arret Jatta
The Mayor of the Kanifing Municipality, Talib Ahmad Bensouda, officially laid the foundation stone of 15.4 kilometers of roads in the municipality and 5.9 kilometers of drainage system in Bakau.
The project includes the construction of eleven feeder roads and two bridges.
Mayor Bensouda described the project as a significant milestone and the biggest project ever rolled out in the history of the council. The initiative, he added, underscored the council’s commitment to enhance the lives and livelihoods of the communities through improved infrastructure and sustainable development.
“The road network project involves constructing new 11 feeder roads and two bridges over 15.4km long. It also constitutes installing 5.9 kilometers of drainage system in my own hometown; the old Bakau ward with a project budget of over D300M,” he stated.
“This substantial investment aims to address the long-standing issue of inadequate road networks which have hindered the connectivity and economic growth in our community. Improved infrastructure will not only alleviate traffic congestion but also create opportunities for economic growth and better access to essential services like education and healthcare,” he added.
The Deputy Mayor of the Kanifing Municipality, Binta Janneh-Jallow also highlighted that the “ambitious” project aims to expand the road network for easy transport, saying an improved road network would contribute to reducing traffic congestion.
She further said that “she is looking forward to a successful implementation of the project” as she urged everyone to work hand in hand for a better future for the municipality.
The contractor Xu Peng of Longjian expressed gratitude to the Gambian people and local partners for their continuous support and guidance, which enabled them to operate in the country
He opined that the successful completion of the project would enable his company to earn the trust of the Gambian people.
“Longijan is confident, determined and capable of creating a masterpiece in collaboration with the KMC and the Gambian people in a project that will leave a lasting legacy,” he promised.
The foundation stone laying ceremony was, among others, attended by representatives of different political parties, National Assembly Members and the deputy leader of the United Democratic Party.
