President Barrow inaugurates 87KM Kiang road — first since 1965

President Adama Barrow on Saturday 25 April inaugurated the first road constructed in Kiang West since The Gambia gained independence in 1965.
For a community that has endured decades of neglect, often attributed to its political stance during the former regime, the opening of this road marks a turning point.

As the nation’s third president since independence, Barrow’s leadership has brought Kiang into the fold of national development.
For the first time, residents of the area can enjoy a modern road network comparable to other regions of the country.
The 87-kilometre road, fully funded by the Gambian government, stretches from Sankandi deep into Kiang West, connecting numerous communities.
Along the highway, hundreds of residents lined the route, waving as the presidential convoy entered Jifarong village, where the inauguration ceremony was held.

For many, the moment felt surreal. “We never thought we would witness such development in our lifetime,” one resident remarked.

Until now, travelling to Banjul was a nightmare. Vehicles often left early in the morning, and it could take another day before others followed.
With the new road, journeys that once took days can now be completed in hours.

National Roads Authority officials assured that the road has been built to last decades. The project is expected to transform lives, connecting communities, improving access to healthcare, boosting agriculture, and opening up hard-to-reach areas.