President Adama Barrow pledged his Government’s support for the improvement and expansion of the Gam-Petroleum fuel storage facility in Mandinari during a surprise visit to the depot and other government institutions on Thursday, State House has said.
Commenting on the purpose of the visit, the Gambian Leader said it was to familiarize himself with the facility and the management, State House said in a statement.
The statement continued: “He added that the viability and security of the fuel depot is a matter of national security and priority hence it is managed and secured by Gambians.
“While on a conducted tour of the facility by the management team, President Barrow commented that it was critical to adopt a strategy with clearly outlined steps to secure the facility as a national entity.
“In line with his government’s policy to promote the Gambian private sector growth, President Barrow also encouraged Gambian Investors to invest in the petroleum industry to ensure a level playing field and competitive market rates in the industry.
“Responding to the Human Resource capacity concerns, the Gambian President revealed that there are ongoing plans for local and international training programmes for personnel on new and emerging technologies to operate and manage the multi-million dollar infrastructure effectively. He stated his commitment to this cause while urging the staff and management to be aware of illegal and unauthorised activities.
“On his immediate reaction to the visit, President Barrow noted that he has made observations that are key to the facility’s operation and that the presidency will collaborate with experts to map out protocols that will ensure more efficient management of the infrastructure.”
