Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mr. Gaye TheVoice
Published on 2024-04-17 09:40:02
The Gambia Maritime Administration (GMA) recently made a significant contribution to the safety measures at the Banjul-Barra crossing terminals by donating one thousand life-saving jackets to the Gambia Navy. The gesture, aimed at addressing the breakdown of the ferries and the subsequent increase in travelers crossing via local boats, was met with gratitude and appreciation from both the Navy and the local communities.
The handing over ceremony took place at the Naval Command Base in Banjul, where Deputy Chief of Defense Staff, Ousman Gomez, expressed the significance of the donation. He emphasized that the provision of life jackets went beyond material goods; it was a symbol of care and concern for the naval forces who work tirelessly to safeguard the coastal waters. Gomez highlighted the enduring partnership between the Gambia Maritime Agency and the Gambia Navy, applauding the agency for their consistent support and tangible solutions to challenges faced by the naval forces.
Captain Fatou Jaiteh of the Gambia Navy also spoke highly of the donation, emphasizing its benefits for individuals and passenger boat owners. With the ferries out of operation, the importance of promoting water safety and ensuring compliance with wearing life jackets became even more critical. She praised the GMA for their contribution to enhancing the Navy’s efforts in enforcing safety measures and emergency preparedness.
Deputy Director General of Gambia Maritime Administration, Mr. Ousman Touray, shed light on the strict enforcement of wearing life jackets as a condition for boarding canoes at the crossing points. He also outlined additional safety measures, such as load limits and operating times for canoes, to ensure the safety of citizens during times of increased demand and limited transportation options.
Touray announced the donation of five hundred life jackets to canoe operators at critical points along The River Gambia in the upcountry, in addition to the one thousand jackets donated for passengers at the Banjul-Barra crossing terminals. He emphasized the commitment of the administration to the well-being of the people and their collaboration with the Gambia Navy in safeguarding every journey undertaken by canoe transportation across the mouth of The River Gambia.
The donation of life jackets by the GMA was not just a gesture of goodwill, but a concrete step towards enhancing safety measures and promoting water safety in The Gambia. The partnership between the Gambia Maritime Agency and the Gambia Navy stands as a shining example of collaboration and solidarity in ensuring the safety and well-being of the nation’s citizens. Through their joint efforts, they aim to create a safer and more secure environment for all those traveling through the waterways of The Gambia.
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