The Edward Francis Small Center for Rights and Justice (EFSCFRJ), a prominent civil society organization in The Gambia, has raised strong objections to the Turkish company Albayrak’s takeover of the Banjul Port, describing the deal as “illegal” and detrimental to the country’s social and economic interests.
EFSCFRJ argues that the concession agreement signed between the Gambian government and Albayrak violates national laws and fails to serve the best interests of the Gambian people. The organization claims that the deal provides significant economic benefits to the foreign company at the expense of the local workforce, national revenue, and the long-term development of the port.
The deal, which grants Albayrak control over key operations at the Banjul Port, has sparked widespread criticism from various sectors of society. Critics argue that the agreement would lead to job losses for local workers, while also limiting the Gambian government’s control over one of the country’s most vital economic assets.
EFSCFRJ has called on President Adama Barrow and members of the National Assembly to take immediate action to halt the concession agreement. The group urges lawmakers to review the terms of the deal and ensure that it aligns with the country’s legal framework and national development goals.
In a statement, the organization expressed concern that the concession would lead to a long-term loss of control over the country’s most crucial maritime infrastructure, leaving The Gambia vulnerable to foreign exploitation. The port handles a large portion of the nation’s imports and exports, and EFSCFRJ contends that the agreement with Albayrak could undermine the ability of Gambians to benefit from their own resources.
The Gambia’s government has yet to comment publicly on EFSCFRJ’s objections, but the controversy surrounding the port concession deal has raised important questions about the transparency of foreign investments and their impact on local communities. The issue is likely to remain a significant point of debate as the country’s political leaders and civil society work to address the concerns raised by organizations like EFSCFRJ.
As the situation unfolds, calls for greater scrutiny of such deals and a reassessment of the terms governing foreign investments in key national sectors are expected to intensify.
