The Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure has rejected Lawyer Darboe’s allegations regarding the sale of Port assets, asserting that his claims are false and misleading. The Ministry highlights significant developments under the current management and the Port’s continued government ownership, emphasizing a commitment to enhancing infrastructure and service delivery through responsible partnership and investment.
The Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure has dismissed allegations made by Lawyer Darboe regarding the sale of the Port of Banjul. The Ministry maintains that his statements are not only false but are also intended to mislead the public and undermine a transformative business initiative designed for the Port’s service enhancement in The Gambia.
Contrary to Lawyer Darboe’s assertions, the negotiations for the Port Concession were conducted with integrity and patriotism, supported by an experienced International Transaction Advisory Firm. This firm has successfully handled similar mega projects across Europe and Africa, ensuring that the best interests of the country were prioritized throughout the negotiation process.
Lawyer Darboe has been criticized for disparaging the current management of the Gambia Ports Authority, claiming they are inferior to previous leaders. This criticism overlooks the fact that the Port of Banjul was considerably smaller in the late 1990s, experiencing significant expansion only after 1992. The growth trajectory of the Port has accelerated following the establishment of a new government in 2016, resulting in unprecedented congestion due to an increase in volume.
The current management of the Gambia Ports Authority has recorded a remarkable payment of dividends to the government, beginning with 20 million in 2018 and peaking at 190 million by 2021. Achievements within this administration include the establishment of a private Stevedoring Dock Labour Company, salary increments and bonuses after a two-decade hiatus, and the initiation of significant development projects.
Key accomplishments attributed to the new government encompass numerous initiatives and agreements. These include a new performance contract, substantial equity retention in the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), and the fact that while private investment occurs, the Government retains ownership of all fixed assets.
Additionally, the concession agreement with Albayrak, which requires no government financing, is structured to benefit both the Gambia and the investor by improving infrastructure without transferring ownership. The Government will maintain a significant share in the SPV and gain from the economic benefits generated by the agreement.
The Sanyang Deep Seaport project will be financed entirely by the investor, with forecasts indicating increased traffic and reduced operational costs. This initiative aims to enhance the port infrastructure while promoting the involvement of local companies in newly established logistics platforms.
The Ministry emphasizes that the Port remains under complete government ownership while management and operational services are concessioned. It urges the public to disregard misleading information circulated by opposition parties, framing such rhetoric as an attempt to discredit legitimate governmental efforts and engage in unfounded social media disputes.
In summary, the Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure has firmly refuted Lawyer Darboe’s claims regarding the sale of the Port of Banjul. The present government is committed to improving Port services while retaining full ownership of all government assets. Engagement in the Port concession is intended to benefit The Gambia while discrediting misinformation perpetuated by opposition factions. The Ministry calls for public support and understanding of the ongoing developments at the Port.
Original Source: thepoint.gm
