Gov’t unveils new power projects, says Gambia still at oil exploration stage
The government of The Gambia has announced new measures to strengthen electricity and water services, including the addition of 21 megawatts (MW) to the national grid, plans for an additional generator and the signing of a major solar energy project.
Speaking at the Mansa Kunda Ministerial Town Hall Meeting at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre on Friday, the Minister of Energy, Petroleum and Mines, Nani Juwara, said two newly installed generators would add a combined 21MW to the country’s electricity generation capacity.
He disclosed that another generator is expected in the coming months as part of efforts to improve electricity supply and reduce outages.
The minister also announced the signing of a major solar energy project intended to expand renewable energy generation and enhance the reliability of power supply.
Apologising for recent power disruptions, Juwara said government had taken steps to prevent a recurrences.
“We sincerely apologise for the few days of outages that prompted some discontent among the populace. Efforts are already underway to ensure that a repeat of such incidents does not happen in this country again.”
On water supply, the minister said government is investing in key infrastructure projects to address shortages in several communities.
He noted that President Adama Barrow recently inaugurated the Brikama Water Storage Tank Project, while water treatment plants under construction in Sanyang and Sifoe are expected to improve access to potable water.
He added that the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) is upgrading its transmission and distribution network, including the replacement of ageing pipelines in Bundung.
The minister further disclosed that sand mining activities have been shifted from coastal beaches to offshore dredging operations, which he described as a more environmentally sustainable approach.
Meanwhile, Mrs Kani Jobe, head of the Petroleum Commission, clarified that The Gambia has not started commercial oil production or exports and remains at the exploration stage.
She disclosed that the government has signed a Petroleum Exploration, Development and Production Licence Agreement with Eni Gambia Ltd to explore the country’s offshore hydrocarbon potential.
Source: The Point
