By Makutu Manneh
President Adama Barrow inaugurated the construction of 34.9 kilometers of feeder roads on Thursday, April 2, aiming to improve access to markets and social services for communities in Kombo South and Foni.
The Ministry of Agriculture said the project, designated as Lot 4, has been awarded to contractor Solo Darbo, with consultancy oversight provided by the Pace and Ceeteq Joint Venture.
Villages set to benefit include Lamin Daranka, where the road will connect John Pickering School to surrounding gardens and rice fields (1.5 km); Gunjur to Berending (6.1 km); Kanpanti/Kapa to Ballen (4.3 km); Kasamai to Bajagarr (6 km); Sibanor to Gifanga (4.7 km); Bulajorr to Katacorr (6.3 km); Tampoto to Jakoi Sibrik (9 km); and Somita/Batendin to Jakoi Paima.
The project is financed by the World Bank through the Gambia Inclusive and Resilient Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (GIRAV), under the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Food Security.
Speaking at the foundation stone ceremony, President Barrow emphasized the importance of integrating Foni fully into national development. “If my agenda in Foni were to devalue this region, I would not be bringing projects to your communities,” he said. He highlighted the provision of electricity, water, roads, and health facilities in Foni as evidence of progress not seen in the area since independence.
President Barrow also noted that the new roads would particularly benefit farmers, facilitating easier transport of agricultural produce to local markets and enhancing connectivity for rural communities.
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