By Arret Jatta
President Adama Barrow has described ongoing road projects in the Central River Region as key to unlocking the region’s economic potential as he lays foundation for yet another road.
Speaking at Njau on Monday the president said the projects would improve access to markets, schools, healthcare and other services while supporting farmers across the region.
Earlier in the day, Barrow laid the foundation stone for a 52-kilometre road project in Ngayen Sanjal, aimed at improving connectivity in the Sanjal district.
He also inaugurated the 12-kilometre Njau Loop project, which has now been completed and opened to the public.
According to Barrow, the projects reflect his government’s focus on development and improved service delivery across the country.
He said the Ngayen Sanjal road should not be viewed simply as physical infrastructure, but as a lifeline for communities.
“It will connect farmers to markets, children to school and families to healthcare and other services,” Barrow said.
He added that improved roads would unlock the agricultural potential of Sanjal and surrounding communities. The president described the Central River Region as the country’s food basket, saying its prosperity would have a direct impact on the wider Gambian economy.
He said investment in roads would empower farmers, strengthen food security, improve food distribution, create jobs and attract agribusiness and other industries to the region.
President Barrow also urged the National Roads Authority and contractors to maintain the standards demonstrated during the Njau Loop project.
He thanked communities in Ngayen Sanjal, Njau and surrounding areas for their patience and cooperation during construction.
Turning to young people, Barrow urged them to take advantage of opportunities created by the new infrastructure.
“New roads open new doors, so make the most of every door that comes your way to forge a better future for ourselves,” he said.
He also called on residents to protect the roads from abuse and vandalism, stressing that maintaining the infrastructure is a shared responsibility.
The president urged Gambians to work together in peace and unity as the country pursues development.