President Adama Barrow has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to equitable national development, declaring that infrastructure development must reach every region, district and village in The Gambia.
The President made the remarks on Thursday while inaugurating the Numuyel–Demba Kunda–Manneh Kunda Road, describing the project as a significant milestone in improving rural connectivity, expanding economic opportunities and enhancing access to essential services.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, President Barrow said the completion of the road represented the fulfilment of a government promise and demonstrated that development must be measured by tangible results rather than promises and pronouncements.
He noted that the road would improve the movement of people, agricultural produce, goods and services, while strengthening connections between rural communities and the national road network.
“For many years, the people of Numuyel, Demba Kunda, Manneh Kunda, and the neighbouring villages have struggled with poor road access, especially during the rainy season,” the President said.
He added that the new road would help address these challenges by making transportation safer, easier and more reliable.
According to President Barrow, the project is expected to reduce travel time, improve access to schools, healthcare facilities and markets, and create greater economic opportunities for farmers, businesses and local entrepreneurs.
The President emphasised that infrastructure remains a fundamental pillar of national development, noting that roads connect communities to essential services, markets and economic opportunities.
He described the Numuyel–Demba Kunda–Manneh Kunda corridor as an important component of the country’s rural road network, linking the beneficiary communities and neighbouring settlements to the wider national transport system.
President Barrow reiterated his administration’s determination to ensure that development benefits all Gambians, regardless of their geographical location.
“My government will remain permanently committed to ensuring that development reaches every region, every district, and every village of the country,” he said.
He stressed that every Gambian deserves access to quality infrastructure and public services, adding that national progress must be shared equitably rather than concentrated in one part of the country.
The President also expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure, the National Roads Authority, engineers, consultants, contractors, workers and other partners who contributed to the successful completion of the project.
However, he cautioned that the long-term benefits of the road would depend on proper maintenance and responsible use by the communities and road users.
President Barrow urged residents along the corridor to protect the road infrastructure, preserve road reserves and drainage facilities, and avoid activities that could damage the newly completed road.
He also called on motorists to observe traffic regulations, exercise caution and respect the safety of other road users.
“The long-term success of our investment also depends on the community,” he said, urging residents to work with the relevant authorities to ensure that the road remains in good condition for years to come.
Looking ahead, President Barrow said the government’s objective was not simply to construct roads but to establish a reliable and sustainable road network capable of supporting economic growth, improving access to essential services and strengthening agriculture and trade.
He expressed optimism that the improved connectivity would create new opportunities for farmers, young people and businesses, while contributing to better livelihoods for residents of the beneficiary communities.
Describing the road as an investment in the future, the President urged the people of Numuyel, Demba Kunda, Manneh Kunda and neighbouring settlements to take ownership of the infrastructure and use it responsibly.
President Barrow subsequently declared the Numuyel–Demba Kunda–Manneh Kunda Road officially inaugurated and open for public use on behalf of the Government and people of The Gambia.
He expressed hope that the project would bring greater prosperity, improve livelihoods and strengthen connections among communities along the corridor.
