Building Roads and Bridges
Connecting Gambia with Roads & Bridges
No community will be isolated due to poor roads, impassable terrain, or outdated infrastructure
OUR MISSION
Given the almost medieval status of the country’s road infrastructure, the NBP plans to construct, modernize and expand the road and bridge infrastructure across The Gambia. This standard network of roads and bridges will connect people, goods and services while transforming the nation’s economic and social landscape at the same time.
The initiative will be driven by the creation of a specialized Military Engineering division, trained and equipped to carry out large-scale road and bridge construction projects across the country.
The NBP envisions a Gambia where no community is isolated due to poor road conditions, impassable terrain, or outdated infrastructure. Modern roads and durable bridges are not just transportation tools but they are as well critical to economic growth and access to healthcare, education, food, and security.
OUR PLAN
Key Objectives
- The NBP will construct newly paved roads linking every major town, village, and administrative district across The Gambia.
- The few existing roads will be redesigned and modernized to improve durability, width, and accessibility in all weather conditions.
- The government will build and replace bridges over rivers, wetlands, and flood-prone areas to ensure year-round transportation.
- A permanent military engineering division will be established and tasked with national infrastructure development and emergency response duties.
- The NBP will integrate new road systems into broader urban development plans that support housing, education, healthcare and economic zones.
- Sustainable construction methods will be used, including sourcing materials locally and applying climate-resilient road design practices.
- The government will establish a Military Engineering Division (MED) under the Gambia Armed Forces, trained in road and bridge construction, civil engineering, and equipment operation.
- Technical partnerships will also be developed with international military and civilian engineering institutions to assist in training and equipment procurement.
Construction and Deployment
- Initial projects will focus on high-impact corridors, including improvements to the Trans-Gambia Highway and roads connecting Banjul, Brikama, Basse, Soma, Farafenni and other regional capitals.
- Roads leading to agricultural centers, schools, hospitals, and border towns will be developed to support trade and essential services.
- Durable bridges will be constructed using steel-reinforced concrete, with modular designs for rapid deployment in remote or vulnerable areas.
- Urban road networks will include drainage systems, street lighting, pedestrian walkways, and signage for improved safety and accessibility.
Maintenance and Long-Term Sustainability
- Local councils and MED teams will be trained in preventive maintenance and basic repair protocols.
- The NBP will establish a Public Infrastructure Fund to support long-term road and bridge maintenance, funded through tolls, fuel levies, and development grants.
- A “Keep the Roads Alive” initiative will be launched to engage youth in road upkeep, environmental care and traffic safety education.
ECONOMIC IMPACT
- The infrastructure plan will create thousands of jobs in construction, engineering, logistics, and maintenance across all regions of The Gambia.
- National productivity will increase through reduced travel time, lower transportation costs, and improved market access for farmers and traders.
- The plan will attract local and foreign investors by improving transport corridors and enhancing regional connectivity.
- Improved roads will strengthen tourism by making cultural and natural sites more accessible to both domestic and international visitors.
- Emergency services, including ambulances, fire brigades, and police patrols, will be able to respond faster and more effectively.
To achieve this bold vision, a comprehensive national transport master plan will be developed and aligned with global infrastructure goals.
Feasibility studies will be initiated for future expressways, toll roads and smart traffic systems in densely populated areas.
IMPORTANCE
By implementing this plan, The Gambia will undergo a national transformation that encourages investment, improves inter-regional trade and boosts rural development. By building a solid road infrastructure, this initiative will stand as a foundation for a modern and forward-moving Gambia.