The language of the contemporary world, following the industrial revolution, is energy.

Energy is to industrialization and economic growth as life is to the living being. Thankfully, this is a philosophy wholeheartedly appreciated by the AFPRC/APRC government, cognizant of the fact that no meaningful development is possible in the absence of a vibrant energy sector. And like agriculture, the prominence President Jammeh attached to this sector is manifested by the special interest he has constantly directed to it. The result of what has become a revolution is being felt right across the entire length and breadth of the nation. It has not been an easy task though. But courage, determination and resilience have been crucial in the entire tale.

Before the advent of the 1994 revolution, the then Gambia Utilities Company (GUC) was driving on a bumpy road. The company was then only able to provide electricity to most of its customers on an average 12-hour basis, daily, due to the low generating capacity at the Kotu Power Station. However, after a careful and thorough study of the situation, President Jammeh transferred the Energy portfolio from the Department of State for Trade to his office, under his direct supervision.

At that juncture, a revolution had begun, and there was not going to be any compromise. Several new generators were subsequently brought into the country between 2000 and 2001, and the President himself took delivery of the generators at the Banjul Seaport, a clear expression of his desire to see the sector on a stronger footing. As expected, the country’s electricity output began to surge. But more was in store as the president showed no sign of relenting.

A partnership between government and an independent power producing firm, Global Electrical Group (GEG), was reached, leading to the construction of a new power plant situated in Brikama, an edifice that was completed barely two years after construction commenced. GEG installed brand new generators at the site.

Accordingly, this electrical firm produces electricity and sells it to NAWEC for onward distribution to its customers.  That initiative soon bore fruit, as it enabled the country’s water and electricity company to increase its power output, expanding its coverage to new areas such as Brufut, Sukuta, Sanyang, Tanji, Tujereng and Jambanjelly, amongst others.

In 2003, the government of The Gambia embarked on a Rural Electrification Project (REP).  This immense project today enables 46 towns and villages in rural Gambia to benefit from regular electricity supply, with the construction of new power stations in Barra-Essau, Kerewan, Farafenni, Kaur, Bansang and Basse. This project rejuvenated the prospect of stamping out the scourge of rural-urban migration, re-introducing life in rural towns and major villages that were literally on the verge of extinction due to the absence of meaningful economic activities, resulting in the migration of the able-bodied men and women to the urban areas, in search of such services.

Today, however, most rural settlements are gradually becoming business centers due to the proliferation of economic activities, which in turn boost their daily income.  Also, many rural people residing in the Kombos have begun returning to their native areas, in effect, easing up congestion in the Greater Banjul Area.

Just recently, President Jammeh announced the energy ‘Marshal Plan’ for Western Region, a project that is expected to electrify every hamlet in the region; from Kartong to Kalagi.  When implemented, The Gambia will join a group of a few third world nations that provide electricity to nearly 95 percent of their population. Now what does this mean for little Gambia? Well, the answer is simple: it will earn the country more investment opportunities, thus creating job opportunities for the youth folk, and other economic prospects.

As affordability of whatever service is being provided by government has always been a concern for the Gambian head of state, he has always managed to devise a way of reaching out to the masses. His latest announcement promising a possible reduction in electricity tariffs come 2009 is a clear indication of the place the majority of Gambians occupy in the heart of their beloved leader.