The Gambian government has begun inaugurating new electricity infrastructure across five locations, part of the Economic Community of West African States Regional Electricity Access Project (ECOWAS-REAP). The rollout, which started on February 7, 2026, in Njongon, will continue until February 15, bringing power to rural communities across the country.
President Adama Barrow described the project as a landmark achievement, noting it has increased The Gambia’s electrification rate from 73% to 90%, connecting 52 000 new households to the national grid.
ECOWAS-REAP, covering The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau and Mali, is funded by the World Bank and co-ordinated regionally by the ECOWAS Directorate of Energy and Mines. In The Gambia, it spans 292 communities and includes 1 500 km of new medium and low-voltage lines.
Dr Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, said the project represents a new era for communities, boosting development, stability, and livelihoods. World Bank representative Matarr Touray added that the initiative not only delivers infrastructure but also creates jobs and restores hope in historically underserved areas.
Local leaders welcomed the project, highlighting benefits such as extended study hours for students, increased economic activity, and opportunities for innovation.
ECOWAS and its partners remain committed to supporting The Gambia and the wider region in achieving universal electricity access by 2030.
–ChannelAfrica/ECOWAS–
