President Adama Barrow has promised new development projects for Bakau as he continued his nationwide tour, telling residents he is committed to improving conditions in one of the country’s most politically significant communities.
Addressing a large crowd in Bakau, the President recognised the town’s history as both a major settlement and a traditional opposition base. He said this made his engagement with the community especially important.
A major part of his remarks focused on infrastructure. Barrow said that once the Banjul road rehabilitation project is finished, his government will use it as a model for similar work across the Kanifing Municipality. He assured residents that better internal roads in Bakau are part of his plan.
The President also responded to a request from fishermen in the town. He said the government will provide two boats to help young people working in the sector and support the local fishing economy.
Barrow highlighted ongoing government support to women and young entrepreneurs in Bakau. According to him, more than D3 million has already been disbursed to women through the Women Enterprise Fund. He also pledged D700,000 each to seven young people so they can start their own businesses.
“All of this is meant to support the people of Bakau,” he said.
Barrow added that the First Lady is currently sponsoring the construction of a new mosque in the town. He said he intends to attend its inauguration.
Calling for more accountability at the local level, the President urged residents to demand their rights and development from the Kanifing Municipal Council, noting that taxpayers deserve results from their municipality.
He ended his address by inviting the crowd to observe a minute of silence for the late Alhagie Dembo “By-Force” Bojang, a veteran politician and prominent son of Bakau. Barrow spoke warmly of Bojang’s role in the political change that led to the 2016 election, saying his ties to the late figure strengthen his personal commitment to the town.
“For the sake of the late Mr Dembo By-Force, I will develop Bakau,” he told the gathering.
Barrow assured residents that any delays or gaps in development under previous governments will be corrected under his administration.
