By Makutu Manneh
President Adama Barrow has approved the construction of a new road network linking Faraba with neighboring communities in Kombo East, according to a statement issued Wednesday by State House.
The announcement followed a meeting between the president and a delegation from Faraba, whose members thanked him for development projects in the area and appealed for continued government investment.
State House said the delegation pointed to several projects and programs, including the University of The Gambia’s main campus in Faraba, rural electrification, the distribution of tractors and fertilizer, and scholarships for students from the community.
The new road network would complement the “Narang” road already under construction and is expected to improve access to markets for women farmers, make it easier for children to reach schools and open up the Faraba rice fields for further development, according to the statement.
Mr. Barrow told the delegation that infrastructure projects undertaken across the country since he took office in 2017 demonstrated his commitment to improving the lives and livelihoods of Gambians.
He also promised further development beyond 2026 and called for peace as the country approaches an election year.
The meeting came as the government faces mounting public concern over persistent electricity shortages. Addressing the power situation, Mr. Barrow pointed to challenges affecting the broader regional electricity network.
“On the current power supply situation, the President explained the regional context of the West African Power Pool through which neighbouring countries are facing similar challenges that require patience and dedicated collaboration,” State House said.
The statement did not provide further details about the regional challenges or specify how they have contributed to the recent electricity disruptions in The Gambia.
The remarks come amid heightened scrutiny of the country’s electricity supply following widespread outages and public protests over the disruptions.
Among those who spoke during the meeting were the chief of Kombo East, Babukarr Sanyang, as well as Essa Dampha, Pa Kalipha Sanyang, Pa Jung Conteh, Sambou Daffeh, Kemo Jatta and Mariama Jarju.
According to State House, members of the delegation pledged their support to Mr. Barrow and said they were honored that the president had met with them while on his annual leave.
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