New state-of-the-art ferry to arrive in Gambia by mid-March – GPA Board Chair

A new state-of-the-art ferry is expected to arrive in The Gambia by mid-March 2026, according to Gambia Ports Authority Board Chair Kebba Njie.
The new ferry will enhance transportation and promote trade in the region, Mr Njie said, adding that it is “the GPA’s efforts aim to improve” maritime infrastructure and services.

The GPA board chair Njie and the Minister for Transport, Works and Infrastructure, Ebrima Sillah, praised President Barrow’s efforts in securing the new Hybrid Green Ferry. Both expressed gratitude to the President for his support.

Mr Njie said the ferry is part of the Banjul Port 4th Expansion Project, funded by the African Development Bank, and it is expected to enhance transportation and trade between Banjul and Barra. 

The features of the new ferry include 88m length, 17m width, 1000 passenger capacity, and space for 80 vehicles.

He further stated that the ferry that was built by DAMEN Shipyards in The Netherlands, one of two new ferries for The Gambia, expected for delivery to replace ageing fleet, and enhance Banjul-Barra transport.

Also speaking to The Point, GPA Managing Director, Ousman Jobarteh, explained that construction of the new ferry is complete, it is now undergoing sea trials in Holland, and is expected to arrive in The Gambia by mid-March 2026. 

“The new green ferry, Barra, is complete and undergoing sea trials in Holland. After trials, it’ll be transported to Banjul on a ship-lift vessel, arriving mid-March,” he stated.

MD Jobarteh said the new ferry cost around 13 million Euros, clarifying that the project is part of the Banjul Port 4th Expansion Project, funded by the African Development Bank. 

He reiterated that the ferry will enhance transportation between Banjul and Barra, reducing carbon emissions and supporting The Gambia’s Green Recovery-Focused National Development Plan.

Source: The Point