Ministry of Transport Refutes Claims Regarding Port Sale by Lawyer Darboe

The Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure has rebuked Lawyer Darboe’s claims regarding the sale of the Port, affirming that the Port remains fully owned by The Gambian Government. The Ministry insists that the negotiation process for the Port Concession was conducted transparently and was beneficial for the country. Key achievements during the current administration show significant growth and investment in port services.

The Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure has publicly refuted claims made by Lawyer Darboe regarding the sale of the Port. These allegations are described as misleading attempts to undermine a significant business opportunity that aims to revolutionize Port service delivery in The Gambia. The Ministry affirms that its negotiations were conducted with transparency and dedication to national interest, supported by an experienced International Transactional Advisory Firm.

Lawyer Darboe’s characterization of the current management at the Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) reflects a lack of understanding of port operations, as he implies that they are inferior compared to previous managers who operated under a dictatorship. It is important to note that the Port of Banjul has undergone remarkable growth since the early 1990s, driven by population increases and trade expansion.

Since the new Government’s tenure in 2016, the volume of operations at the Port has surged, leading to congestion that was previously unseen. The current GPA management has also made significant contributions to the Government, paying dividends that have escalated from 20 million in 2018 to 190 million by 2021. Key achievements under the current administration include:
– Severance of workers employed under outdated labor laws and establishment of a private Stevedoring Dock Labour Company.
– Implementing salary increases and bonuses after two decades.
– Initiating the 4th Banjul Port Development Project and signing a new performance contract with the Government.
– Record dividend payments to the Government.

Additionally, a concession agreement was established with Albayrak, allowing the GPA to maintain 100% ownership of fixed assets while enabling the investor to manage operations and absorb financing risk. The advantages of this agreement include:
– The Government holding 20% of equity in the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV).
– A USD 19 million investment to enhance operational efficiency and upgrade facilities.
– Guaranteeing a revenue share for the Government and protection for existing employees under Albayrak’s management.

The Sanyang Deep Seaport project, with no financial burden on the Government, is anticipated to generate increased traffic and operational efficiencies. Also, local companies will engage in establishing Inland Ports aimed at boosting logistics.

It is evident that the Port is to remain under the full ownership of The Gambian Government, with only operational responsibilities being delegated, thus keeping the harbour operations under government regulation. The public is therefore encouraged to disregard false narratives circulating from the UDP camp, which serve to mislead and instigate unwarranted concerns about the integrity of the Port Concession project.

In conclusion, the Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure has decisively countered unfounded claims made by Lawyer Darboe regarding the sale of the Port. The Port remains wholly owned by the Government of The Gambia, while significant operational enhancements are undertaken in partnership with experienced investors. This initiative is expected to yield economic benefits, improved services, and better infrastructure, underscoring the importance of public understanding and support for this strategic project.

Original Source: thepoint.gm