By Alieu Jallow
Dr Ismaila Badjie, a Gambian shipping and logistics specialist with twenty five years of experience working across Africa and Europe, now operating professionally from Nigeria, has challenged claims made by Jah Oil Company over the ongoing cement shortage.
His comments follow statements by Hamidou Jah, CEO of Jah Oil Company, during a telephone interview with Pa Nderry Mbye on Star FM. Jah argued that two of his company’s cement vessels remain stranded because the channel leading into the Port of Banjul is too shallow to receive them.
According to Jah, a cargo ship carrying 59,500 tons of cement arrived on 22 November 2025 but was unable to dock due to insufficient draft. A second vessel, loaded with 55,000 tons, arrived on 27 November 2025 and encountered the same problem. He maintained that the port’s channel depth is to blame and said Jah Oil has resorted to using a small shuttle vessel to transport cement from offshore to the Banjul wharf.
“The problem is not Jah Oil, The problem is the channel. We bring the cement, but for it to pass through, we can’t do anything about that.” he said.
However, shipping expert Dr Badjie disputes that explanation.
Speaking to The Fatu Network in a WhatsApp interview, he said the depth limitations of the Port of Banjul are well established and widely known in the maritime sector.
“The Gambia Port has an alongside draft of about 8.5 metres, and during the rainy season it can increase to 9 metres. This is nothing new. All ship owners, charterers and agents know this.” he said.
Dr Badjie noted that the vessel chartered by Jah Oil reportedly has a draft of 13.5 metres, which far exceeds what the Banjul channel can safely accommodate.
“For Jah Oil to bring a vessel with a 13.5 metre draft is simply asking for the impossible, The channel is what it is. The only immediate solution is to use a hollow barge, discharge part of the cement offshore, lighten the vessel to about 8.5 to 9 metres, and then sail her in.” he explained.
He warned that attempting to force a deep draft vessel through the channel would risk grounding the ship and blocking the passage entirely, an incident that could disrupt the country’s maritime trade.
“We all remember what happened when the Suez Canal was blocked, Whoever advised Jah to come with such an idea or excuse isn’t being honest or doing him any favour.” he added.
Dr Badjie encouraged Jah Oil to adopt more practical measures while the country works on long term improvements to its port infrastructure.
He advised the company to use barges to offload excess cargo offshore, charter vessels suitable for the port’s depth limitations, and consult experienced shipping professionals when planning future consignments.
By Alieu Jallow Dr Ismaila Badjie, a Gambian shipping and logistics specialist with twenty five years of experience working across Africa and Europe, now operating professionally from Nigeria, has challenged claims made by Jah Oil Company over the ongoing cement shortage. His comments follow statements by Hamidou Jah, CEO of Jah Oil Company, during a The Fatu Network
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