Honourable Speaker of the National Assembly, Members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps, Honourable Cabinet Ministers, Honourable National Assembly Members, Governor of the North Bank Region, Heads of Public and Private Institutions, Chief of Upper Nuimi District, Alkalolou of the Surrounding Villages, Distinguished Guests, Representatives of the Media Houses, Ladies and Gentlemen, We are here today to celebrate another major event on our national development programme, which is the successful completion of the historic Hakalang Road Project and its connecting roads.

This grand achievement adds to the shining examples of my government’s unwavering commitment to developing and transforming our national infrastructure for inclusive growth and improved quality life styles for every Gambian. For decades on end, the residents of the North Bank Region (NBR), particularly those in Upper Nuimi and nearby districts, had to endure the brutal hardship of isolation and limited access to important social services due to bad roads. Such immense challenges forced our farmers to struggle extremely hard to transport their produce, while traders had to face huge obstacles before reaching the business centres of their choice. Access to schools, markets, healthcare facilities, and other services remained a nightmare. Considering the critical size of the Gambian population in this region, my government deemed it morally and economically necessary to fund this entire road project.

Originally contracted to cover eighty-four kilometres, seven hundred metres (84.7 km), the road links more than thirty (30) communities in various parts of the Nuimi and Jokadou districts. In view of its importance, this infrastructure is symbolically more than a road. It signifies progress, unity, and inclusive development, brought about by a government of the people and for the people. Clearly, it equally demonstrates our resolve to develop every corner of the country. As we officially inaugurate this new road, we are closing the age-old chapter of limited movement and access to public facilities and services. On the other hand, we are officially opening a new chapter of easy movement and connection, with boundless prospects and fitting dignity for the people of the area.

Furthermore, the successful completion of this road project signals the improvement and promotion of economic opportunities along the corridor, especially inter-state trade. In fact, the road is already boosting tourism, particularly in such historical and significant sites as Juffureh and Kunta Kinteh Island. Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, What eluded the colonial and post-independent governments in this part of the country is now a dream come true.

During the 2016 Presidential Election campaign, I solemnly promised that, when elected, fixing the infrastructure deficit in the North Bank Region would be my priority. Here we are today! For the first time in the history of this region, my government has not only built the Hakalang Roads network but has also provided electricity to numerous communities in the region.

We have similarly built modern schools and expanded healthcare facilities on the North Bank. We made promises and have fulfilled each of them. I express my appreciation to CSE Construction Company and the consultants, PACE/GAMECS JV, for the excellent execution of the project.

Both institutions played a key role in ensuring the successful completion of this vital infrastructure that will, without doubt, benefit many generations. In addition, I acknowledge the immense support from the Ministry of Finance for mobilising the funds and commend the Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure and their dedicated staff and teams for their tireless efforts to make this long-awaited project a reality. Their leadership and coordination roles have contributed immensely to the success of the project. To you, the residents of Hakalang, I convey our deepest appreciation. Your cooperation, resilience, and patience over the years have not gone in vain. You waited, hoped, and remained committed to the greater good that lay ahead.

This road is, therefore, not just for you; it is also because of you that it is here. We deeply appreciate the remarkable strength, unity, and patriotism you displayed in the face of long operational delays and difficult conditions. No wonder you have happily converged here as proud beneficiaries of a remarkable project that you have long deserved. Let us now work together to preserve and maintain this national asset. Cherish it as a mark of honour and an indication of what The Gambia Government and citizens can achieve when we unite and act together. In declaring the Hakalang Road officially open to the public, I pray that it leads to unlimited opportunities and a brighter future for The Gambia and our neighbouring countries. May God continue to bless us all.