By: Yunus S. Saliu
In a colourful and well-attended ceremony, the President of the Republic of The Gambia, His Excellency Adama Barrow, on Saturday, 18th October 2025, officially laid the foundation stone for the six-kilometre Garawol–Kusuum Road Project at the heart of the Garawol community in the Kantora District, Upper River Region (URR).
President Barrow was accompanied by a high-powered delegation, including the Second Lady, Madam Sarjo Barrow, National Assembly Members, the Minister of Works, Transport and Infrastructure, Hon. Ebrima Sillah, Permanent Secretaries, Regional Governors, Councillors, members of the National People’s Party (NPP), and other notable dignitaries. Residents of Garawol and surrounding villages turned out in their numbers to grace the occasion.
Delivering his keynote address, President Barrow reaffirmed his government’s commitment to inclusive national development through modern infrastructure and connectivity across the country.
“My government continues to give top priority to infrastructure development and connectivity in all communities across The Gambia,” he stated. “This event marks another milestone for the people of Garawol and surrounding communities as we lay the foundation for a six-kilometre road from Garawol to Kusuum, a project that represents our collective vision for a brighter future.”
President Barrow disclosed that a survey for an additional 30 kilometres of road network within the Upper River Region has been completed. He said the Garawol–Kusuum road marks the first phase of a broader road project under his administration’s drive to deliver modern infrastructure across the country.
He explained that the project would improve livelihoods, strengthen communities, and expand economic opportunities by providing better access to schools, health facilities, and markets.
“This road is a timely fulfilment of my pledge to the people of Garawol and neighbouring villages,” he noted. “It will ensure they, too, enjoy their fair share of my government’s expanding infrastructure development.”
The President further described Garawol as one of the largest and most vibrant settlements in the eastern part of The Gambia, a growing hub for trade and entrepreneurship.
However, he lamented the poor condition of existing infrastructure, which continues to hinder socio-economic advancement in the area.
“This stretch will eventually form part of the government’s National Development Plan,” President Barrow emphasised. “All Gambians must now realise that infrastructure is the backbone of genuine economic transformation.”
He encouraged residents to take collective responsibility for the success of the project, urging transparency, accountability, and unity.
“As we lay this foundation stone today, let us also lay the foundation for stronger unity, greater resilience, and shared progress,” he urged.
Speaking on behalf of the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure (MOTWI), Acting Managing Director Mr. Sulayman Sumareh Janneh expressed profound gratitude to President Barrow for his leadership and commitment to national development.
“Your presence here is a powerful symbol of your dedication to improving infrastructure and uplifting communities across the country,” he said. “The Garawol–Kusuum Road Project is not just a ceremonial act; it is a declaration of our shared commitment to progress, connectivity, and opportunity.”
Mr. Janneh explained that the road will be built to modern standards with an all-weather bituminous surface dressing, ensuring durability and resilience against seasonal weather. It will feature a 10-metre-wide carriageway with adequate shoulders for both vehicles and pedestrians. Comprehensive hydraulic structures, including culverts, side drains, and erosion control measures, will be incorporated to manage stormwater and protect the road’s integrity.
He assured that the NRA will ensure adherence to both national standards and international best practices. He also revealed that feasibility studies are being conducted for the Kumbija–Baniko Road for future development.
Several dignitaries, including the Alkalo of Garawol, Chiefs, the Governor of URR, and Honourable Mai Fatty, delivered goodwill messages at the ceremony, all commending the President’s commitment to rural transformation and inclusive development.
The post President Barrow Lays Foundation Stone for Garawol–Kusuum Road Project appeared first on .
By: Yunus S. Saliu In a colourful and well-attended ceremony, the President of the Republic of The Gambia, His Excellency…
The post President Barrow Lays Foundation Stone for Garawol–Kusuum Road Project appeared first on .
