Gambia adds 21MW to grid, signs solar project
Energy minister apologises for recent power outages and announces upgrades to water infrastructure.
The Gambia's national electricity grid will receive an additional 21 megawatts (MW) from two newly installed generators, with another planned for the coming months. The Minister of Energy, Petroleum and Mines, Nani Juwara, announced these additions and the signing of a major solar energy project at the Mansa Kunda Ministerial Town Hall Meeting on Friday.
Juwara apologised for recent power disruptions, stating that the government has taken steps to prevent recurrence and is investing in water infrastructure, including the inauguration of the Brikama Water Storage Tank Project and ongoing construction of treatment plants in Sanyang and Sifoe. The National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) is also replacing ageing pipelines in Bundung.
Separately, Mrs Kani Jobe, head of the Petroleum Commission, confirmed that The Gambia remains at the oil exploration stage and has not begun commercial production or exports. She noted that a Petroleum Exploration, Development and Production Licence Agreement has been signed with Eni Gambia Ltd for offshore hydrocarbon exploration.
Why it mattersGambia's citizens are affected by recent power outages and improvements to electricity and water services, while the nation is at the oil exploration stage.