By Seedy Jobe
The Gambia Ferry Services (GFS) has announced a series of measures aimed at managing increased passenger traffic and ensuring safety along the Banjul–Barra route ahead of the Tobaski festivities.
Speaking on QTV’s This Morning programme on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, GFS Public Relations Officer Babucarr Sonko stated that the institution has put in place comprehensive preparations to accommodate the seasonal surge in travelers.
“As part of our operations, we have very solid preparations to ensure the safety and smooth travel of our customers. As we all know, festive periods come with a significant influx of passengers, and all necessary measures are currently in place,” Sonko said.
He emphasized that passenger safety remains the authority’s top priority. “In situations like this, what matters most is ensuring that everyone travels safely and reaches their destination without incident,” he added.
To address the recurring issue of congestion and long queues, GFS has restructured its operations. Acting Director of Operations Sheriff Saidy disclosed that two ferries—the Kanilai Ferry and the newly introduced Barra Ferry—are currently in service on the route.
He further revealed that the Kunta Kinteh Ferry is temporarily out of operation but is undergoing urgent repairs. “All efforts are being put in place to ensure that in a couple of days time, we will also have the Kunta Kinteh Ferry in operation. So that will bring the total fleet to three,” he said.
According to him, the deployment of a third ferry is expected to significantly reduce congestion. “Definitely if we have three ferries plying the Banjul and Barra route, definitely that congestion that used to be a tradition would be a thing of the past,” he noted, adding that technical teams are working around the clock to expedite repairs.
As part of additional measures for the Tobaski period, GFS will collaborate with state security personnel to support crowd control and ensure orderly boarding processes amid high passenger volumes.
The ferry service is also prioritizing the transportation of livestock, given their sensitivity to prolonged exposure to heat. “We give special consideration to those transporting animals, as they cannot remain under the sun for extended periods. We ensure they are ferried across promptly,” Saidy explained.
In a move to ease the financial burden on traders, GFS has introduced a 50 percent discount on ferry charges for animals intended for Tobaski sacrifices. The discount applies to rams, cows, camels, and other livestock commonly used during the festival.
Saidy indicated that the decision followed consultations with livestock traders. “One of the key factors contributing to the high cost of livestock is transportation, particularly ferry charges. By offering a 50 percent reduction, we hope this will help lower costs and ultimately reflect in market prices,” he said.
GFS officials noted that the combined measures—enhanced ferry capacity, increased security presence, priority boarding for livestock, and discounted fares—are designed to ensure smoother, safer, and more efficient travel during the Tobaski season.
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