The Ministry of Works has refuted claims by Lawyer Darboe regarding the selling of the Port of Banjul, asserting that the port remains government-owned. The Ministry outlined the positive impact of the concession agreement with Albayrak, which allows for significant investment and operational enhancements without relinquishing ownership of the port. Key achievements and benefits of the partnership are highlighted, clarifying the misinformation surrounding the deal.
The Ministry of Works has publicly refuted allegations made by Lawyer Darboe regarding the sale of the Port of Banjul, asserting that his claims are unfounded and intended to discredit a transformative business opportunity in The Gambia. The Ministry, along with its partners, based their negotiations on good faith and a commitment to national interest. An International Transactional Advisory Firm with significant experience in similar projects supported the process.
Lawyer Darboe’s remarks exhibit a misunderstanding of port operations, as he criticized the current management of the Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) while favorably comparing them to past managers, some of whom acted under oppressive regimes. It is essential to recognize that the Port of Banjul saw significant growth beginning in 1992, following a period when its capacity and utilization were minimal.
Since the new Government assumed office in 2016, the volume of port activity increased tremendously, leading to congestion in Banjul. During this time, the current GPA management has delivered record dividend payments to the Government, starting with 20 million in 2018 and escalating to 190 million by 2021. Notable achievements during this administration include launching the fourth Banjul Port Development Project and establishing a private Stevedoring Dock Labour Company to enhance operational efficiency.
The recent concession agreement with Albayrak allows the Government to retain ownership of fixed assets while the investor manages operations, assuming all financial risks. The Government will hold a 20% equity stake, and the investor is mandated to invest $19 million in infrastructure improvements over six years, alongside securing a percentage of gross revenues for the Government.
Overall, key benefits of the agreement include enhanced efficiency through new equipment and infrastructure upgrades, adherence to local employment terms, and planned developments in Sanyang Deep Seaport. It is evident that the Port of Banjul remains the property of the Gambian Government, with only management operations concessioned. The public is urged to disregard misinformation propagated by the UDP as unfounded and aimed at undermining the success of the Port Concession Project.
In summary, the Ministry of Works successfully countered Lawyer Darboe’s claims regarding the Port of Banjul, emphasizing that the port remains under Government ownership. The partnership with Albayrak represents an opportunity for growth and operational efficiency, without divesting the Government of its assets. Furthermore, substantial investments and infrastructural enhancements are anticipated, reinforcing the commitment to enhance port services in The Gambia.
Original Source: thepoint.gm
