GACH Group’s importation of basalt is poised to grant The Gambia much-needed relief months after the Senegalese government announced it would suspend exportation of the product. The Gambia has over the years depended on Senegal for basalt.
However, with the ban at a time when the government and Gambians are planning to embark on major projects, the country badly needed a saviour. Concerned about the dangers associated with the country’s running out of basalt, the GACH Global CEO, Abubakary Jawara, moved into action.
Following months of negotiations and back and forth, Jawara was able to secure a partnership agreement with a Cape Verdean company for the exportation of basalt from Cape Verde. The first vessel carrying tonnes of basalt was welcomed at the Gambia Ports Authority on Monday by Jawara himself, senior government functionaries, family, and well-wishers. This move aims to support national projects like road construction. The company in partnership with G5X has announced it will sell the tonne at a very reasonable price.
The 20,000 tonnes that arrived are in three sizes: 03, 3/8, and 1.6. It has been tested both in Cape Verde and The Gambia and found to be of high quality.
Mr Jawara, CEO of GACH Global Group, expressed gratitude for the support received from the Gambian government and President Adama Barrow, which has facilitated investment in the country. He assured a consistent supply of basalt to benefit local citizens. He assured the creation of more job opportunities.
Matar Ceesay, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, welcomed the strengthened ties and emphasized the government’s role as a major customer of basalt. He believes that increased competition will improve accessibility and pricing for building materials, further promoting trade and economic growth between the two nations.
PS Ceesay congratulated GACH and G5X on the significant milestone and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting local companies in international trade.
Gilberto Baros, an executive board member of G5X, a consortium of five companies focused on creating a multiplier effect through synergy and collaboration with partners and governments, said the venture marks a significant milestone in the relationship between The Gambia and Cape Verde.
