By: Isatou Sarr
The National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) hasannounced a massive reduction in meter connection fees across its ongoing electrification project beneficiary communities in rural Gambia.
NAWEC said in a press release issued on Friday that this reduction was supported by its development partners.
“NAWEC is pleased to announce a major reduction in Meter Connection Fees across all ongoing rural electrification projects. This was through the support of development partners including the World Bank, European Union (EU), European Investment Bank (EIB), and Africa Development Bank (ADB). This initiative is designed to ease access to electricity for rural households, and contribute to the government of The Gambia’s goal of achieving universal access by December 2025, “the release stated.
Under this new arrangement, which takes effect in November 2024, according to the release, connection fees will be reduced from standard GMD 8,500 to a nominal GMD 500 for meter connection making electricity more affordable for thousands of rural households.
This reduction is expected to benefit approximately 72,000 residents, significantly alleviating the financial burden of connection fees and enhancing electricity accessibility in underserved communities.
NAWEC, however, warned interested persons in the beneficiary communities to make payment at the NAWEC’s nearest customer service centre only and not to any individual or entity.
“NAWEC encourage all affected communities to cooperate fullywith their contractors during the installation process, as well as with NAWEC staff who will be facilitating these efforts. The commitment and collaboration of community members are essential to ensuring that this initiative reaches all intended households efficiently and effectively” the release noted.