Gambian leader confirms construction of new rail line

22 April 2012

The Gambian government has announced that construction on the country's first-ever rail system will begin in January 2013, the Daily Observer has reported.

The news has been confirmed by Dr Yahya Jammeh, who was speaking at the National Assembly in Banjul.

He observed that such infrastructure projects are critical to the future of the Gambian economy, which should be boosted by transport improvements.

"I want to inform this gathering that before the end of next [month] there will be a comprehensive feasibility study consultancy agreement with a renowned United States company that is well known worldwide in building high class rail," he is quoted as saying.

"So before the end of the year, the feasibilities studies would have been completed and by the grace of the Almighty Allah, construction work for the Phase One of the rail system would commence latest January 2013."

Dr Jammeh had previously promised the Gambian people that the country would one day have a rail network fit for the 21st century.