Dr Patrick Chang, Taiwanese Ambassador to The Gambia, on Wednesday inspected construction works of two feeder-road projects in the Western Region district of Foni Kansala.

Ambassador Chang inspected the Taiwanese government funded 17km road from President Jammeh’s home village of Kanilai to Mayok Village, where a high school is being constructed, with the support of Taiwan. Dr Chang also inspected works at the 14km-long road from Mayok Village to the neighbouring village of Saghajorr. Both roads interlink the three satellite villages.

The two projects are being carried out by the Overseas Engineering Cooperation Constructions company (OECC), alongside some Taiwanese construction experts.

Speaking to the Daily Observer, shortly after the hour-long inspections, the Chief of Taiwanese diplomacy in The Gambia expressed satisfaction with the progress at the project sites.

He then expounded on the benefits that the projects - started in June - would provide the three villages, saying "it will ensure more communication for the local inhabitants". He said the projects are crucial for the economic advancement of the villages, adding "this is good for agriculture and the flow of goods and services".

Ambassador Chang then expressed his hope that the US$5 million projects would be completed on time in order for them to be put at the disposal of the local inhabitants.

A senior official of the OECC told the Daily Observer that construction works are expected to be completed in February, next year. "We want to complete the Kanilai road first and then come down the other one. We are happy with the visit of the ambassador", he said.